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Cycling photography for March 2008

Brabantse Pijl
Critérium International
E3 Prijs Vlaanderen
GP Costa Etrusca Montescudaio-Riparbella
Cape Epic
Australian National 24 Hour Solo Championships
Sunshine Cup #5
Dwars door Vlaanderen
Track Cycling World Championships
Settimana Internazionale Coppi e Bartali
Vuelta a Castilla y León
Gran Premio Palio del Recioto
Trofeo Alfredo Binda
Rund um Köln
Milano-Sanremo
Quick Step's Boonen, Visconti and Tonti preview 2008 Worlds course
Nokere Koerse
Giro del Mendrisiotto
Tirreno-Adriatico
Paris-Nice
Tour de la Paix
Tour de Taiwan
Sunshine Cup #4
Porec Trophy
Monte Paschi Eroica
Memorial Samyn
Bendigo Carnival
Giro del Capo
Vuelta a Murcia
Afxentia Stage Race
Karapoti Classic
Kuurne-Brussel-Kuurne
Omloop Het Volk
GP Lugano
Mitsubishi-Jartazi wild card without Vandenbroucke

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.

GP Costa Etrusca - Montescudaio-Riparbella

Photography

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Images by Davide Tricarico/ladiescycling.net

• The women of the Verinlegno Team
• Tatiana Stiajkina (Chirio Forno D'Asolo) returned to racing after the birth of her third child
• The start from the square Castle Montescudaio
• The race headed out through the narrow streets of the town
• The group among the green hills of Tuscany
• The group down the hills
• Raffaella Ascolani (Fenixs) the first fugitive of the day
• Judith Arndt (High Road) has the legs of a champion
• Tuscan spring: the famous road to Bolgheri described by the poetry Carducci
• The Cervelo Lifeforce Team controls the pace nobody leaves the group and fast pace on climbs
• Judith Arndt (High Road) and Noemi Cantele (Bigla) shooting for the GPM:
• Samantha Galassi (Fenixs) raced through her home town of Riparbella.
• Martina Corazza (Gauss-RDZ) passes a bottle to Tatiana Guderzo (Gauss-RDZ) , who returned from the world championships on track in Manchester
• Mechanical problems for Tatiana Guderzo (Gauss-RDZ)
• Kristin Armstrong (Cervelo Lifeforce) does not wait, and launches an uphill attack
• The break formed a group after first passage of Riparbella with Kristin Armstrong (Cervelo Lifeforce), Judith Arndt (High Road), Nicole Brandli and Noemi Cantele (Bigla), Fabiana Luperini (Menikini Selle Italia), Rosane Kirch (Michela Fanini) (covered), Trixi Worrack (Nürnberger)
• Estonian champion Grete Trier (Gauss-RDZ)
• The long shadow of the photographer Davide on race
• The seven athletes fly to the arrival
• Approaching the finish, fire and flames from Kristin Armstrong (Cervelo Lifeforce) and only Noemi Cantele (Bigla) and a delayed Fabiana Luperini (Menikini Selle Italia) respond.
• Head to head between Kristin Armstrong (Cervelo Lifeforce) and Fabiana Luperini (Menikini Selle Italia)
• Kristin Armstrong (Cervelo Lifeforce) raise arms to the sky
• Kristin Armstrong (Cervelo Lifeforce) was happy to talk with the family on the phone
• The podium (L-R) 2nd Fabiana Luperini (Menikini Selle Italia),1st Kristin Armstrong (Cervelo Lifeforce),3rd Noemi Cantele(Bigla)
• Noemi Cantele (Bigla) will think about tomorrow...

Critérium International

Stage 3 - March 30: Charleville-Mézières - Charleville-Mézières, ITT, 8.3km

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Images by AFP Photo

• Germany's Jens Voigt (Team CSC), 36, hoists the prestigious Critérium International trophy over his head after winning the 77th edition, his fourth overall win in the event.
• Jens Voigt (Team CSC) rides to defend the race overall lead that he took in the morning stage of the 77th Critérium International.

Australian 24 hour solo nationals

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Images by CORC/www.corc.asn.au

• Jason English (BMC) reaches for a bottle.
• Jason English (BMC) on his way to the national championship title and 47 completed laps.
• Jason English (BMC) passes by for another lap.
• Jason English (BMC) covered in dirt and dust.
• Jason English (BMC) approaches the finish.
• The winner Jason English (BMC) is almost done after a long day.
• John Claxton (Giant) on his way to second.
• John Claxton (Giant) races at night.
• John Claxton (Giant) crosses the finish line.
• Daniel Mackay (Giant) leads the bunch.
• Daniel Mackay (Giant) after the race.
• Daniel Mackay (Giant) negotiates a wooded section.
• Katrin Van Der Spiegel (Clarence Street Cyclery) racing to a convincing win.
• Katrin Van Der Spiegel (Clarence Street Cyclery) at night
• Katrin Van Der Spiegel (Clarence Street Cyclery) won with 38 laps.
• Katrin Van Der Spiegel (Clarence Street Cyclery) after the race.
• Alexandra Kiendl (Kona) figures out what to eat.
• Alexandra Kiendl (Kona) rode to second.
• Claire Graydon (TORQ, Mal Adjusted) finished third.
• Claire Graydon (TORQ, Mal Adjusted) riding in the woods.
• Is that a gorilla or am I hallucinating?
• Riders never knew what they might see en route!

Sunshine Cup #5

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Images by Armin M. Küstenbrück armin@kuestenbrueck.de

• The start of the men's race.
• On the start loop of the men's race for round five of the Sunshine Cup.
• Wonder if Christoph Soukup (Fuji Bikes) got to enjoy the view on his way to a win?
• Christoph Soukup (Fuji Bikes) and Magnus Darvell descending on their way to the finish
• Magnus Darvell rides the stairs of the village square.
• A Russian national team rider races in Yermasogia.
• Men's round five podium: Maxim Gogolev, Andreas Kugler, Christoph Soukup, Magnus Darvell, Rene Tann
• Team-mates Petra Henzi and Andreas Kugler (Fisher BMC) celebrate their overall wins.
• Petra Henzi (Fisher BMC) on her way to winning the race and the overall series.
• Tereza Hurikova (Ceska Sporitelna) had to run far to get to the pits after an untimely flat tire.
• Women's podium for round five: Polspoel Maaike, Adelheid Morath, Petra Henzi, Tereza Hurikova, Githa Michiels
• Women's overall podium: Polspoel Maaike, Petra Henzi, Tereza Hurikova

