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Photo ©: Schaaf

Photos archive Videos - Interviews and Action Cyclingnews Reader's Pics of 2005

Cycling photography for February 2006

Omloop van het Waasland-Kemzeke
Champbikx BMX Series #3
McLane Pacific
Sydney Track World Cup
Trust House Women's Tour
Milano-Torino
Oceania MTB championships
GP Lugano
Kuurne-Bruxelles-Kuurne
Omloop Het Volk
Tour of California
GP Chiasso
Revolution 12
Perth International GP
Australian DH series finals
Australian XC series finals
Classic Haribo
Australian Madison championship
Tour du Haut-Var
Volta ao Algarve
Trofeo Laigueglia
Vuelta Andalucía (Ruta Ciclista del Sol)
Lotto 6 Days
Grote Prijs de Eecloonaar
Tour Méditerranéen
Australian Senior Track Championships
Challenge Illes Balears
Superprestige, Hoogstraten
GP Costa degli Etruschi
KrawatenCross, Lille
Austral Wheelrace
Lampre-Fondital training
Etoile de Bessèges
Wildside
GP d'Ouverture La Marseillaise

Copyright notice: The photo's that appear here are all subject to copyright, and may not be reproduced in any form anywhere else without the owner's permission. Copies, either print or electronic, of the photographs can be requested by contacting the photographer in most cases, as email or website addresses are usually provided with the images. The exceptions are AFP photos, which are not available for individual sale.

Omloop van het Waasland-Kemzeke

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Images by Brecht Decaluwé/Cyclingnews.com

The winner last year Gorik Gardeyn (Unibet.com) talking with this year's winner, Niko Eeckhout (Chocolade Jacques)
Niko Eeckhout (Chocolade Jacques) wins the Omloop van het Waasland in Kemzeke
Koen Barbé (Chocolade Jacques) takes second ahead of Eichler and Boucher
German Markus Eichler (Regiostrom-Senges) finished third
The podium: Koen Barbe (2nd), Niko Eeckhout and happy son (1st), and Markus Eichler (3rd)

Champbikx BMX Series #3

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Images by Damien Breach/www.damianbreach.com

Jill Kintner from the USA was in town to take the win
Michael Fenwick, flying thru the air
Sitting down on the job
One of the support races with some close elbow rubbing action
Melissa Mankowski leading the pack
Too young to race the UCI round, Carlione Buchanan still showed who boss
Renne Junga showing off her World # 2 plate
Shutting down a pass from Wade Bootes
World # 2 Kyle Bennett from the USA signs some autographs in a break in action
Terry Scarr from Liverpool looking smooth through the rhythm section
Michael Fenwick appearing again
Leigh Darryl from the ACT in action
Kama Kazi riding like his namesake
Luke Madill all alone at the front
It wasn’t all good for Michael 'Tiger' Robinson - rolling to the finish after mishap
The UCI Elite Men's final into the first turn

McLane Pacific

Stage 2 - March 5: Foothills road race, 72/120 miles

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Images by Russ and Nancy Wright/www.abbiorca.com

Pro 1 Men's field on the last lap. The wind and pace has dwindled down the size of the pack.
Pro 1 lead group on last lap, and aerial view
Hayden Roulston (Health Net p.b. Maxxis) wins 2006 McLane Pacific Foothills Road Race
Pro 1/2 Women on lap 2
The Pro Women's podium: and Kim Anderson (T-Mobile Team, 3rd), Dotsie Bausch (Colavita Cooking Light, 1st) and Laura Van Gilder (TEAm Lipton, 2nd)
The Master 35+ 1/2/3 field
Steve Gregorious (Morgan Stanley) powers up a climb in the 35+ 1/2/3 race
The winner of the 45+ race
Winner of Category 2 Foothills Road Race
Winner of Category 2 Foothills Road Race

Stage 1 - March 4: Downtown Grand Prix, 32/40 miles

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Images by Russ and Nancy Wright/www.abbiorca.com

Erin Alders (McGuire Real Estate)
The Womens 1/2/pro pack at McLane Pacific Cycling Classic
Laura Charameda (McGuire Real Estate) winner of the 2006 McLane Pacific Cycling Classic women pro/1/2 race
Cat Malone (Webcor Cycling Team)
Laura Charameda (McGuire, left) beats T-Mobile and Victory Brewing to the line.
Category 2 pack rides by support bikes
Cal Giant Stawberries rider out in front of Cat 2 field
Winner of Category 2 race.
The newly formed McGuire's women's team is thrilled with Laura Charameda's victory.
Enthusiastic Jason Klikna fans
The men's pro/1 field lines up in downtown Merced.
Jackson Stewart (Kodak Gallery-Sierra Nevada)
Antonio Cruz leading the new team Toyota United Pro
Mike Jones (Health Net) followed by Mark McCormack , Colavita
The California Giant Strawberry team at the front of the pack.
Mike Jones (Health Net) celebrates his victory in the first NRC race of the year.
The podium - Mark McCormack (3rd), Mike Jones (1st) and Jackson Stewart (2nd).

Images by Mitch Friedman/www.mitchophoto.com

The Webcor women's team gets ready
Shimano’s Andy Stone was hard at work in the pits
Charm Breon (Cheerwine)shelps her teammate with a radio
Victory Brewing team warms up
Lipton Tea rider Liza Rachetto warms up her legs. You can tell it’s the first race of the year - no tan lines yet!
T-Mobile German rider Christina Becker finished 3rd overall
Alene Hetsman (Third Pillar racing) Lisa Rachetto (Lipton) and Erin Elders (McGuire) wait for the start of the Women Elite race
Dotsie Bausch (Colavita) and Nicole Friedman (Velo Bella- Kona) laugh at the start
First crash of the new year goes to Velo Bella-Kona rider Jennifer Joynt when she got hit from behind and her chain jammed up not 50 meters into the race
Sue Palmer-Komer of the Colavita team
The finish of the Women’s race
Dotsie and her puppy show off the new team car with her photo on it and shot by Mitch Friedman/www.mitchophoto.com
Men's winner Mike Jones
Laura Downey of the Dairyland team in the new Dairy capital of the USA
Hiroko Shimada of the Velo Bella team
A crash in the pro mens race
Toyota – United at the front of the pack

Milano-Torino

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Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Danilo Di Luca (Liquigas) grins on the start line
Ivan Basso (CSC) and fan club
Danilo Di Luca (Liquigas)
The finish sprint winds up
Igor Astarloa (Barloworld) takes the win
Igor Astarloa (Barloworld) hits the line first
Igor Astarloa (Barloworld) celebrates victory
Igor Astarloa (Barloworld) gives a victory salute
Igor Astarloa (Barloworld) is number one again!
Igor Astarloa (Barloworld) continues to celebrate
Igor Astarloa (Barloworld) gets congratulated
Ivan Basso (CSC) rolls home in 24th place
Igor Astarloa is congratulated by his Barloworld team-mates
Erik Zabel (Milram) wins the sprint for fifth
Igor Astarloa (Barloworld) smiles on the podium
All smiles from the top three.
Igor Astarloa (Barloworld) salutes the crowd from the podium
Igor Astarloa (Barloworld) realises he's going to need a bigger trophy cabinet for this one.
Mirko Celestino (Ita) Team Milram on the podium
Franco Pellizotti (Ita) Liquigas on the podium
The podium - Franco Pellizotti (Liquigas), Igor Astarloa (Barloworld) and Mirko Celestino (Team Milram)

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

Danilo Di Luca (Liquigas)
Stefano Garzelli (Liquigas)
Luca Paolini (Liquigas)
Igor Astarloa (Barloworld) wins Milan-Torino
Erik Zabel (Milram) takes fifth place
Igor Astarloa (Barloworld) on the podium
Igor Astarloa (Barloworld) looking very pleased, as you do.
The peloton and some splendid North Italian countryside.
The podium
Flowers and waves from the podium
Erik Zabel (Milram)
Danilo Di Luca (Liquigas)
Ivan Basso (CSC)
Danilo Di Luca (Liquigas)
Ivan Basso (CSC)
Danilo Di Luca (Liquigas)
Danilo Di Luca (Liquigas)
Ruggero Marzoli (Lampre-Fondital) gets a bottle
Erik Zabel (Milram)
The peloton rolls through the countryside
Christian Murro (Ita) Team Tenax Salmilano
Luca Paolini (Ita) Liquigas
Christian Murro (Ita) Team Tenax Salmilano
Victor Hugo Pena Grisales (Col) Phonak Hearing Systems
Ivan Basso (CSC)
Blue skies over northern Italy
Liquigas and Milram make the pace
The peloton rolls through the countryside
Liquigas and Milram on the front again
Raivis Belohvosciks (Lat) Team Universal Caffe'-C.B. Immobiliare
Roberto Petito (Ita) Team Tenax Salmilano
Roberto Petito (Ita) Team Tenax Salmilano
Charles Wegelius (GBr) Liquigas
Alessandro Spezialetti (Ita) Liquigas
Andrea Noe' (Ita) Liquigas
Luca Paolini (Liquigas) gets some directions from a TV cameraman
Leonardo Bertagnolli (Cofidis)
Raffaele Illiano (Selle Italia-Serramenti Diquigiovanni)
Andrea Tonti (Acqua Sapone)
Stefano Garzelli (Liquigas)
Ruslan Pidgornyy (Team Tenax Salmilano)
Ruslan Pidgornyy (Team Tenax Salmilano)
Franco Pellizotti (Liquigas)
Mauricio Soler (Acqua Sapone)
Ruslan Pidgornyy (Team Tenax Salmilano)
Igor Astarloa (Barloworld)