Dwars door Vlaanderen

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Images by AFP Photo

• Sylvain Chavanel (Cofidis), 28 wins the 63rd Dwars door Vlaanderen

Images by Bjorn Haake/Cyclingnews.com

• Enrico Franzoi (Liquigas) said that Tom Boonen would be the man to beat.
• Elia Rigotto (Team Milram) signs in at the giant board.
• Rigotto was all wired up for the race.
• Bobbie Traksel (P3Transfer - Batavus) smiles about his good season so far.
• The all-Danish team Designa Køkken should be used to the substandard weather.
• Aaron Kemps (Astana) on the left returns from signing in, a task that his team-mate Tomas Vaitkus is about to undertake.
• Arnaud Gerard (Française des Jeux) was "doing very well" as he told the the crowd before the start.
• Fabian Cancellara (CSC) was honoured even before the start, recognising his brilliant win in Milano-Sanremo.
• Kisses for the Swiss rider before the first serious pedal stroke.
• Nico Eeckhout (Topsport Vlaanderen) is always doing well in the Belgian races.
• Tom Boonen (Quick Step) adjusts his glasses on the start line.
• Nick Nuyens (Cofidis) was about the last to sign in for the day.
• Sylvain Chavanel (Cofidis) crosses the line ahead of his chasers.
• Chavanel was a bit wet but he didn't mind the weather much.
• Nico Eeckhout (Topsport Vlaanderen) sprints to third place, narrowly missing out to Steven De Jongh (Quick Step).
• Chavanel was offered a glass of champagne but politely declined the offer to rehydrate in style.
• Chavanel looked tired after his effort but was otherwise in good spirits as he talked to the press after the race.
• Chavanel couldn't help smiling when he realised what he just had accomplished.

Images by Brecht Decaluwé/Cyclingnews.com

• The market in Roeselare where a lot of people gathered to see the riders sign in.
• The mayor of Waregem Kurt Vanryckegem and politician Carl Decaluwé are asked about their favourites on the podium.
• The rest home organized a day out and received the best spots at the start.
• Team Highroad director Tristan Hoffman won this race in 1996 and also 2000, when the race was named Dwars door België for the last time.
• Bernard Eisel (High Road) is almost as popular as Tom Boonen (Quick Step).
• Last year's winner Tom Boonen (Quick Step) shares a laugh at the start line.
• Fabian Cancellara (Team CSC) attempted to exploit his great early season's form.
• Robbie McEwen (Predictor-Lotto) at the start of the race he won back in 2003.
• Roger Hammond (High Road) has a mechanical before the race has even started.
• Geert Verheyen and Nick Nuyens wanted a photo for the family album.
• The riders are lining up for the start of the 63th Dwars door Vlaanderen at the market in Roeselare.
• During the first hour the speed was high in the peloton with several attacks.
• The peloton corners out of Beveren-Leie towards Waregem.
• These riders are at the back of the peloton.
• After the riders have passed, the exhaust fumes take over.

Settimana Internazionale Coppi e Bartali

Stage 5 - March 29: Castellarano - Sassuolo, 169.1km

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Emanuele Sella (Group Navigare) snuck away at the end, to win by a couple of seconds.
• Sella celebrates as the sprint for second is in full swing behind him.
• Colombian Jose Rodolfo Serpa Perez smiles as he pedals up the hill.
• Sella liked to have the ability to cross the line celebrating.
• Alessandro Spezialetti races hard.
• Spezialetti hydrates during his break so he wouldn't falter, but eventually he did get caught.
• Marco Pinotti (High Road) leads the bunch
• Lotto was all there for Evans and even Australian champion Matthew Lloyd put himself into the work force.
• Stefano Garzelli tried to shake Cadel Evans on the final stage.
• But Evans wasn't gonna have any of it and stayed on the Italian's wheel.
• Evans in the leader's jersey while Garzelli has the mountain's shirt.
• A little split in the peloton but it came back together.

Stage 4 - March 28: Rio Saliceto - Finale Emilia, 184.4km

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Gilberto Simoni (Serramenti PVC Diquigiovanni-Androni Giocattoli) adjusts his glasses at the start.
• Stefano Garzelli (Acqua Sapone-Caffè Mokambo), second overall, looks forward to the start of stage four
• Race leader Cadel Evans (Silence-Lotto) talks with Francesco Moser.
• The escape with Daniel Schorn (Elk Haus-Simplon) at the rear with Andrea Pagoto (CSF Group Navigare) leading Artur Krol (Centri Della Calzatura-Partizan).
• Francesco Chicchi (Liquigas) working in the finale.
• Italian Francesco Chicchi (Liquigas), 27, wins stage four of the 8th Coppi e Bartali ahead of Italian Mattia Gavazzi (Preti Mangimi) (r) and German Robert Förster (Gerolsteiner) (l).
• Francesco Chicchi (Liquigas) delighted with the win.
• Italy's Francesco Chicchi (Liquigas) tops the podium for the day with Italian Mattia Gavazzi (Preti Mangimi) and German Robert Förster (Gerolsteiner) (l & r).

Stage 3 - March 27: Scandiano - Pavullo, 199.4km

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Cadel Evans (Silence-Lotto) takes the overall lead.
• A thrilled Cadel Evans (Silence-Lotto) after winning stage three of the Coppi e Bartali.
• Cadel Evans (Silence-Lotto) gives a smile.
• Vincenzo Nibali (Liquigas) crosses the line for third.
• Evans gives a one-two punch by taking the stage win and the overall.
• Overnight race leader Stefano Garzelli (Acqua Sapone-Caffè Mokambo) crosses the line for second.
• Australian Cadel Evans (Silence-Lotto), 32, wins stage three of the 8th Settimana Internazionale Coppi e Bartali and takes the overall lead.
• Cadel Evans (Silence-Lotto) climbing away on the Valico di Gaiato
• Stefano Garzelli (Acqua Sapone-Caffè Mokambo) tries to limit his losses to Cadel Evans (Silence-Lotto), who moved free on the Valico di Gaiato.
• Cadel Evans (Silence-Lotto) after crossing the line.
• Italian Stefano Garzelli (Acqua Sapone-Caffè Mokambo) crosses the line
• Niklas Axelsson (Serramenti PVC Diquigiovanni-Androni Giocattoli) had a good day out.
• Cadel Evans (Silence-Lotto) kisses his wedding ring after winning stage three.

Stage 2 - March 26: Castel San Pietro Terme - Faenza, 175.6km

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Race leader Francesco Chicchi (Liquigas) at the start of the day.
• A woman hands out promotional items at the start.
• Paride Grillo (CSF Group Navigare) rolls out for the start.
• Stage two starts.
• Vincenzo Nibali (Liquigas) rides in defence of team-mate and overall leader Francesco Chicchi.
• The Italian countryside near Modena.
• Niklas Axelsson (Serramenti PVC Diquigiovanni-Androni Giocattoli) takes a solo win after attacking at 1500 metres.
• Niklas Axelsson (Serramenti PVC Diquigiovanni-Androni Giocattoli), 35, has made the most of recent form by winning the stage two of the 8th Settimana Internazionale Coppi e Bartali.
• Stefano Garzelli (Acqua Sapone-Caffè Mokambo) leads home the sprint for second.
• Italian Stefano Garzelli (Acqua Sapone-Caffè Mokambo) battles for second on the stage and overall honours.
• Stefano Garzelli (Acqua Sapone-Caffè Mokambo) takes the race lead from Francesco Chicchi (Liquigas).

Stage 1b - March 25: Misano - Misano, 11.8km

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• The Liquigas team stormed to victory in the team time trial.
• With two wins in one day, Liquigas has put Francesco Chicchi in the lead by six seconds.
• The Silence-Lotto team finished fifth.
• The AG2R-La Mondiale team struggled, finishing 28 seconds behind
• Evans leads the Silence-Lotto squad.
• The Lampre squad finished 17 seconds down.

Stage 1a - March 25: Riccione - Riccione, 95.2km

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Francesco Chicchi (Liquigas) gets the sprint win on the first half-stage.
• Matteo Montaguti (Lpr Brakes), Francesco Chicchi (Liquigas) and Mauro Abel Richeze (CSF Group-Navigare) are mountains, overall and points leaders, respectively.
• Chicchi salutes after his sprint victory.
• The breakaway of Matteo Montaguti (LPR) and Piergiorgio Camussa (NGC Medical) didn't stand a chance when Lampre hit the front.
• Lampre heads to the fore to set up the sprint.
• Danilo Napolitano (Lampre) sits in waiting for the sprint.
• Miguel Martinez (Amore & Vita - McDonald's)
• Mattia Gavazzi (Ita) Preti Mangimi on the podium for his second place.
• Stefano Garzelli (Acqua Sapone - Caffe Mokambo) wears the number of defending champion.
• Vincenzo Nibali (Ita) Liquigas
• Marco Marzano (Lampre) sitting in the bunch waiting his turn to chase.
• Gruppo compatto.
• Some shiny De Rosa bikes of the LPR Brakes team.
• Piergiorgio Camussa (NGC Medical - OTC) in the breakaway
• Giordano Montanari (Ita) Nippo - Endeka
• Luca Mazzanti (Tinkoff)
• Grillo returned to racing after crashing his BMW over the holidays.
• Paride Grillo (CSF Group Navigare)
• Sylvester Szmyd (Lampre) helps the chase.
• Boris Shpilevsky (Preti Mangimi)
• Maurio Richeze (CSF Group-Navigare) took the points classification.

Vuelta a Castilla y León

Stage 4 - March 27: Carrión de los Condes - Montaña Palentina, 160.8km

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Spaniard Alberto Contador (Astana) powers on in stage four.
• Mauricio Soler (Barloworld) working with Alberto Contador (Astana).
• Mauricio Soler (Barloworld) and Alberto Contador (Astana) getting a gap.
• Colombian Mauricio Soler (Barloworld) working with the lead group.
• Alberto Contador (Astana) is well covered by television in Spain.
• Alberto Contador (Astana), 25, wins solo on the mountain top finish of the Puerto de Collada de Salcedillo in stage four of the 23 Vuelta a Castilla y León.

Stage 3 - March 26: Valladolid - Villa del Libro de Urueña, 159.9km

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Team Barloworld working for Moisés Dueñas.
• Levi Leipheimer (Astana) in stage three; the USA Champion is now second overall.
• Iñigo Cuesta (Team CSC) crashed and had to abandon , with Martin Mata Cabello (Burgos Monumental), halfway through the stage.
• Martin Mata Cabello (Burgos Monumental) on the deck after his crash with Iñigo Cuesta (Team CSC).
• An Extremadura-Grupo Gallardo rider down in stage three.
• Francisco José Ventoso (Andalucía-Cajasur) wins stage three of the Vuelta a Castilla y León ahead of Samuel Sanchez (Euskaltel-Euskadi) and Karpin-Galicia's Gustavo Lemos.
• Francisco José Ventoso (Andalucía-Cajasur) on the podium after the stage win.

Stage 2 - March 25: Segovia - Ávila, 141.7km

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• A castle greets the peloton.
• A Contentpolis - Murcia rider tries his hand in an escape group.
• Alberto Fernández De La Puebla (Saunier Duval-Scott) joins the escape group.
• USA's Chris Horner (Astana) rides in stage two.
• 2007 Tour de France Winner Alberto Contador (Astana) continues to lead the overall of the 23rd Vuelta a Castilla y León.
• Lovely mountain views during the 23rd Vuelta a Castilla y León.
• Alberto Contador (Astana) riding in the 23rd Vuelta a Castilla y León
• Spaniard Alberto Contador (Astana) races with the leaders jersey of the 23rd Vuelta a Castilla y León.
• Stage two covers a river on the way to the finish in Ávila.
• The peloton passes power generators.
• Karsten Kroon (Team CSC) wins stage two of the 23rd Vuelta a Castilla y León in a sprint over Thomas Dekker (Rabobank) and Bauke Mollema (Rabobank).
• Karsten Kroon (Team CSC) awarded for winning stage two of the 23rd Vuelta a Castilla y León.

Stage 1 - March 24: Valsain - La Granja de San Ildefonso, 9.7km

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Images by Israel Alonso

• Carlos Sastre (CSC) starting the time trial in a race he considered a good test for things to come.
• Alberto Contador (Astana) on the start ramp waiting to get unleashed, before storming the course with a time of almost 50 km/h.

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Alberto Contador (Astana) on his way to the win in the short, dangerously icy time trial.
• Contador crushed his rivals to win the first stage.

Gran Premio Palio del Recioto

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Images by Grandi Eventi Valpolicella

• Gianluca Brambilla (Zalf Desiree Fior) takes the win 22 seconds ahead of second place.
• The podium (l-r), Emanuele Moschen (Unidelta Arvedi Garda), Gianluca Brambilla (Zalf Desiree Fior), Manuele Caddeo (Mastromarco Grassi).

Trofeo Alfredo Binda, Women's World Cup round 2

Photography

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Emmay Pooley (Specialized) wins the World Cup round, the Trofeo Alfredo Binda
• World Champion Marta Bastianelli tried to chase, but Pooley's gap was too large to close.
• Pooley flies into the finish after a long solo breakaway to claim her first World Cup win.
• Pooley on the podium with race organisers.
• Pooley is introduced by Umberto Bossi.
• Italian Marta Bastianelli took eighth under a bit of pressure as World Champion.
• Suzanne De Goede and Emma Pooley alongside veteran Diana Ziliute on the podium.
• Pooley with her new jersey as World Cup leader.
• Emma Pooley is the new World Cup leader.
• Emma Pooley a bit stunned after her long solo breakaway ended up with a World Cup win.
• The young World Champion Italian Marta Bastianelli.