Oceania MTB championships

Day 3 - March 5: Downhill

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Images by Mikkeli Godfree/Cyclingnews.com

Mick Hannah in Friday’s practice – boosting the last jump.
Sam Blenkinsop – doing the same as Hannah.
Amy Laird pinning the seeding run.
Scarlett Hagen in seeding.
World Cup Champion Tracy Moseley with her eyes on the prize.
Adam Smithson representing for the Aussies.
Sam Hill in the seeding run – foxing or pinning?
Justin Leov ast and low.
Yannick Billot from New Caledonia on the boost.
Cedric Gracia piloting his new Commencal.
Legendary 4X course designer Glen Jacobs talks to Tony Moore on the mic
Going long on the big jump before the finish.
James Maltman from Australia in the final – 8th in the end.
Tracey Hannah – 17 years old and getting faster by the year.
Scarlett Hagen low and pro on her way to fourth.
Sabrina Jonnier unhappy with second but looking forward.
Vanessa Quinn on her way to the win by over three seconds.
Cameron Cole winning the junior category in a time that would have put him fourth in elite.
Another young superstar Samuel Blenkinsop – second in juniors in a time that would have put him 5th in elite.
Justin Havukainen looking quick but 19th in the end.
Current junior World Champion Amiel Cavalier would end up 9th on the day continuing his great transition up to the elite category.
New Zealand superstar John Kirkcaldie ended up tenth after a fall.
Justin Leov always smooth and 8th in the end.
Cedric Gracia in a different outfit but fast as hell only half a second slower than Hill.
Sam Hill loose as usual while attempting to knock of Barel but it was not to be.
Fabien Barel with an awkward style but not lacking in the speed department, beating hill by over a second and a half.
Fastest qualifier Mick Hannah ended up fourth.

Day 2 - March 4: Cross-country

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Images by Mikkeli Godfree/Cyclingnews.com

A sport rider crests the climb having started at the lake-level.
Kashi Leuchs warming up on the climb.
John Kirkcaldie zipping through the pits to do a head-cam run.
U23 star Clinton Avery warming up before the start.
Aussie ladies Dellys Starr and Emma Colson catch up before the start.
Aussie hopeful Chris Jongewaard looking pensive before the start.
Leuchs comfortable in front of a home crowd.
International star Geoff Kabush representing for the Kanucks.
“Are you looking at me?” – Australian National Champion Sid Taberlay ready to race.
Avery ready to start.
(L to R) McConnell, Taberlay, Leuchs and Kabush chase Jongewaard out of the start loop and up the first climb.
Shinobu Noguchi (red helmet) from Japan in the thick of the action at the start.
Tory Thomas looking strong on the first lap.
Myra Moller (Cook Islands) would end up third in the U23 category.
Taberlay on the hunt – leading the race early on.
Leuchs in hot pursuit but shadowed by Taberlay’s Aussie teammate Jongewaard.
Dan McConnell rode strongly in the early stages with eventual U23 winner Shaun Lewis.
Michael Northcott negotiates the trees.
Noguchi riding strongly.
Kabush taking control of the race up the climb.
Thomas in the hunt for the top 5.
Rosara Joseph was absolutely untouchable today and would win by 2mins in the end.
Fellow New Zealander Annika Smail slotted into second spot.
Kiara Bisaro rode strongly for Canada to take third.
Up close and personal with Kabush.
Jongewaard showing the strain of an early effort.
U23 winner Lewis on the rivet.
Avery threw everything at the course but came up 51sec short of Lewis.
Robyn Wong took fourth spot making three New Zealanders in the top 4.
Murray Spink finishing fast to grab 5th spot.
Australian National Champion Starr ended up 7th.
Leuchs rolling over the line 1:31 after Kabush.
Leuchs had done enough however to win the Oceania Championship for which Kabush was not eligible.
Kabush played the race cool as he always does and came away with the win.
Lewis forgot his sponsor’s hat and was the victim of guerrilla marketing after the race.
The women’s podium - ( L to R) Wong, Smail, Joseph, Bisaro and Thomas.
The men’s podium - (L to R) Jgewaard, Leuchs, Kabush, Taberlay and Spink.
Will the real Geoff Kabush please stand up…Kabush and Chris “Copy Chops” Winn compare side-burns.

Day 1 - March 3: Four-cross

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Images by Mikkeli Godfree/Cyclingnews.com

Volcanic Air Safaris dropped by the track to help film the race.
NZ legend John Kirkcaldie inspects the first straight.
Australia’s only entrant Luke Strom (second from right) struggled against a top quality local field.
Carnage on the second berm.
The Red Bull wall-ride was a compulsory part of the course and made for some spectacular riding.
Welcome to New Zealand – sun, rain and smiles all at the same time.
...and rainbows to boot.
Gracia on the charge showing amazing dominance in the All-comer’s race.
An all-local heat with style.
Course designer Jeff Carter and James Dodds (middle left and right) watch the fruits of their labour.
Tom Holland gets the jump on Kirkcaldie in the All-comer’s semis.
Trouble on the first berm.
Gracia doing what he does best – laying down style.
Kirkcaldie keeping it low and fast.
Spectators on the hill.
Kirkcaldie taking out the B-final in the All-comer’s event.
Gracia again, winning the final.
…and the celebrations.

GP Lugano

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Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Racing through Lugano
Quick.Step getting ready to set up Bettini
Quick.Step leading out Bettini
Quick.Step leading out Bettini
Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) follows his teammates
Plenty of time for Bettini to celebrate
Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) wins the GP Lugano
Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) wins the GP Lugano
Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) celebrates after crossing the line
Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) savours victory
Kirchen (L) and Kuchynski (R) sprinting for second place
Kirchen and Kuchynski use each other for support
Kirchen and Kuchynski sort it out
Kim Kirchen (T-Mobile) after the finish
Kim Kirchen (T-Mobile) was second on the day
Aliaksandr Kuchynski (Ceramiche Flaminia) finished third
Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) after winning his second race of the season
Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) shows relief
Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) salutes from the podium
Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) on the podium
The podium - Kim Kirchen (T-Mobile), Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) and Aliaksandr Kuchynski (Ceramiche Flaminia)

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

Christophe Le Mevel (Crédit Agricole) is rugged up and ready to go.
Lampre-Fondital stays warm in the team van before the start.
Pietro Caucchioli (Crédit Agricole) and Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) at the start
Niklas Axelsson (Selle Italia - Serramenti Diquigiovanni)
Sergio Barbero (Selle Italia - Serramenti Diquigiovanni)
Gene Bates (LPR)
Francesco Bellotti (Crédit Agricole)
Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) rolls out in a very frosty Swiss weekend.
Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) after shedding a few layers later in teh race
Pietro Caucchioli (Crédit Agricole) makes the pace
Look out! There are llamas! Er... cyclists!
Daniele De Paoli (LPR)
Peter Mazur (Saunier Duval - Prodir)
Pierrick Fedrigo (Bouygues Telecom) and David Moncoutié (Cofidis)
Oliver Zaugg (Saunier Duval - Prodir)
Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) celebrates his win
Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) looks satisfied after the race
Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) - winners are grinners!
Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) joking on the podium
Paolo's seat.

GP Chiasso

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Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Wielinga and Chavanel motoring up another climb
Pietro Caucchioli (Credit Agricole) on the front
Linus Gerdemann (T-Mobile) follows a wheel
Serhiy Honchar (T-Mobile) in action
Chavanel and Wielinga battle the rain
Remmert Wielinga (Quick.Step) in action
Sylvain Chavanel (Cofidis) in action
Chavanel and Wielinga the men of the day
Plenty of colour on a drab day
Twisting through Chiasso
The peloton comes up a climb
Credit Agricole driving the chase
Thomas Voeckler (Bouygues) sitting pretty
Sylvain Chavanel (Cofidis) driving the break
Igor Astarloa (Barloworld) zips up
Davide Moncoutie (Cofidis) in the thick of it
Filippo Simeoni (Naturino) in the wet
Wielinga and Chavanel still away
Paolo Bettini (Quick.Step) with the training gear on
Up we go again
Igor Astarloa (Barloworld) puts the power down
Remmert Wielinga (Quick.Step)
Remmert Wielinga (Quick.Step) and Sylvain Chavanel (Cofidis)
Credit Agricole takes the front
Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) - none more golden.
The peloton winds through narrow Swiss roads
Leonardo Bertagnolli (Cofidis) and Davide Rebellin (Gerolsteiner)
Davide Rebellin (Gerolsteiner)
Remmert Wielinga (Quick.Step) working hard on the way to teh win.
Igor Astarloa (Barloworld)
Remmert Wielinga (Quick.Step) wins the GP Chiasso
Remmert Wielinga (Quick.Step) celebrates victory
Remmert Wielinga (Quick.Step) celebrates victory
Davide Rebellin (Gerolsteiner) rolls home after a very grubby day at the office
Davide Rebellin (Gerolsteiner) looking muddy
Remmert Wielinga (Quick.Step) muddied, but victorious
Davide Rebellin (Gerolsteiner) afterwards
Remmert Wielinga (Quick.Step) on the podium
The podium - Davide Rebellin (Gerolsteiner), Remmert Wielinga (Quick.Step) and Leonardo Bertagnolli (Cofidis)

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

The broom wagon, in case you hadn't guessed...
Igor Astarloa (Barloworld) looking satisfied with himself.
Leonardo Bertagnolli (Cofidis) finished third.
Paolo Bettini (Quick.Step) wishing he were somewhere else.
The shoes of Olympic champion Paolo Bettini (Quick.Step).
Paolo Bettini (Quick.Step) looking pensive.
British rider Jamie Burrow.
Eros Capecchi (Liquigas-Bianchi) is one tall boy!
Pietro Caucchioli (Credit Agricole) drives his team's train.
The peloton snake their way through Chiasso's narrow roads.
The peloton make their way through the sleepy village of Chiasso.
A muddied Gerolsteiner rider comes into the finish.
Serhiy Honchar (T-Mobile) looking his usual aggressive self.
South African Rodney Green (Barloworld) rides through a snow-lined road.
Kim Kirchen (T-Mobile) won't be riding at his best until later in the season.
Davide Rebellin (Gerolsteiner) tried to chase down lone escapee Remmert Wielinga (Quick.Step), but only managed second.
Christophe Rinero (Saunier Duval-Prodir) looks satisfied with his effort.
Patrik Sinkewitz (T-Mobile) stretches his legs.
Remmert Wielinga (Quick.Step) scores the biggest win of his career, and the emotion shows.
Dirty though delighted - Remmert Wielinga (Quick.Step) looking thoroughly satisfied.
The podium - (L to R) Davide Rebellin (Gerolsteiner, 2nd), Remmert Wielinga (Quick.Step, 1st) and Leonardo Bertagnolli (Cofidis, 3rd).

Revolution #12

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Images by Nick Rosenthal/fatnick.com

Danish six-day star Jimmi Madsen in action at Revolution 12
Belgium's Iljo Keisse has won three six-day races this season
Josh Hargreaves in sprint action at Manchester
German sprinter Daniel Racklitz goes hard at Revolution 12
Swiss star Franco Marvulli picked up a couple of wins at Revolution 12
Tony Gibb celebrates victory in the points race
Young sprinter Christian Lyte battles it out with a German rider
Jason Kenny was the winner of the junior sprint competition at Revolution 12
Denmark's Marc Hester was impressively quick in the flying kilometre time trial
Franco Marvulli celebrates victory in the 1 km time trial
Lucy Aires receives a bouquet for winning one of the Future Stars races
Jimmi Madsen has announced his retirement and the riders said farewell to him in style
The Future Stars boys in bunch race action
Learning the ropes: Matt Brammeier takes a handsling from experienced Swiss six-day rider Alex Aeschbach
James Taylor and Tony Gibb are the British Madison champions
Marc Hester throws Jimmi Madsen (red helmet) into the race
Top dogs: Chris Newton gives Franco Marvulli a big handsling
Ben Hallam shows the strain as he slings James Notley into the race
Grimacing... Tony Gibb has wonderful facial expressions in a Madison
Big Tony Gibb gives James Taylor a sling into the race, grimacing with the effort
Franco Marvulli tries to get round Iljo Keisse as they battle for points in the Madison race
Best of friends - Iljo Keisse gives Matt Gilmore a...ummm...handsling!
Matt Gilmore is always a welcome visitor in Manchester
Franco Marvulli and Chris Newton celebrate their victory in the Madison. Notice the bandage on Newton's left wrist after his crash in the Tour of Langkawi

Perth International GP

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Images by Stewart Stockdale

Matt Crampton (England)
Mario Librizio (Scotland)
Matt Cramton and Jason Queally get ready to ride
Mario Librizio (Scotland) is a picture of concentration
Ryan Bayley (WA) looks ready to rip into the competition
Scott Sunderland (WA) looks determined to do well against Ryan Bayley
Kerrie Meares (Qld) sits comfortably at the back of the pack
Chloe Macpherson sits on the front in the women's keirin
Chloe Macpherson (Qld) guns it against Uricca Leow Huay Sin (Malaysia)
Anna Meares (Qld) looks focussed ahead of sister Kerrie
Kerrie and Anna Meares duel in the keirin
The men's points race
Duane Johansen (WA) sits comfortably mid-pack
Todd Francis (WA) gets amongst it
Carlo Barrendilla (WA) rides next to Travis Meyer
Travis Meyer (WA) looks across to teammate Peter Dawson
Travis Meyer (WA) is a picture of speed
Peter Dawson (WA) is loving it in Perth
Peter Dawson (WA) wins the men’s elimination
Kerrie Meares sits behind the derny in the keirin
Kerrie Meares (Qld) gets out of the saddle and gives it some
Kerrie Meares at the front of the women's keirin field
Jennie Reed (USA) gets ready to celebrate a win in the women's keirin
Cameron Meyer (WA) stays nice and close to the derny
Cameron Meyer (WA) concentrates hard on staying as close as possible to the derny
Ryan Bayley (WA) is ready to rumble
Ryan Bayley wins the men's keirin
Carlo Barrendilla (WA) looks good in the men's points race
Kerrie Meares controls proceedings at the front of the women's keirin field
Duane Johansen (WA) looking good
The WA boys were on song with Duane Johansen, Peter Dawson and Travis Meyer performing well in the endurance events
Cameron Meyer (WA) was one of the standout riders of the meet
Duane Johansen (WA) grimaces with the effort

Australian XC series finals

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Images by Mikkeli Godfree/Cyclingnews.com

Karen Alcock through the snow-gums.
Dellys Starr was impressive from start to finish.
Tory Thomas smooth as usual.
Dellys Starr saluting.
Murray Spink leads Matt Fleming on lap one.
Al Farley at the start of lap two looking less than comfortable.
Dylan ‘I don’t use brakes’ Cooper on the charge.
Spink securing second overall in the National Series
Dylan Cooper for the second time in two years.
Cooper talks to race commentator Colin Battersby.
Jongewaard looks on nursing a bandaged knee.
Al Farley laid it all on the line but it didn’t come off.
Sid Taberlay’s bike - ‘sans’ rotor.
Cam Winn has left the building.
Taberlay contemplates what could have been.

Images by Peter Knight

Sid Taberlay with two brakes

Australian DH series finals

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Images by Mikkeli Godfree/Cyclingnews.com

Jared Rando - a happy camper with the National Series win.
Liam Panozzo and Amiel Cavalier - bloody fast juniors.
Jared Rando pinning it in qualifying.
Sam Hill leaning it over in qualifying.
Miles Mead stepped up into 5th in the final.
Jarl Jensen flat to the boards.
James McMillan with the rear wheel flapping.
Getting jacked in the berm.
Sabrina Jonnier with her eyes on the prize.
Claire Whiteman on the hunt.
James Maltman doing what he does best.
This is how to pin a corner.
Michael Kearton with wide eyes.
Liam Panozzo leaning it over.
Joel Panozzo trying to keep up with his younger brother.
Amiel Cavalier was impressive.
Sam Hill taking the win in fine style.

Classic Haribo

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Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Arnaud Coyot (Cofidis, L) beats Thor Hushovd (Credit Agricole, R) to win the Classic Haribo
Arnaud Coyot (Cofidis) after crossing the line
Mauro Facci (Barloworld) wins the sprint for 3rd
Arnaud Coyot (Cofidis) on the podium with his trophy

Australian Madison championship

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Images by Shane Goss/www.licoricegallery.com

The derny paces riders around Joe Ciavola Velodrome and the bar is now open to patrons
Chris Sutton (Locker Group) now with the Cofidis pro-team in Europe takes on-board refreshments before the start of the madison
Simon Clarke (Jayco-Giant) lead the field early into the 200 lap Australian Madison Championship race
The recently named Joe Ciavola Velodrome in Melbourne was the scene for the 2006 Australian Madison Championships
Miles Olman slings partner Simon Clarke from the Jayco-Giant team into the action during the madison championships
Riders swing round beneath the scoreboard which shows two teams starting to open a gap on the rest
Riders on the back straight as team managers and handlers with spares watch on
Victorian Simon Clarke (Jayco-Giant) powers towards a sprint during the madison
Commentators Stewart Doyle (L) and Matt Keenan call the action in the background whilst judges keep track of the action
Tasmanian Matt Goss (Locker Group) partnered Chris Sutton (NSW) in the madison and they were considered one of the main chances to take the title
Grant Irwin (Vero Insurance) sneaks ahead of Richard England (VIS) to take some sprint points during the race
Chris Sutton (Locker Group) from New South Wales partnered Chris Pascoe to win the event last year and was riding strongly to defend his crown
Miles Olman (Jayco-Giant, L) heads for more sprint points as Richard England throws VIS team-mate Sean Finning into the action
Sean Finning (L) hands VIS team-mate Richard England the reins during the Australian Madison Championships in Melbourne
Jayco-Giant team-mates Miles Olman (L) and Simon Clarke combine on their way towards winning the 2006 Australian Madison Championships
Simon Clarke (L) from Victoria and Queenslander Miles Olman riding for the Jayco-Giant team take out the 2006 Australian Madison Championships in Melbourne
Simon Clarke (L) and Miles Olman from the Jayco-Giant team discuss their winning ride on the way to the presentations
The Fitzies: Peter Fitzpatrick (L) and Steve Fitzpatrick rode strongly for the NSW Institute of Sport into third place
Victorian Institute of Sport team-mates Sean Finning (L) and Richard England, second in the titles and always provide stiff opposition on the track
The final podium - (L-R): Sean Finning-Richard England (Victorian Institute of Sport,2nd), Simon Clarke-Miles Olman (Jayco-Giant,1st), and Peter Fitzpatrick-Steve Fitzpatrick (NSW Institute of Sport,3rd)
Gold medal winners Simon Clarke (L) and Miles Olman chat with friends and supporters in the crowd after the race
Miles Olman (L) and Simon Clarke the 2006 Australian Madison Champions at the Joe Ciavola Velodrome in Melbourne