Images by Ben Atkins/Cyclingnews.com

• Team Swift take catch some rays as they prepare to race in the spring sunshine of Lombardia.
• Team Halfords-Bikehut prepares for a baptism of fire in its first World Cup race (apart from captain Nicole Cooke that is).
• If there was a competition for the best team car, Fenix would win it hands down!
• Team High Road soaks up the spring sunshine as they get ready.
• Ina Teutenberg (Team High Road) lives la dolce vita.
• Oenone Wood (Team High Road) won here in 2004 on a different course, and feels good about today's much hiller race.
• Trixie Worrack (Equipe Nürnberger Versicherung) was the team's protected rider today, but didn't manage to get a result.
• Regina Schleicher (Equipe Nürnberger Versicherung) won here in 2006, but is under no illusions that about her chances today on a much hillier course.
• Ina Teutenberg (Team High Road) can't believe her luck.
• Noemi Cantele (Team Bigla) has the qualities to do well on today's hilly course.
• Japanese Champion Miho Oki (Menikini-Selle Italia) was active in the middle of the race.
• When you're Japanese champion a Japanese company will be only too willing to make you a nice pair of shoes.
• Cycingnews Diarist Rochelle Gilmore (Menikini-Selle Italia) talks tactics with team-mate and 2000 winner Fabiana Luperini.
• World Champion Marta Bastianlelli (Safi - Pasta Zara Manhattan) was tipped by many to take her first victory of the season.
• The peloton rolls out of Cittiglio on a beautiful spring afternoon.
• Gruppo Compatto. All together at the front as they finish the first lap.
• Is that a grimace or a smile? Emma Pooley (Specialized Designs For Women) take the last corner with 300m to go.
• Judith Arndt (Team High Road) leads the peloton around the final bend.

Images by Davide Tricarico/www.ladiescycling.net

• Marta Villajosana (Team Cmax Dilà) is the captain of her team.
• Noemi Cantele (Bigla) was expected to be strong in her home World Cup round.
• Oenone Wood (Team High Road), shown in the Australian champion jersey, is a great sprinter.
• Tatiana Guderzo (Gauss-RDZ) has returned to an Italian team.
• Judith Arndt (Team High Road) was world champion in 2004.
• Fabiana Luperini (Menikini Selle Italia) is a great climber.
• Giorgia Bronzini (Titanedi Frezza) shows her new jersey.
• The peloton enters a critical point of the race.
• Fabiana Luperini (Menikini Selle Italia) and Elena Berlato (Safi Pasta Zara) leading the group on Brinzio.
• Alison Power (USA National), Elodie Tuffet and team-mate Julia Martisova (Gauss-RDZ) in front of the peloton.
• A rainbow into the group, Marta Bastianelli (Safi Pasta Zara).
• Veronica Leal Banderas (Gauss-RDZ) wins the Brinzio climb points.
• Martine Bras (Vrienden Van Het Platteland) a breakway on Brinzio.
• Emma Pooley (Team Specialized) in her long solo breakaway.
• Emma Pooley (Team Specialized) makes it to the finish line all alone.
• Emma Pooley (Team Specialized) with the UCI World Cup leader's jersey.
• Emma Pooley (Team Specialized) shows her satisfaction.
• Emma Pooley (Team Specialized) at the press conference.
• Martine Bras (Vrienden Van Het Platteland) was the first to breakway on the day.
• Suzanne de Goede (Equipe Nürnberger Versicherung) sprints to second place.
• Podium (L-R): Suzanne De Goede (Equipe Nürnberger Versicherung), Emma Pooley (Team Specialized Designs For Women) and Diana Ziliute (Safi - Pasta Zara Manhattan).

Images by WomensCycling.net

• The Team Specialized Designs for Women team at the team presentation with souvenir frogs and Easter eggs.
• Menikini Selle Italia are presented to the crowd in Cittiglio.
• Gunn-Rita Dahle Flesjaa (Safi-Pasta Zara Manhattan) warming up before the start. warming up before the start.
• Annette Beutler (Team Bigla) driving a group on the climb .
• 2007 winner of the Trofeo Binda, Nicole Cooke (Halfords Bike Hut) in action in the bunch.
• Eva Lutz (Equipe Nürnberger Versicherung) loves the dreads.
• Austrian National Champion, Daniela Pintarelli (Team Uniqa).
• Emma Pooley (Specialized Designs) ahead of the bunch at Orino.
• Changing gear for the steep part of the hairpin: Jessica Allen (Halfords Bike Hut).
• Team-mates of the eventual winner, Mirjam Hauser-Sann and Sarah Grabb (Specialized Designs).
• Emma Pooley (Specialized Designs) with 30km to go and 2 minutes 30 seconds advantage on the bunch.
• Emma Pooley wins the 10th Trofeo Binda, round 2 of the 2008 World Cup.
• A German National Team rider leading a group on the climb.
• Kristin Armstrong (Cervelo-Lifeforce) looking relaxed in the bunch.
• Emma Rickards (Cervelo-Lifeforce) was second in the first World Cup.
• Miho Oki (Menikini-Selle Italia ) in a break with Priska Doppmann.
• Nicole Brändli (Team Bigla) leads the chase group through the corner.
• Judith Arndt (High Road) during the third lap.
• Luise Keller (High Road) is the current German National Champion.
• Determination from a Michela Fanini Record Rox rider.
• Ina Teutenberg (High Road) rides with her race number (13) upside-down, in keeping with tradition.
• A German National Team rider on the climb.
• Noemi Cantele (Team Bigla) leads on the climb in an attempt to chase down Emma Pooley.
• Anita Valen De Vries (Flexpoint) on the climb during lap four.
• Emma Pooley (Specialized Designs) was strong throughout her break.
• Priska Doppmann (Cervelo-Lifeforce) tries to bridge to Emma Pooley on the last climb.
• The race podium with (l-r): Suzanne De Goede (Nürnberger Versicherung), Emma Pooley (Specialized Designs) and Diana Ziliute (SAFI).
• A happy group on the podium.
• Emma Pooley lets fly with the champagne as the others prepare to duck for cover.

Rund um Köln

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Images by Frank Wiemann

• The vendor area was set up but snowed in and not many spectators were in attendance...
• The finish area in Kalk at 9:30 in the morning.
• Can you imagine a sprint under these conditions?
• Some die-hards rode anyway but for the safety of the riders, Rund um Köln was cancelled.

Images by Lucas Westemeyer

• Team Milram's car, bikes and bus are sitting out in the snowfall
• A CSC rider wonders whether he will be sitting on one of those bikes in the snow
• The Austrian Team Volksbank vehicles ought to be used to this sort of winter weather...
• ...but the High Road vehicles from California probably had some culture shock.