Images by CJ Farquharson/WomensCycling.net

Trevor Griffiths glances right to check his lead in the M17 motor pace sprint
Tabatha Cole and Monique Hanley "in the pink" in the women's scratch race
Monique Hanley takes the scratch race ahead of Brian James and Michelle King
Tabatha Cole waits on the 95m mark for her pusher in the handicap race
Michelle King takes the handicap race from Esther Pugh-Uren and Nicole Holt
Mark French, Josiah Ng and Simon Clarke take the bell in the keirin final
The women wait for the derny in the Reuters Invitational keirin race
Monique Hanley wins the keirin from Nicole Holt and Esther Pugh-Uren
Australian national road race champion, Kate Bates was in town, prior to the Geelong Tour' s start on Tuesday
Bronze medallists in the keirin, the Fitzpatrick brothers
Madison action in finishing order, Championship race: Miles Olman, Richard England and a Fitzpatrick brother
"Standing Room only" around the track perimeter and in the infield bar
Miles Olman leads Sean Finning
Michael Ford and team-mate, Tim Decker worked hard in the Championship race
Eventual champions Simon Clarke and Miles Olman changeover
As the bell is rung, the crash occurs
Riders take evasive action
The newly presented national Madison champions take their place on the podium
"Overjoyed" - Olman and Clarke
Miles Olman listens to Simon Clarke's version of events in the post race interview
Simon Clarke takes a quick seat on the podium whilst waiting to give his interview

Tour du Haut-Var

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Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Thomas Voeckler (Bouygues) back in action
Laurent Brochard (Bouygues) in the thick of things
Cofidis executing the set move
Pasamontes, Ten Dam and Veuchelen tried to escape later in the race
Pasamontes, Ten Dam and Veuchelen pass a spectator's car
Leonardo Bertagnolli (Cofidis) wins the 38th Tour du Haut Var
Leonardo Bertagnolli (Cofidis) celebrates
Pietro Caucchioli (Credit Agricole) beats Jurgen van de Walle (Quick.Step) for second
Leonardo Bertagnolli (Cofidis) and Pietro Caucchioli congratulate each other
Leonardo Bertagnolli (Cofidis) signals victory
Leonardo Bertagnolli (Cofidis) is pretty happy with his trophy
The podium (L to R): Pietro Caucchioli (2nd), Leonardo Bertagnolli (1st) and Jurgen van de Walle (3rd)

Volta ao Algarve

Stage 5 - February 19: V.R. San Antonio - Alto De Malhao , 183.4 km

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Images by João Dias

Maia Milaneza's riders Pedro Cardoso, Afonso Azevedo and Pedro Andrade before the start
The start at Vila Real de Santo António
Sérgio Ribeiro (Barbot-Halcon) at Portela do Barranco KOM
Jorge Torre (Paredes) at Portela do Barranco KOM
José Sousa (Vitória ASC) at Portela do Barranco KOM
Stefan Schreck (T-Mobile) at Portela do Barranco
João Cabreira (Maia-Milaneza) at Alto do Malhão
Robert Gesink (Rabobank) arriving at Malhão
Another group arriving led by Gert Steegmans (Davitamon) and André Vital (Madeinox)
Jose Luis Rubiera (Discovery) leads a group home
...And another group

Stage 4 - February 18: Lagoa - Portimao , 174.5 km

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Images by João Dias

Bruno Neves (Madeinox) before the start
The peloton waiting for the start
The early break by Pedro Hermida (Imoholding) and Gustavo Rodriguez (Barbot-Halcon)
The peloton passing Odiaxere
The peloton passing Odiaxere
Pedro Hermida (Imoholding) and Gustavo Rodriguez (Barbot-Halcon) before the third KOM climb
The peloton on the last KOM
The peloton on the last KOM
Virgilio Santos (Carvalhelhos Boavista)
André Cardoso (Paredes)
Carlos da Cruz (Fd Jeux), Pedro Andrade (Maia-Milaneza) and Helder Miranda (Riberalves)
César Pinto (Imoholding)
The peloton on the last KOM
The final sprint in Portimão
The final sprint in Portimão
José Azevedo (Discovery) finishing in the peloton

Stage 3 - February 17: Castro Marin - Faro, 198 km

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Images by João Dias

Madeinox's Claudio Faria and Barbot's Sérgio Ribeiro with Barbot crew
The start in Castro Marim
The peloton passing Odeleite
The peloton passing Odeleite
The magnificent view over Olhão and Fuzeta from Cerro de S. Miguel (last KOM)
The magnificent view over Olhão and Fuzeta from Cerro de S. Miguel (last KOM)
The peloton approaching Cerro de S. Miguel
Unibet's Marco Serpellini
The peloton climbing Cerro de S. Miguel.
The peloton climbing Cerro de S. Miguel.
The peloton climbing Cerro de S. Miguel.
The peloton climbing Cerro de S. Miguel.
The peloton climbing Cerro de S. Miguel.
The peloton climbing Cerro de S. Miguel.
The peloton climbing Cerro de S. Miguel.
The peloton climbing Cerro de S. Miguel.

Stage 2 - February 16: Vila Do Bispo - Lagos, 173.5 km

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Images by João Dias

Joaquim Sampaio (Boavista) with his nephew Gilberto Sampaio (Paredes)
Joaquim Andrade (Riberalves)
José Azevedo (Discovery Channel)
Vitor Gamito remembers his time on the bike
Jussi Veikkanen (Francaise Des Jeux) leads the break heading up the KOM
Jussi Veikkanen leads Maarten Wynants (Chocolade Jacques-TSV) up the KOM climb
The four-rider break makes its way up the KOM climb
The main field left the break out front for a long time
Peter van Petegem (r) rides in the main field
Boavista's Manuel Cardoso saving energy for the final sprint
Maarten Wynants leads the four-rider break just before Albufeira
Discovery Channel on the front of the peloton
Race leader Marco Zanotti (r) sitting comfortably in the field with a unibet.com teammate
Barloworld riders do their thing in the peloton
Madeinox's Claudio Faria relaxes near Albufeira
The peloton make their way into Albufeira
Bernhard Eisel (Française Des Jeux) sprints for the win at the end of stage 2

Stage 1 - February 15: Albufeira - Tavira, 162.3 km

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Images by João Dias

Bruno Neves (Madeinox-Brica-Canel) before the stage start - he finished it in 15th
Sergio Sousa (Madeinox-Brica-Canel) looking pretty serious before the start
Nelson Victorino (Duja-Tavira) is all smiles before the start
Gerolsteiner's Davide Rebellin started his season in Portugal
Milaneza-Maias's Pedro Cardoso before the start of stage 1
It was a big colourful peloton that passed through Guia
The peloton passes through Guia on their way to Tavira
Patrik Sinkewitz and Christophe Mengin at the KOM climb
The peloton hit the KOM
It was tough work on the KOM climb
The main field put in the hard yards on the climb
Unibet.com have upped the ante in 2006
Mathieu Heijboer (Cofidis) seems to be enjoying himself
The sun was shining on a multitude of colours in Portugal
Sérgio Ribeiro (Barbot-Halcon) looks comfortable in the pack
Patrick Sinkewitz and Christophe Mengin still together in St Brás de Alportel
Barloworld control the peloton as it passes through St Brás de Alportel
Gerolsteiner weren't far behind Barloworld going through St Brás de Alportel
The peloton go through St Brás de Alportel
It was a reasonably hard day on stage 1 of the Volta ao Algarve
Teammates Costa Jorge Da (r) and César Quiterio ride together through St Brás de Alportel
The peloton still together through St Brás de Alportel