Quick Step's Boonen, Visconti and Tonti preview 2008 Worlds course

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Andrea Tonti and Tom Boonen lead on a climb of the 2008 Worlds course.
• Andrea Tonti previews the 2008 World Championships parcours.
• Belgian Tom Boonen meets the media on his day out at the 2008 World Championships course in Varese.
• Italian Champion Giovanni Visconti rides on the 2008 World Championships parcours, and past the start of the 2007 Giro di Lombardia.
• Tom Boonen adjust his kit while riding on the 2008 Worlds course.
• Boonen talks to his Quick Step team-mates outside the horse track in Varese, the site of the 2008 World Championships.
• Tom Boonen looking relaxed two days before the Milano-Sanremo.
• Media following Quick Step as the riders preview the 2008 World Championships parcours in Varese.
• Tom Boonen rides through the city during his reconnaissance of the 2008 World Championships parcours with Andrea Tonti (l).
• Andrea Tonti with Miss Worlds while in Varese with Giovanni Visconti (c) and Tom Boonen (l).
• Italian Champion Giovanni Visconti departs Varese while previewing the 2008 World Championships parcours.
• Giovanni Visconti notes the finish of the 2008 World Championships.
• Italian Champ Giovanni Visconti (r) with Quick Step team-mates Andrea Tonti (l) and Tom Boonen.
• Cycling star, Tom Boonen, in Varese to preview the 2008 World Championships parcours.

Nokere Koerse

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Images by Stijn Vercaemer/www.cyclingview.be

• The fans of Frank Vandenbroucke still believe in him.
• Support for Frank Vandenbroucke.
• Laurens Ten Dam (Rabobank) ready for the start.
• Jan Kuyckx (Landbouwkrediet) looking forward to start.
• Stefan Van Dijk, riding for team Misubishi-Jartazi is known as a fast finisher but just didn't have the legs today.
• Kevin Hulsman (Quick Step).
• The Specialized bike of Kevin Van Impe (Quick Step) .
• Johan Molly, soigneur of the Quick Step team.
• The leading group of the day with David Boucher (Landbouwkrediet) out front.
• The leaders negotiate a small climb in the heart of Belgium.
• Pieter Jacobs (Silence-Lotto) sitting happily in the peloton.
• Yannick Talabardon (Crédit Agricole).
• Wouter Weylandt (Quick-Step) rode superbly to take the 63rd edition of Nokere Koerse.

Giro del Mendrisiotto

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Eddy Serri gets the first win for Miche - Silvercross in the 2008 season

Tour de la Paix Ivoirien

Stage 6 - March 12: Gd Bassam-Abidjan , 104.1 km

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Images by AFP Photo

• Melons await the riders
• The peloton rolls through one of the many small villages along the stage route.
• The pack rides through Grand Bassam.
• Martias Romy (Bouygues Telecom) takes a drink.
• The pack rides through Abidjan.
• France's Martias Romy (Bouygues Telecom) , winner of the First Tour de la Paix (Tour of Peace) refereshes after crossing the finish line in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.
• A rider from Credit Agricole takes photos of the Burkina Faso team.
• The peloton rolls out for a rainy final stage.
• The Moroccan team finds a shady spot before the final stage.
• The leader's Bouygues Telecom team has a chance to relax before the final stage
• The peloton comes in for the final sprint.
• One of the Credit Agricole riders plays a game with some fans at the start.
• Romy came in with the peloton to win the inaugural Tour de la Paix.
• Italy's LPR-Brakes team receive an Ivory Coast flag from young boy before the final stage.
• Romy gets help with the jersey after winning the overall classification.
• France's Martias Romy (Bouygues Telecom) and Ivory Coast Sports Minister Dagobert Banzio on the podium.
• Cyclists from Austria and Rwanda chat before the departure of the final stage of the first edition of the Ivorian Tour de la Paix (Tour of Peace)
• Riders take a pass on some local delicacies before the final stage.
• Tour de la Paiz winner Martias Romy (Bouygues Telecom)
• Martias Romy (Bouygues Telecom) is congratulated by French ambassador to Ivory Coast Andre Janier.
• Cyclists sign-in before the departure of the final stage.

Stage 1 - March 7: Abidjan-Akoupé , 130 km

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Images by AFP Photo

• The pack rides through the village of Akoupe 150 km in the south of Ivory Coast's capital Abidjan during the first stage of the first edition of the Ivorian Tour de la Paix (Tour of Peace).
• Teams Bouygues Telecom and Credit Agricole ride through the village of Akoupe.
• Bouygues Telecom's Sebastien Turgot celebrates on the finish line in the village of Akoupe
• Bouygues Telecom's Sebastien Turgot takes the sprint on stage one.
• Former French champion Laurent Fignon helps Turgot to put on his yellow jersey.
• Sebastien Turgot dons the yellow jersey.
• A local rider waves to the fans.
• The final sprint on stage one was won by Turgot.

Tour de Taiwan

Stage 8 - March 16: Shihfu - Shihfu, 60 km

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Images by Greg Chang/PhotoSport International

• A makeshift tripod for stable coverage.
• John Murphy (HealthNet) in the leader's jersey on the final stage.
• Kuan Hua Lai (Giant Asia) looks good during the final stage.
• Marek Wesoly (Merida Europe) leads the bunch into the turn.
• Wong Kam-Po (Hong Kong Pro Cycling Team) during the crit in the last stage.
• Polish Marek Wesoly won the race in Shifu.
• There was plenty of support on the start finish line.
• ESPN Asia was close to the action.
• You will have to turn right here.
• Taiji Nishitani in the break. His active riding netted him a fifth place for the day.
• Takashi Miyazawa (Meitan Hompo-GDR) was third overall and best Asian rider.
• John Murphy concentrated during the race as a crash or other mishap could have endangered his lead.
• Murphy held on to his slim 10-sec margin over Shawn Miles.
• HealthNet was controlling the bunch as much as they could.
• Shawn Mile tried as much as he could but fell short in the end.
• Marek Wesoly won the final stage.
• Kirk O'Bee was there for his team to secure the overall victory through Murphy.
• Milne and Murphy (r) battle it out for the overall victory, with only ten second separating them in the end.
• Team Type 1 with impressive skyline in the background.
• Team Type 1 was happy with the race and the second place overall for Shawn Milne.
• Merida riders get special kinds of bottles.
• Wong Kam Po with helmet number 31 powers along the course.
• A criterium provides good photo moments for the many photographers.
• John Murphy sitting pretty in the bunch.
• Murphy in front of the tower.
• HealthNet powers at the front.
• John Murphy leaning into the turn.
• Kirk O'Bee on a flyer.
• Murphy celebrates his overall victory while Wesoly wins the stage.
• Takashi Miyazawa (Team Meitan Hompo-GDR) of Japan finished third overall and was best Asian rider.
• John Murphy (HealthNet) won the general classification.
• The final podium with all the jerseys
• Murphy kisses the small trophy with large tower in the background.
• Murphy signs autographs

Stage 7 - March 15: Jingmao - Jingmao, 58 km

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Images by Greg Chang/PhotoSport International

• The penultimate stage begins outside the Taipei Cycle Show venue.
• The peloton rolls out next to where the Taipei Cycle Show will be held.
• Riders roll by the Taipei Cycle Show venue.
• Wong Kam-Po (Hong Kong Pro Cycling Team) leads a small break away.
• A Japanese rider holds his chest after being taken down in the race stopping crash.
• Officials enter the course to stop riders after they decide to restart the race.
• Riders look back at the carnage as another gets thrown into the air.
• Many riders hit the tarmac in the early finish-line crash.
• The peloton got back up to speed quickly after the restart.
• Wong Kam-Po (Hong Kong Pro Cycling Team) celebrates a clear victory on the penultimate stage.
• Wong Kam-Po (Hong Kong Pro Cycling Team) rolls home a clear winner.
• The full podium of riders after the event's penultimate stage.