Trofeo Laigueglia

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

Alessandro Ballan (Lampre) rides hard out front of the small break
The small break that stayed away with Ballan leading Rinaldo Nocentini (Acqua & Sapone), Giovanni Visconti (Milram), Pietro Caucchioli (Credit Agricole) and Steven Cummings (Lanbouwkrediet)
Alessandro Ballan wins ahead of Englishman Steven Cummings
A big salute from Lampre's Alessandro Ballan
Everyone's smiling... Ballan with partner and little baby daughter after the finish
Ballan and DS Giuseppe Martinelli celebrate after the win
Leonardo Bertagnolli (Cofidis) doing it tough on his way to sixth
Leonardo Bertagnolli shows the strain of trying to catch the break
Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) looks like he's doing it a bit tough earlier in the race
Paolo Bettini rides ahead of Erik Zabel during the early part of the Trofeo Laigueglia
Alessandro Cortinovis (Milram) leads a teammate up the Passo del Balestrino
Giuliano Figueras (Lampre) corners comfortably
Vincenzo Nibali (Liquigas) gets out of the saddle
Vincenzo Nibali (Liquigas) pumps away on the Passo del Balestrino

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Alessandro Ballan (Lampre) wins ahead of Steven Cummings (Lanbouwkrediet)
A satisfied Ballan crosses the line in front of Steve Cummings
The field rides together early in the race
Yes, you're number one! Alessandro Ballan lets us know that he won
Ballan and baby make two on the podium
The podium (l-r): Steven Cummings (Lanbouwkrediet), Alessandro Ballan (Lampre) and Rinaldo Nocentini (Acqua & Sapone)
Alessandro Ballan (Lampre) looking strong on the Passo del Balestrino
Splitting it up...Alessandro Ballan and Pietro Caucchioli ride together in front of the break
Vincenzo Nibali and Paolo Bettini ride together as the field splits up
Pietro Caucchioli (Credit Agricole) rides ahead of Leonardo Bertagnolli (Cofidis)

Vuelta Andalucía (Ruta Ciclista del Sol)

Stage 5 - February 16: Olvera - Sevilla, 172.8 km

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Images by Luc Claessen/www.ctm-images.com

Frank Vandenbroucke (unibet.com) almost looks sharp again
Maarten den Bakker in his new Milram outfit
Oscar Freire (Rabobank) is still finding his feet after a long layoff
Leif Hoste (Discovery) on his way to the start
Cheers, Roger! Roger Hammond enjoys a morning short black
Stijn Devolder (Discovery) before the stage start
Belgian champ Serge Baguet (Quickstep-Davitamon) is pretty relaxed before the start
Kevin Hulsmans and Tom Boonen get ready for the start in Olvera
Yet another trophy for Tom Boonen
Erik Dekker and Leif Hoste worked well together in their two-man break
Quickstep and Milram chased hard in the final kilometres
A royal sprint on the Avenida Kansas City in Sevilla
And the prince gets it... as Tom Boonen beats Alessandro Petacchi in Sevilla
Boonen greets his teammates after the win
The world champion is always grateful for good teamwork
Tom Boonen is all smiles after winning in Sevilla
Tom Boonen on the podium after his stage win in Sevilla
Now that's cool... as Tom Boonen gets a pair of kisses on the podium
Cheer up, you won... Carlos Garcia Quesada on the podium as the Ruta del Sol overall winner

Stage 4 - February 15: Ecija - Ronda, 162.1 km

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Images by Ed Tarwinski

There was enough sun in Ronda to warrant an umbrella
Petacchi hits the line ahead of Tom Boonen for the second consecutive day
Iñaki Isasi and Luis Pasamontes finish in sixth and seventh, with Rodrigo García in eighth
Roger Hammond (Discovery Channel) finishes with the peloton
Oscar Freire (Rabobank, r) finishes another hard day
Alessandro Petacchi on the podium after another stage win
The team bus seems to have forgotten this guy
Pedro Luis Marichalar is in the Meta Volantes jersey on the podium
Rodrigo García Rena is the Combined classification leader
Overall leader Carlos García Quesada is a lucky boy indeed!
Una Chica Guapísima
We'll skip the siesta today and watch some bike racing instead
¡Olé! And ain't it the truth!?
This Andalucía Paul Versan team bike is ready to go

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

Food of champions on your birthday! Oscar Freire accepts some birthday cake - Happy Birthday Oscar!
Petacchi gets win number 3 in '06 and his second against Boonen this year
He loves it! Alessandro Petacchi in a traditional hat with a traditional kiss

Images by Luc Claessen/www.ctm-images.com

Max Van Heeswijk (Discovery Channel) gets ready for the start
Tom Boonen (Quick Step) receives a trophy (possibly for being the coolest rider there) before the start
Oscar Freire celebrates his birthday...the big three-zero for the Rabo sprinter
Roger Hammond (Discovery Channel) looks relaxed before the start
Alessandro Petacchi (Milram) has shown good form so far this year
Erik Dekker (Rabobank) with a big smile ahead of the stage start
Guido Trenti (Quick Step) smiling for a kiss
Tom Boonen loves it! The attention that comes before a stage start isn't toooo bad...
Tommy loves ya, baby! This one goes out to all the female bike fans...
The town mayor with Boonen and they're ready to start
The peloton leaves the start as the sun begins to wake up
Guido Trenti rides comfortably in the group
Christophe Agnolutto (Agritubel) gets out of the saddle
The Milram boys have been very active in races so far in 2006
Baden Cooke (unibet.com) looks strong
Óscar García-Casarrubios (Relax-GAM)
Tom Boonen looks comfortable during stage 4
Erik Dekker (Rabobank) keeps his eyes on the prize during stage 4
Erik Dekker (Rabobank) near the back of the field
Alessandro Petacchi takes the win ahead of Tom Boonen
Petacchi looks good in '06 with his second win in a row
Alessandro Petacchi (Milram) on the podium after stage 4
Carlos Garcia Quesada (Unibet.com) leads the Ruta del Sol overall

Stage 1 - February 12: Antequera - Otura, 161.4 km

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Images by Ed Tarwinski

Five climbs today
Saunier Duval's team car - surely there's room for a couple more bikes on teh hood...
Kevin Hulsman & Tom Boonen sign on.
Quick.Step is presented to the fans.
Tom Boonen (Quick.Step) has really mastered the Cipollini 'stop shaving three days before the race' technique.
You'd grin too
Andreas Klier (T-Mobile) ready for the start
Rolling up to the start...
Ruben Plaza and Manuel Ortega wait for the start
This ain't the time to Relax
It's show time!
Built for speed...
Looking cool.
And they're off!
The Andalucia team car at the start of a good day for the Spanish Pro Continental squad.

Lotto 6 Days

Race 1 - February 9

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Images by Luc Claessen/www.ctm-images.com

Wouter Van Mechelen and Dimi de Fauw
Dimitri de Fauw at full speed
Youngster Kenny de Ketele
Derny action
The group
Matt Gilmore leading Tom Steels
Wouter Van Mechelen
Dimitri de Fauw
Tom Steels
De Fauw-Van Mechelen the supersprint winners
Marco Villa
Peter Schep grimaces
Gilmore ready for launch
Tom Steels behind the derny
Matt Gilmore on the derny
Steve Schets on the derny
Dany Stam on the derny
Dany Stam on the derny
Lars Teutenberg
Steven de Neef
Steve Schets

Images by Some Bloke/www.webaddress.com

Marco Villa

Grote Prijs de Eecloonaar

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Images by Brecht Decaluwé

Tom Meeusen finishes solo to win the juniors race
Dennis Vanendert finishes second in the juniors race
Jim Aernouts finishing third in the juniors race
The junior podium - Dennis Vanendert, Tom Meeusen, and Jim Aernouts
The Zimbabwe riders joke on the stage
All the national champions got flowers before the race
Sven Nijs (Rabobank) looking confident just before the race
Bart Wellens (Fidea) had the best start on a crowded track at Eeklo
Jonathan Page (Cervelo) had problems with his tires and finished out of the top-10
Sven Nijs, Sven Vanthourenhout and Niels Albert take on the barriers
Richard Groenendaal (Rabobank) had a tough race
Bart Wellens leads the group
Bart Wellens pushing hard
Sven Nijs finished solo to win the race
Niels Albert (Palmans-Sapim-Collstrop) finishing second
Bart Wellens thought he had won, but needed another lap
Sven Vanthourenhout (Rabobank) finished fourth
The podium - Niels Albert (Palmans-Sapim-Collstrop), Sven Nijs (Rabobank) and Bart Wellens (Fidea)

Tour Méditerranéen

Stage 6 - February 12: Sanremo - Sanremo, 111 km

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Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Elia Rigotto (Milram) wins stage 6 of the Tour Méditerranéen
Elia Rigotto on the podium as winner of the final stage of the Tour Méditerranéen
Get your hands in the air! Milram's Elia Rigotto celebrates on the line
Erik Zabel (r) congratulates teammate Elia Rigotto on a job well done
It's unbelieeeeevable... Elia Rigotto (Milram) contemplates his achievement
Rinaldo Nocentini and Pietro Caucchioli together before the start
Cyril Dessel and the gang of AG2R boys wait for the start
Murilo Fischer and Danilo Napolitano seem to be concentrating on something
Cyril Dessel (Ag2R Prevoyance) on the podium as overall winner of the Tour Méditerranéen
A contented Cyril Dessel gazes from the podium
Looking a little pensive before the start is Cyril Dessel (Ag2R Prevoyance)
He's wearing the Dolmio grin... Cyril Dessel (Ag2R Prevoyance) on the podium
Tour Méditerranéen jersey winners (l-r): Elia Rigotto (stage 6 winner), Cyril Dessel (overall), Thomas Lövkvist (young rider), Jimmy Engoulvent (mountains) and Ivan Gutierrez (points)

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

Cyril Dessel (Ag2R Prevoyance) looking happy to be on the podium in yellow
The stars on the arms of Elia Rigotto (Milram) are shooting on stage 6
The boy's got it! Elia Rigotto (Milram) wins stage 6
Thanks, Erik! Elia Rigotto is congratulated by Erik Zabel on his his first professional win
Elia Rigotto (Milram) takes his first professional win
Rigotto finished comfortably ahead of the pack
Respect, brother! Erik Zabel (r) congratulates teammate Elia Rigotto on his first win as a pro
You're a good boy, Elia... Zabel helped Rigotto in the finale, and it paid off

Stage 5 - February 11: La Londe Les Maures - Hyeres, 122 km

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Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Mathieu Ladagnous (Française Des Jeux) on the podium after his first win as a pro
You see, I'm allergic to flowers so I have to hold them out here. Mathieu Ladagnous on the podium
Got it! Mathieu Ladagnous (Française Des Jeux) gets the win in stage 5 of the Tour Méditerranéen
Mathieu Ladagnous (Française Des Jeux) wins his first race as a pro
Big smiles indeed for neo-rpo Mathieu Ladagnous
Cyril Dessel (Ag2R Prévoyance) remains in yellow after stage 5
The French version of Australian 'scrub' makes an interesting backdrop for racing
Mathieu Ladagnous (second from left) gets on the radio during stage 5
AG2R ride tempo for their man in yellow, Cyril Dessel
Cyril Dessel (Ag2R Prévoyance) looks comfortable next to Thomas Lövkvist (Française Des Jeux)
The break lines it up for the sprint as the main field are gaining on them
Erik Zabel (Milram) finished in 14th
Murilo Fischer (Naturino) came home in 20th
Cyril Dessel gets ready for another day in yellow
AG2R kept it together at the front in defence of the lead
A school of blue fish look after their yellow jersey
Cyril Dessel stayed protected throughout stage 5
Heading through the date palms near the finish of stage 5

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

AG2R were strong again today
AG2R control proceedings on a climb during stage 5
Mathieu gets there to take his first win as a pro
Mathieu Ladagnous was a clear winner of stage 5
The fisted salute comes out as Ladagnous gets the win
Daniele Bennati (Lampre) looks happy to be racing again
Murilo Fischer (Naturino) relaxes before the stage start
Ladagnous wins by a mile and doesn't he look ecstatic about it?
Mathieu Ladagnous (Française Des Jeux) rode well all day to take the win
Cristian Moreni (Cofidis) smiels for the camera before the start
My new ride... Danilo Napolitano (Lampre) wants to be a policeman when he grows up
The going was tough for Danilo Napolitano (Lampre)
Lampre DS Maurizio Piovani has a chat before the stage
Andrea Rossi (Acqua e Sapone) climbs during stage 5
Paul Martens (Skil Shimano) rides alone during stage 5
Neo-pro Mathieu Ladagnous is beaming after his stage win
Guess who made an appearance... Richard Virenque, seven-time KOM winner at the Tour de France
Lining it up in Hyeres near the finish
Ladagnous surges ahead of the pack near the finish
Erik Zabel in the pack during stage 5
Zabel wins the bunch sprint to take 14th
A smiling Zabel is a good Zabel

Stage 4 - February 10: St Laurent Du Var - Menton, 91 km

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Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Oh yeah! Cyril Dessel (Ag2R) gets a win for AG2R on home turf
Cyril Dessel (Ag2R) now wears the biggest grin in the field
Alexandre Botcharov and Rinaldo Nocentini battle it out for second
Pietro Caucchioli (Credit Agricole) doesn't look too impressed
Leonardo Bertagnolli (Cofidis) looks spent
Ivan Gutierrez (Caisse d'Epargne) finished in sixth
Paul Crake (Naturino) made it to the finish in seventh
Brad McGee and Thomas Lovkvist finish together for Francaise des Jeux
Mirko Celestino and Erik Zabel hanging about for Team Milram
Cyril Dessel (Ag2R) is happy on the podium
You talkin' to me? Ivan Gutierrez asks the question
Ivan Gutierrez (Caisse d'Epargne) crosses the line in sixth
Cyril Dessel (Ag2R) with a big smile on the podium
Dessel's a happy camper after taking stage 4 of the Tour Méditerranéen
Caisse d'Epargne DS Eusebio Unzue and Ivan Gutierrez (r) outside the team bus
Lucien Van Impe takes time out in the unibet.com team car
Cyril Dessel (Ag2R) on the podium in Menton

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

Leonardo Bertagnolli (Cofidis) concentrates hard on the corner
Matteo Carrara (Lampre) looks ahead while cornering
Hey, hey, hey today's my lucky day! Cyril Dessel (Ag2R) wins stage 4
Dessel takes the spoils of a good win on stage 4 of the Tour Méditerranéen
A solid win from AG2R's Cyril Dessel
Cyril Dessel (Ag2R) corners well on his way to the stage win
Cyril Dessel (Ag2R) in yellow after stage 4
Ivan Gutierrez (Caisse d'Epargne) puts his Pinarello through a corner on stage 4
Rinaldo Nocentini (Acqua Sapone) corners well on stage 4

Stage 3 - February 9: La Garde - La Garde TTT, 18 km

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Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Francaise des Jeux ended the stage in second
AG2R put in a solid effort to finish the stage in fifth
Caisse d'Epargne - Illes Balears were able to take third on the stage and keep their man in yellow
Credit Agricole were strong on their way to securing the stage win
Team Milram were a little off the pace today
Lampre finished in fourth
Credit Agricole on the podium after winning stage 3
Ivan Gutierrez (Caisse d'Epargne - Illes Balears) retained the race lead after stage 3
Cofidis had a mixed day with their ninth-placed finish in stage 3
Quick Step were a little bit off the pace in seventh
Agritubel did ok considering they're one of the smaller teams in the field
Unibet.com found it hard to get it together
Acqua & Sapone made another good push as they finished eighth on stage 3
Francaise des Jeux work well together on their way to second
The leader's yellow jersey sits among the Caisse d'Epargne ranks
Credit Agricole rocked as they won the stage
Team Milram string it out a bit as they failed to get well-organised

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

Caisse d'Epargne - Illes Balears bring it through a corner well
Cofidis were able to take a top-ten place on the stage
Credit Agricole kept it together really well to win the stage
Great formation from Credit Agricole
No gaps in that line for the Credit Agricole boys
Even through the corners the green machine stayed together better than anyone else
Ivan Gutierrez on the podium at the end of the second day
Gutierrez rides confidently on the front for his team
Lampre had a pretty good day with a fourth place in the TTT

Stage 2 - February 9: Berre L’Etang - Toulon Mt Faron, 112 km

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Images by Luc Claessen/www.ctm-images.com

It was tough going up Mont Faron today
David Loosli (Lampre) looked strong up Mont Faron
Remmert Wielinga (Quick Step) shows the strain a little
Rémy Di Gregorio (Francaise des Jeux) works hard up Monh Faron
Brad McGee (Francaise des Jeux) looks at home in the high stuff
Ivan Gutierrez (Caisse d'Epargne - Illes Balears) was focussed on the day's main climb
Staf Scheirlinckx (Cofidis) was calm on the climb
Martin Mares (Naturino) takes a drink heading up Mont Faron
Eric Berthou (Caisse d'Epargne - Illes Balears) finished the stage well down in the standings
Looking ahead to bigger things... Luca Ascani (Naturino) checks out the mountain
Despite it being winter Jimmy Engoulvent (Credit Agricole) found the going tough
A couple of Lampre boys pace each other up Mont Faron
The sun was out on Mont Faron which made the going a little tougher than expected
Stage 2 was never going to be easy and it showed
Team Miche put their best-placed man in 16th on the stage
It was hard work on stage 2
Erik Zabel (r) gets a tow up Mont Faron
Francaise des Jeux have brought a team with youth and experience for this race
The Skil-Shimano team are one of the outside chances at this race
Staf Scheirlinckx (Cofidis) climbs alone
Time for a chat and a drink as riders make their way up Mont Faron

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

The leading group makes its way up Mont Faron
Ivan Gutierrez was intent to make his mark on stage 2
Ivan Gutierrez wins stage 2 of the Tour Méditerranéen
Rinaldo Nocentini (Acqua Sapone) takes third on stage 2
Look at me... Ivan Gutierrez looks contented on the podium after stage 2
The group climbs together as they ascend Mont Faron
Mirko Celestino (Milram) shows the strain of climbing Mont Faron
Leonardo Bertagnolli (Cofidis) looks pretty happy after the stage
Brad McGee looks strong as he makes his way up Mont Faron with the group
Przemyslaw Niemec (Miche) gets out of the saddle up Mont Faron
Erik Zabel (Milram) finds a rhythm in the group
Ivan Gutierrez (Caisse d'Epargne - Illes Balears) won stage 2 of the Tour Méditerranéen
Danilo Napolitano (Lampre) finds the going tough after yesterday's win
The sun was well and truly out on the slopes of Mont Faron
The group rides tempo up Mont Faron