Stage 6 - March 14: Taipei City Hall - Taipei City Hall, 127.7 km

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Images by Greg Chang/PhotoSport International

• America's John Murphy (Health Net) continues to lead the race.
• Kyle Gritters (Health Net) claims a comfortable victory.
• American Kyle Gritters (Health Net) celebrates as he crosses the line alone.
• Kyle Gritters (Health Net) beat home Valeriyl Kobzarenko from rival American squad Team Type 1.
• Kin San Wu (Hong Kong Pro Cycling Team) finished third, some 25 seconds down.
• A rider falls as the remainder of the peloton sprints for sixth place.
• Korea's Seon Ho Park (Seoul City Cycling Team) was left with some heavy skin wounds after the finish crash.
• The bikes took a hammering in the finishing crash too.
• Local rider Po Hung Wu (Kinan CCD Team) didn't fare too well in the crash either.

Stage 5 - March 13: Hsinchu City Hall - Splendid Coastline, 148.3 km

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Images by Greg Chang/PhotoSport International

• Wang Yip Tang (Hong Kong Pro Cycling Team) attacks the peloton on Stage 5.
• Kuan Hua Lai (Giant Asia Racing Team) gets going again after a flat tyre.
• Race leader John Murphy (Health Net) rides in the peloton.
• American John Murphy (Health Net) wearing the yellow jersey on Stage 5.
• Kam Po Wong (Hong Kong Pro Cycling Team) rides in the peloton on Stage 5.
• Ho Ting Kwok (Hong Kong Pro Cycling Team) rides by a windmill on the fifth stage.
• The peloton rolls past the Pel Complex in Taiwan.
• Two riders from Australia's Drapac-Porsche ride in the peloton near the windmill.
• 2007 winner Shawn Milne (Team Type 1) looks to see who is behind him.
• The Merida Team roll along in single file.
• A rider indicates that there's only two laps to go before the final sprint.
• The lead group pushes the pace high as the finish nears.
• Defending champion Shawn Milne (Team Type 1) takes victory on Stage 5.
• Spectators await the arrival of the main bunch.
• Podium: Shawn Milne (Team Type 1), John Murphy (Health Net) and Kuan Hua Lai (Giant Asia Racing Team).
• Someone should always be worried when the scissors come out...
• ...as Team Type 1 director Ed Beamon is about to find out.
• Shawn Milne cuts off the goatee of Team Type 1 director Ed Beamon after he claimed a stage victory in Taiwan.

Stage 4 - March 12: Shiang Sahang - Shiang Sahang, 88 km

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Images by Greg Chang/PhotoSport International

• John Murphy (Health Net) safely tucked into the peloton as the leader of the race.
• Murphy takes a few bonus seconds in a sprint.
• Murphy shadowed by second overall, Peter McDonald (Drapac).
• The Malaysian team at the Tour of Taiwan.
• Riders on the podium after the event's fourth stage.
• Judges watch the race up close... on a television screen.
• The peloton passes under the start/finish banner on the fourth stage.
• American John Murphy (Health Net) on his way to third place.
• Ireland's David Mccann (Giant Asia Racing Team) finished 87th on the fourth stage.
• John Murphy (Health Net) continues to lead the general classification.
• Riders fly by buildings in the local district on Stage 4.
• The peloton passes by an arch in the local town.
• Wong Kam-Po (Hong Kong) rides alone as he attempts to break up the race.
• Team Type 1 riders and director pose for a photo with fans.

Stage 3 - March 11: Baguashan - Baguashan, 117.4 km

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Images by Greg Chang/PhotoSport International

• John Murphy (HealthNet) is the overall leader after two stages and arrives exhausted at the finish of stage 3.
• Angus Morton (Drapac) crashed in today's stage but will receive a new outfit and continue tomorrow.
• The team KFS before the start is happy to not have to race in rainy Europe right now.
• The peloton rides through lines of spectators that almost made them feel like they are at the Tour de France.
• Many fans came out to cheer the riders on.
• Murphy held on to his race lead by a slim margin of five seconds over Aussie Peter McDonald.
• Peter McDonald (Drapac Porsche) wins stage 3 and inches closer in GC, thanks to time boni.
• McDonald came out ahead of a splintered field.
• The Aussie is visibly happy and hopefully the win will make his team-mate Morton forget his crash pains.
• John Murphy (HealthNet) stands tall as the overall leader.
• The race convoy with HealthNet leading in car 1.
• Huge crowds greeted the riders in Taiwan.
• The peloton head down a city street.
• The head of the field as the rest of the bunch splinters behind.
• Yesterdays winner Wesoly Marek and GC leader Murphy sprint for an intermediate sprint.
• A crowd of pom-pom wielding fans lined the streets to watch the race go by.
• Temples were seen all along the route of todays stage.
• A small break-away has a gap on the main field.
• Another temple along the route.
• Rice fields and bike races...
• The peloton passes a local flower shop.
• Wong Kam-Po (Hong Kong Pro Cycling Team) leading a small group.
• Peter McDonald (Drapac) ended the day just 5 seconds down on the overall lead.
• John Murphy wearing the leaders jersey.
• Kuan Hua Lai (Giant Asia Racing Team) leads the local rider competition.
• Todays winners.
• John Murphy has been enjoying the champagne.

Stage 2 - March 10: Farming Exposition - Farming Exposition, 111.2 km

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Images by Greg Chang/PhotoSport International

• Healthnet transported their own seating....
• This way guys!
• The peloton heading into another round about.
• The break make their way through a field of flowers.
• With the peloton hot on their heels.
• One kilometer to go.
• The peloton spread across the road.
• Wesoly Marek (Merida Europe Team) takes the stage.
• Marek salutes the crowd.
• Marek sits in second overall after the stage.
• Marek's team mate is happy (background).
• Wong Kam-Po sits in the peloton.
• Wong Kam-Po leads the Asian rider classification.
• Po Wong eats the fruits of his labour.
• John Murphy (Health Net) leading the points classification.
• Koji Fukushima (Team Meitan Hompo-GDR) greets the crowd.
• The peloton round a giant round about.
• So this is why they had their own chairs...
• Wesoly Marek (Merida Europe Team) , today's winner.
• Marek on the podium.
• All the leaders of the tour after stage 2.
• Murphy pops the champas...
• before taking a sample.
• Robbie Williams (Drapac) receives a wheel change.