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

It was warmer than expected on Mont Faron
A break got away once the riders reached Mont Faron
Daniele Bennati (Lampre) takes a good hard look at the camera
Danilo Napolitano (Lampre) found that stage 2 was very different to stage 1

Stage 1 - February 8: Marseille - Marignane, 108 km

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Images by Luc Claessen/www.ctm-images.com

The Carrera bikes of the Androni Giocattoli - 3C Casalinghi team
Team Milram's Colnagos are ready to carry their boys to a stage win
The peloton climbs out of Marseille in the early part of stage 1
Sandy Casar (Francaise des Jeux) leads Cedric Vasseur (Quick Step)
The Lampre boys lead proceedings coming in the closing kilometres of stage 1
Oleksandr Kvachuk (Androni Giocattoli) looks comfortable later in stage 1
Casar and Vasseur ride together during stage 1
Caisse d'Epargne - Illes Balears pull together at the front of the main field
Showing the strain in the 'black train'
Danilo Napolitano (Lampre) wins stage 1 of the Tour Méditerranéen
Who's the man with the sauce? Me! Danilo Napolitano celebrates a win on stage 1
Napolitano wears the Dolmio grin after a win in Marignane
Danilo Napolitano (Lampre) on the podium after stage 1
Lucien Van Impe made an appearance with the unibet.com team

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Erik Zabel (Milram) corners confidently in the closing stages
Caisse d'Epargne - Illes Balears put themselves on the front near the finish
Danilo Napolitano (Lampre) gets himself into a good position for the sprint
Danilo Napolitano (Lampre) on the podium and looking pleased with himself
It was second today for the super-veteran, Erik Zabel
Waiting for the start as the sun tries to come out
Erik Zabel gets ready to go for the stage win
Well done, Danilo! Napolitano is congratulated by a teammate after the finish
Quick Step's Patrick Lefevere and Nick Nuyens together before the start
Daniele Bennati (l) and Erik Zabel get together before the stage start
In the leaders jersey after stage 1, is Danilo Napolitano

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

I'm bustin' a cap into the opposition with my immaculate sprint
Danilo Napolitano (Lampre) looks content on the podium
Check it, yeah! Danilo Napolitano (Lampre) practices a few new celebrations after taking DJ lessons
Napolitano (l) and Bennati (r) worked well together to take the stage today

Challenge Illes Balears

Stage 5 - February 9: Magalluf - Palmanova, 148.3 km

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Images by AFP Photo

David Bernabeu (Communidad Valenciana) was overall winner of the Challenge Illes Balears
Oh look, there's a peloton mummy... riders pass through the countryside during the last stage of Challenge Illes Balears
David Kopp (Gerolsteiner) wins stage 5 of Challenge Illes Balears
Yeeeeah - who's a happy boy then? David Kopp gets the win in Palmanova
It's all good. David Kopp on the podium in Palmanova

Stage 4 - February 8: Soller - Port De Soller, 150.6 km

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Images by AFP Photo

Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) gets his first win for the year
He's loving it! Paolo Bettini gets a kiss for his efforts
Big smiles for Paolo Bettini after taking the fourth stage of the Challenge Illes Balears
Climbing up Col de Soller during stage 4 of the Challenge Illes Balears

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

Paolo Bettini works hard on his way to the win
Paolo Bettini (Quick Step) wins stage 4 of the Challenge Illes Balears

Stage 3 - February 7: Pollença - Port De Pollença (Mirador), 149.6 km

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Images by AFP Photo

David Bernabeu (Comunidad Valenciana) wins stage 3 of the Challenge Illes Balears
A happy David Bernabeu on the podium, showing that Comunidad Valenciana can still win big races
Gilberto Simoni (Saunier Duval) signs more autographs as the locals enjoy their new Italian import
Now that's a green field! Riders pass through some extremely lush countryside on their way to Port De Pollenca
Alejandro Valverde (Caisse d'Epargne-Illes Balears) speaks with some little fans before the start

Stage 2 - February 6: Cala Millor - Cala Bona, 159.4 km

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Images by AFP Photo

Mirror, mirror...
Into the light - the peloton emerges from a tunnel
Isaac Galvez (Caisse d'Epargne-Illes Balears) wins the secodn stage of the Challenge Illes Balears, ahead of Robert Förster (Gerolsteiner) and Paolo Bettini (Quick Step-Innergetic)
Isaac Galvez (Caisse d'Epargne-Illes Balears) hoists the trophy for his second consecutive victory

Stage 1 - February 5: Palma - Palma, 100 km

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

Isaac Galvez (Caisse d'Epargne - Illes Balears) takes the win in Mallorca
Gilberto Simoni (Saunier Duval) is a happy camper in yellow
The Liquiguys stick together in Mallorca

Images by AFP Photo

Heading past the cathedral early in the race
Here we go again… past the cathedral
Isaac Galvez (Caisse d'Epargne - Illes Balears) was able to make up for last year with a win this year

Superprestige #7, Hoogstraten

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Images by Luc Claessen/www.ctm-images.com

Petr Dlask (AVB Asbestverwijdering) finished 19th at 2.35' from Nys
Enrico Franzoi (Lampre) was strong at the early race, finishing 9th
Sven Vanthourenhout (Rabobank) made the podium complete in 3th place
Tom Vannoppen (Collstrop) made an attack right after the start
Bart Wellens (Fidea) had problems with his back again today
Jan Verstraeten (Fidea) rode strongly for 7th place
Gerben de Knecht (Rabobank)
Another Rabobank talent - youngster Bart Aernouts
David Willemsens - the Belgian elite without contract champion
Richard Groenendael (Rabobank) was not in best shape today
Swiss rider Christian Heule
John Gadret (AG2R) from France
Enrico Franzoi leads the chase on Nys
Sven Nys (Rabobank) makes his move
Jonathan Page is getting better every week, with a nice 8th place today
The back of the new world champion
A second place for Erwin Vervecken (Fidea)
Peter Van Santvliet (Fidea) at full speed
Sven Nys (Rabobank) goes into the last lap
Sven Nys celebrates his 24th victory
The elite podium - Sven Nys (Rabobank, 1st), Erwin Vervecken (Fidea, 2nd) and Sven Vanthourenhout (Rabobank, 3rd)

GP Costa degli Etruschi

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

Ivan Quaranta before the start
Alessandro Petacchi makes sure everything is properly aligned
Alessandro Petacchi gets ready to race
Team Endeka ready to go
Alessandro Petacchi whizzes by
Danilo Napolitano (Lampre)
Daniele Bennati (Lampre)
Daniele Righi (Lampre)
Denis Bertolini (Acqua & Sapone)
Fabio Baldato (Tenax)
Mirco Lorenzetto leads Alessandro Petacchi
The race rolls through the Italian countryside
Daniele Pietropolli (Tenax)
Charly Wegelius and Liquigas attempt to take control
Alessandro Petacchi and Anna Chiara
Ouch
Concentration.
Alessandro Petacchi (Milram) kicks off the season with a win
Alessandro Petacchi celebrates
Alessandro Petacchi is congratulated by team-mate Alberto Ongarato
Fabio Sacchi (Milram) approves of his team-mate's win
The podium - Danilo Napolitano (Lampre-Caffita), Alessandro Petacchi (Team Milram), and Daniele Bennati (Lampre-Caffita)
Alessandro Petacchi on the podium. Take the money! Open the box!
Alessandro Petacchi unleashes the podium bubbly
Alessandro Petacchi relaxes after the race
Riccardo Ricco (Saunier Duval) after his first pro outing
Daniele Bennati (Lampre) wonders if he's left the gas on.

Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Alessandro Petacchi (Milram) at the start
Roberto Petito and Fabio Baldato (Tenax)
Team Milram
Alessandro Petacchi (Milram)
Team Milram
Przemyslaw Niemec (Miche) attacks
Przemyslaw Niemec tries to escape.
Charly Wegelius (Liquigas)
Charly Wegelius leads the bunch
Alessandro Ballan (Lampre)
Alessandro Petacchi leads on a descent
Meet me on the avenue.
Follow that car.
The peloton
Danilo Napolitano (Lampre)
The peloton strings out
Through the fields
Alessandro Petacchi zips up against the late winter chill
Alessandro Petacchi deep in the bunch
Team Barloworld to the front
Alessandro Petacchi
All together mid-race
The dash for the line
Alessandro Petacchi realises he's done it
Alessandro Petacchi starts to celebrate
Alessandro Petacchi claims his first win of the season.
Alessandro Petacchi
Alessandro Petacchi
Ouch
The podium - Danilo Napolitano (Lampre-Caffita), Alessandro Petacchi (Team Milram), and Daniele Bennati (Lampre-Caffita)
Alessandro Petacchi on the podium
Alessandro Petacchi starts to shake it up
Alessandro Petacchi is a very happy man
Alessandro Petacchi and Anna Chiara
Danilo Napolitano and Daniele Bennati (Lampre) after the race

Krawaten Cross, Lille

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Images by Luc Claessen/www.ctm-images.com

The elite race starts
Three champions do battle
Jan Verstraeten (Fidea)
Bart Wellens (Fidea)
Erwin Vervecken (Fidea)
Sven Nys (Rabobank)
Sven Nys (Rabobank)
Sven Nys (Rabobank)
Bart Aernouts (Rabobank)
Erwin Vervecken (Fidea) and Richard Groenendael (Rabobank)
Erwin Vervecken (Fidea) on the run
Radumir Simunek (Palmans-Sapim-Collstrop)
Richard Groenendael (Rabobank)
Luxemburg champ Jempy Drucker (Fidea)
Sven Vanthourenhout (Rabobank)
Sven Nys (Rabobank) takes the win
Erwin Vervecken (Fidea) finishes
The elite podium
Belgian champion Sanne Cant
Reza Ravenstein wins the women's race
The sprint for second place
The women's podium
Eddy Van Yzendoorn
Niels Albert powers past the pits
Zdenek Stybar (Fidea)
Zdenek Stybar (Fidea) picks his way through the sand
Zdenek Stybar (Fidea)
Niels Albert
Kevin Pauwels (Fidea)
Niels Albert (Palmans-Sapim-Collstrop) wins the under-23 race
Niels Albert gets a present
U23 world champ Zdenek Stybar (Fidea) and his manager
Zimbabwean riders have stuck around after the world's
The under 23 podium
Niels Albert and friends
Junior world champ Boy Van Poppel
Boy Van Poppel wins the junior race
The junior podium
The novices podium

Austral Wheelrace

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Images by Gary Newvine

Shane Perkins lines up in Sprint Derby. He will represent Australia in the Commonwealth Games
Christian Rivette rides in the scratch race
Troy Taylor drives the derny leading Luke Medhurst
Shane Kelly rides in an international field (note the Japanese rider above him)
Michael Burke who fell in a club race on Thursday is raring to go on Saturday night
Ryan Pontelandolfo gets a little massage before his race
The M17 scratch race field
Peter Johnstone wins the sprint in M17 scratch
The starter sends off the women in the 12 lap scratch race
The women wind it up
Livia Gluchowska wins ahead of a commonwealth games rider Kate Cullen
Sprint derby finals - Shane Kelly (top of track) will sneak past Shane Perkins, and Mark French in 11:08
Shane Kelly gives his thoughts on the race... These two are headed for the Commonwealth games
The M17 sprint derby begins
Trevor Griffiths wins in front of Peter Johnstone
The Banditos cycling fans get LOUD!!
Shane Kelly warms down after a heat
Rowan Geddes stages for his event while riders ZOOM past on the track
Mark French starts his Austral Wheel heat
Darren Young, Todd Wolksch and Shane Kelly start their heat from scratch
Shane Perkins does a BIG pull then drops out for which he will be DQ'd then fined for not making a sufficient effort
The top 4 from each heat advance to final
M17 motorpaced - Trevor Griffiths takes out the sprint
The Austral Wheel Race finals - scratch riders Shane Kelly, Darren Young, Todd Wilksch ride hard but never get on.
Dean Taylor is overjoyed at winning the 2006 Austral Wheel Race!!
and gets to heft a nice trophy
A nice trophy, yesterday
Our man Mal Sawford gets a word
Luke Medhurst rides in the elimination race
Brandon Schultz wins the elimination
Shane Kelly wins a keirin heat ahead of Hamish Taylor
Stuart Vaughn takes the first sprint of the points race - he will go on to win the race
The aces keirin race begins. A very fast field!
Speedy Shane Kelly wins in 11:26
The field rides by in the elimination race
This is where NOT to be in an elimination race
Tasmanian Darren Young takes the final event, a 25 lap scratch race
Darren Young collects his trophy for the race
Now for the long trip home

Images by CJ Farquharson/WomensCycling.net

Shane Kelly signs the shirt of one of the visiting Japanese team
Bunch action from the motorpace scratch race
Mark French and Shane Kelly - head to head in the sprint
Damion Drapac and Dean Taylor in the bunch in their scratch race
Physical racing at Vodafone tonight
Apryl Eppinger concentrates on the wheel of Jessica Berry
Jessica Berry takes the women's scratch race from Kate Cullen
Shane Kelly, Mark French and Todd Wilsch all accelerate off the banking
Dean Taylor is a very happy man after winning the Austral
Cyclists International presented a magnificent trophy for the Austral winner
Livia Gluchowska in action
Livia Gluchowska comfortably won the women's handicap race from 85 metres
Nicole Holt sprinted in to take second in the handicap race
Paul Healion from Ireland was active at the front of the Lance DeLuca Memorial Scratch - before his saddle's frame broke and he finished in the bunch
Tasmania's Darren Young takes the DeLuca race

Lampre-Fondital training

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

Cunego discusses his training with Giuseppe Martinelli
Giuliano Figueras and Salvatore Commesso experiencing the rigours of being a pro
Marco Marzano emulating another Marco?
Daniele Bennati looking forward to a big year
Damiano Cunego enjoying the sun
Damiano Cunego with Daniele Bennati
Damiano Cunego gets ready
Damiano Cunego likes the fit
Damiano Cunego powers up
Damiano Cunego works up a sweat
The Lampre team practices crashing
Lampre-Fondital looking more like an organised unit

Etoile de Bessèges

Stage 5 - February 5: Grand Prix de Bessèges: Gagnières - Bessèges, 148 km

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Images by AFP Photo

Jan Kirsipuu (Credit Agricole) wins the final stage of the 36th Etoile de Bessèges
Estonian Jan Kirsipuu (Credit Agricole) with his trophy for winning stage five
Looking pretty pleased with himself after winning overall, Frederik Willems (Chocolade Jacques) holds his winner's trophy
Frederik Willems (Chocolade Jacques) won the overall title in Bessèges

Stage 3 - February 3: Grand Prix du Pays Grand'Combien: Portes - Les Salles du Gardon, 140 km

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Images by AFP Photo

Eric Leblachet (Francaise des Jeux) wins the 3rd stage of the Etoile de Besseges in Les Salles-du-Gardon
Eric Leblachet (Francaise des Jeux) celebrates

Stage 1 - February 1: Marseille - Marseille, 126.2 km

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Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

Frederik Willems (Chocolade Jacques Vlaanderen) grabs victory in the first stage of the first French stage race of the season
Thomas Voeckler (Bouygues Telecom) comes in third as part of a break that had an almost-ten-minute advantage on the bunch
Franck Vandenbroucke (Unibet.Com) rolls in 16 minutes down. Can the former great hope of Belgian cycling regain some of his past glory this season?
Frederik Willems (Chocolade Jacques Vlaanderen) with the day's trophy
Frederik Willems (Chocolade Jacques Vlaanderen) on the podium, with the race leader jersey over a nice cosy jacket. This may be the South of France, but it's still winter!

Images by Régis Garnier/www.velofotopro.com

Two ex world champions - Joop Zoetemelk (l) and Luc Leblanc
Frank Vandenbroucke makes an appearance for unibet.com
Sylvain Chavanel (Cofidis) doesn't look too fussed about the season start
A new bike for a new year...
Bradley Wiggins (Cofidis) was making his first appearance for the new team
The start in what look like quite agreeable conditions

GP d'Ouverture La Marseillaise

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Images by Fotoreporter Sirotti

There was a crash during the final sprint which brought down Ag2r rider Simon Gerrans
Baden Cooke wins in his first outing for new team unibet.com
Baden Cooke (unibet.com) shows he's got some good early-season form for his new squad
All smiles for Cookey in his first race for a new team
The podium (l-r): Philippe Gilbert (Francaises des Jeux), Baden Cooke (unibet.com) and Anthony Geslin (Bouygues Telecom)
Hey boss, I got one! Cooke approaches directeur sportif Hilaire van der Schueren following his win
Time for a hug to celebrate what could be the beginning of a great partnership
Cooke and van der Schueren talk after Cooke's win

Images by AFP Photo

A happy Baden Cooke with his flowers
Baden Cooke (Unibet.com) on top of the podium
Baden Cooke (Unibet.com) wins the GP d'Ouverture La Marseillaise

Images by Régis Garnier/www.velofotopro.com

T-Mobile is presented to the crowd
French champion Pierrick Fedrigo looks pleased to be strating his season
Sandy Casar (Fancaise des Jeux) looks a little pensive before the start
Unibet.com's Aussie duo of Baden Cooke and Matt Wilson
Lloyd Mandory looks happy before the start
Laurent Brochard waits for the start, ready for a new year
Neo-pro Rémi Pauriol is a local rider among the bunch
Baden Cooke wins the Grand Prix d'Ouverture 'La Marseillaise'
Simon Gerrans (AG2R) suffered injuries in a big crash
Simon Gerrans looks a little sore after a crash in the closing stages
Baden Cooke (unibet.com) on the podium
The podium (l-r): Phillipe Gilbert, Baden Cooke and Anthony Geslin
Dimitri Muraviev is the best climber