Stage 1 - March 9: Love River Criterium, 88 km (2.2 km x 40 laps)

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Images by Greg Chang/PhotoSport International

• Locals perform for the fans that have lined the streets for the event's opening stage.
• A drummer builds up the tension as riders get ready to race.
• Defending champion Shawn Milne (Team Type 1) signs on for the 2008 race.
• Team Type 1's Phil Southerland, from the United States of America, warms up for the stage.
• The peloton rolls out on the first stage of the 2008 Tour de Taiwan.
• Action heats up at the head of the peloton as the race gets underway.
• Defending champion Shawn Milne (Team Type 1) leads the peloton.
• Takashi Miyazawa (Team Meitan Hompo-GDR) attacks the peloton early in the race.
• Japan's Takashi Miyazawa (Team Meitan Hompo-GDR) rides in a small group.
• Wong Kam-Po (Hong Kong Pro Cycling Team) drives a small break.
• American Kirk O'bee rides with his Health Net Pro Cycling Team Presented by Maxxis team-mates.
• A Malaysian rider drives the six-person break-away.
• Stage winner Wong Kam-Po (Hong Kong Pro Cycling Team) rides in the bunch.
• Team Meitan Hompo-GDR riders help push the high-pace.
• A Merida rider gives his bike a wash as the peloton rolls along.
• Riders take a tumble into the barrier causing a problem for riders behind.
• The stage had a neutral service bike...
• ...but HealthNet had an unusual service bike of its own.
• Wong Kam-Po starts celebrating before the Hong Kong rider even crosses the line.
• Hong Kong's Wong Kam-Po was the clear winner on Taiwan's opening stage.
• Wong Kam-Po (Hong Kong Pro Cycling Team) celebrates after taking victory on the first stage.
• The peloton weaves it's way through the city streets.
• John Murphy (Healthnet) Points Leader
• Wong Kam-Po Yellow Champagne
• The peloton was lead by an unusual character.
• Passing one of the many landmarks along the way.

Sunshine Cup #4

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Images by Armin M. Küstenbrück armin@kuestenbrueck.de

• The men are off in round four of the Sunshine Cup.
• The men race the start loop all strung out.
• Roel Paulissen (Vredestein Cannondale) leads a chasing Christoph Soukup during the fourth round of the Sunshine Cup
• Roel Paulissen (Vredestein Cannondale) leads up a very scenic climb.
• Roel Paulissen (Vredestein Cannondale) celebrates his win as he crosses the finish line.
• Christoph Soukup descends in front of a crashing Tereza Hurikova (Czech National Team) as she is about to be overtaken by Austrian Elisabeth Osl.
• Petra Henzi (Fisher BMC) runs uphill on her way to victory.
• Petra Henzi (Fisher BMC) climbs solo in the lead.
• The women's podium

Porec Trophy

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Images by Ivo Rilovic

• Two racers in the Porec Trophy race in Croatia.
• The podium with Aldo Ino Ilešic (Sava) on top.

Memorial Samyn

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Philippe Gilbert (FdJ) makes it look easy.
• Gilbert took his second win this week in the GP Samyn.
• The GP Samyn 2008 podium Saramotins, Gilbert and Ista.
• The sprint behind Gilbert was fought out by Aleksejs Saramotins (Rietumu Bank-Riga) and Kevin Ista (Agritubel)

Bendigo Carnival

Stage 3 - March 9: Bendigo Madison, 200 laps

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Images by Shane Goss/www.licoricegallery.com

• Joel Leonard leads the field into the home straight in a heat of the invitation keirin
• There was plenty of food and drink on offer in the Gold and Opal Club beside the track at the Tom Flood Sports Arena
• Todd Wilksch (l) and Jackson-Leigh Rathbone keep each other company in the final of the men's invitation keirin
• The pace is on with a lap to go in the men's invitation keirin final
• Joel Leonard takes out the men's invitation keirin final on the final day of the carnival
• Glen O'Shea was looking ahead to big things in the Madison; Here he follows his Madison partner, Leigh Howard, in the final of the Golden Mile Wheelrace
• Jay Callaghan takes out the final of the Golden Mile Wheelrace worth $3,000 to the winner
• Jay Callaghan with his spoils from winning the 2008 Golden Mile Wheelrace
• Glen O'Shea (l) is slung into action by teammate Leigh Howard; O'Shea and Howard were the hot favourites to win the 2008 McCaig Air Conditioning Bendigo Madison
• Western Australian Travis Meyer riding for Innes Motors goes on the attack looking for an early lap on the field
• Sean Pontelandolfo (L) and Casey Munro riding for the BGA Architects team had the job in-front of them early into the Madison.
• Geelong's Leigh Howard (VIS/Jayco) powers around the Tom Flood Sports Arena in the Madison
• Argentinean pair Sebastian Donadio (l) and Juan Gaspari riding for the McCaig Air Conditioning team swap turns in the Madison
• Glen O'Shea (l) and Leigh Howard (VIS/Jayco) team up on the way to victory in the Madison
• Sean Finning slings 3BO FM/SASI partner James Langedyk into the fray during the Madison
• Jayco/VIS teammates Leigh Howard (l) and Glen O'Shea working together towards victory in the 2008 McCaig Air Conditioning Bendigo Madison
• Nic Sanderson (r) throws his Drapac Porsche teammate Mile Olman into the action and a place on the podium
• Brad Edmunds (r) throws his Brunetti Higgs teammate David Pell into the action during the Madison
• Sean Finning grimaces as he slings 3BO FM/SASI teammate James Langedyk in during the 200 lap Madison
• Travis Meyer is only too happy to throw brother and Innes Motors teammate Cameron into the thick of it during the Madison
• Svein Tuft gets ready to change with Tweed Southerland First National teammate Hayden Josefski
• Juan Gaspari throws his McCaig Air Conditioning partner Sebastian Donadio in on the home straight at the Tom Flood Sports Arena
• Local horse-racing caller and cycling enthusiast Rick Macintosh introduces the Madison Champions Leigh Howard and Glen O’Shea to the crowd after their win.
• 2008 McCaig Air Conditioning Bendigo Madison Champions Leigh Howard (l) and Glen O'Shea of the Jayco/VIS team

Stage 2 - March 8: Bendigo Wheelrace, 2000m

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Images by Shane Goss/www.licoricegallery.com

• The Tom Flood Sports Arena is hidden away behind the trees in Bendigo, Central Victoria.
• Glen O'Shea does some polished work in-front of the camera to the amusement of his Madison partner Leigh Howard.
• Argentinian pair Juan Gaspari (L) and Sebastian Donadio will ride for the McCaig Air Conditioning team in the Bendigo Madison
• Tim Decker from Bendigo buries his head and works hard in his heat of the Gold and Opal Wheelrace.
• The sun begins to set on the Tom Flood Sports Arena in Bendigo on day one of the carnival.
• Yee hah! It's carnival time at the Bendigo Madison again.
• A section of the crowd that turned out in blistering heat for day one of the 2008 Bendigo Madison Carnival
• Hey Dad, don't forget this: 1993 Bendigo Madison winner David Maltby (won with Pat Marcucci) gets a helping hand from his sons
• The bell lap in Bendigo
• Jessica Berry (right) wins the women's 'A' Grade scratch race on day one.
• Roaring into the Madison Carnival on another form of two wheels
• Cam Winn complete with dreadlocks in his heat of the Golden Mile Wheelrace
• Kazuma Ima from Japan in his Tony Greig (World Series cricket) style crash helmet
• Tatsunori Kondo from Japan during his heat of the Golden Mile Wheelrace
• Encouragement from the outer for the Japanese riders in Bendigo
• Beth Duryea takes out the Women's Wheelrace from Emma Waldron and Melzy Feltham.
• Scott Keating punches the air to win the Gold and Opal Wheelrace final from Brett Rollinson and Matthew Smith.
• Action from the men's 'B' Grade scratch race on day one of the carnival in Bendigo
• A nasty fall ended the men's 'B' Grade scratch race towards the end of the night.
• Two Japanese riders fell heavily along with two others in the men's 'B' Grade scratch race.
• Riders lay on the track as chaos took over after a horrendous fall in the men's 'B' Grade scratch race.
• The second fall of the night delayed racing for almost an hour when four riders came down on the bend out of the home straight.
• This Japanese rider suffered the worst with facial injuries after hitting the fence at top speed.
• Glen O'Shea from Victoria drives the field in the men's 'A' Grade scratch race.
• South Australian Gene Bates and Queenslander Miles Olman (12) tried to sneak away from the field towards the end of the men's 'A' Grade scratch race.
• Jackson-Leigh Rathbone from New South Wales will be a rider to look out for when he partners Dale Scarf in the Bendigo Madison.
• Victorian Todd Wilksch takes out the men's 'A' Grade scratch race on the first night of the carnival.

Stage 1 - March 7: Bendigo Criterium, 40 laps

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Images by Shane Goss/www.licoricegallery.com

• Kate Bates (Team High Road) corners during the women's criterium in Bendigo
• Philippa Read leans her Giant into a bend during the women's 25 lap criterium around the streets of Bendigo's CBD
• Jessica Berry shows the way for the leading group during the women's criterium
• Kate Bates (Team High Road) takes out the women's criterium in Bendigo
• The women's podium (L-R): Jessica Berry (2nd), Kate Bates (1st), and Jenny MacPherson (3rd)
• Mmm, now what have we got here?
• The field string out in the home straight during the men's criterium in Bendigo
• The pace is on in the 50 lap men's criterium in Bendigo
• Cameron Meyer (left) of the South Australia.com/AIS outfit will be one of the riders to watch in Sunday night's madison
• Out of the saddle trying to keep a wheel in the men's criterium
• Adrian Hanson (38) accelerates into the home straight in Bendigo
• Mitchell Docker (Drapac Porsche), fresh from wearing the yellow jersey for a day in the recent Tour de Langkawi in Malaysia and now on the streets of Bendigo
• Kozaburo Watanabe gets well forward on the bike looking for more speed into the home straight
• The peloton wind their way down the home straight in Bendigo
• Glen O'Shea (Jayco/VIS) will partner Leigh Howard in one of the top fancied teams in Sunday's madison
• Travis Meyer (SouthAustralia.com/AIS) leads the peloton around a bend in Bendigo
• Svein Tuft has the home straight all to himself during his solo break from the peloton
• SouthAustralia.com/AIS riders are making their mark on the world cycling scene
• Will Dickeson (Savings and Loans) corners in the chasing pack on the streets of Bendigo
• The chasing peloton go in search of the sole lead rider in Svein Tuft
• Svein Tuft was continually on the attack during the early evening criterium in Bendigo
• David Pell (Savings and Loans) leads the peloton into a corner in Bendigo
• Sebastian Donadio from Argentina in the peloton in the later stages of the men's criterium
• Riders corner after catching Svein Tuft (Left, yellow), in the final laps of the men's criterium
• Zak Dempster (SouthAustralia.com/AIS) leads the peloton up the main street of Bendigo in Victoria
• Travis Meyer's race number dangles over his back wheel as he corners in Bendigo
• Brad Edmunds (Savings and Loans) leans into a bend during the men's criterium
• Chris Winn (74) keeps a close watch on the wheel ahead whilst cornering in Bendigo
• Man, what a great place to puncture! Oh well, at least I've got an audience
• Miles Olman (Drapac Porsche) attacks the peloton in the final laps of the men's criterium
• Nic Sanderson (Jelly Belly) attacks the field in the final laps and shows off his new colours of American outfit Jelly Belly
• Trying to hold the wheel with the pace a cracker in the concluding laps
• Travis Meyer (SouthAustralia.com/AIS) corners into the back staight and onto the main road of Bendigo
• Mitchell Docker (L) of Drapac Porsche gets ready to spread his wings and celebrate a close win over Savings and Loan's Brett Aitken
• Mitchell Docker (L) is congratulated by his Drapac Porsche teammate Miles Olman after his winning ride in Bendigo
• Svein Tuft was awarded the green jersey for the sprint points winner of the Bendigo Criterium
• The men's podium (L-R): Brett Aitken (Savings and Loans, 2nd), Mitchell Docker (Drapac Porsche, 1st), and Glen O'Shea (Jayco/VIS, 3rd)

Giro del Capo

Stage 4 - March 7: Old Hellshoogte Pass - Hellshoogte, 148km

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Images by Raymond Cox/http://www.mirra.co.za

• Jeremy Maartens (Team Neotel) with unzipped jersey due to the heat.
• The danger break that couldn't stay away with Malaya va Ruitenbeek of Kuota-Senges (left) and Robert Hunter (Barloworld).
• Burry Stander (Pro Mr Price WP) takes a left-hander at high speed.
• A Marco Polo rider in pursuit of the front runners.
• South African Neil Timm () Liqui Moly) coming through.
• Dominique Cornu (Silence-Lotto) wins the stage on a solo effort.
• The Belgian was totally exhausted after his effort in the 34-degree weather – not what a Belgian is used to in March.
• He wanted to take a nap while still on his bicycle, but had to go to the podium instead.

Stage 3 - March 6: Paarl - Paarl, 176km

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Images by Alex Rose-Innes

• Christian Pfannberger (Barloworld) sits comfortably in the peloton, with his pink jersey firmly attached.
• Victor Mironov (UCI World Cycling Centre) takes the intermediate sprint in Franshhoek.
• Waylon Woolcock of MTN grabs third place at the sprint in Franshhoek.

Images by Giro del Capo

• And the winner is ... Luke Roberts from Australia took the win in the third stage for his team, Team Kuota - Senges
• The peloton gets pretty strung out under a baking sun.

Vuelta a Murcia

Stage 4 - March 7: Alhama de Murcia - Aledo, 23.1km

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Images by Susanne Goetze/www.cyclinginside.com

• Alejandro Valverde Belmonte (Spa) Caisse d'Epargne as the leader.
• The leaders of the Tour.
• Francisco Perez Sanchez (Spa) Caisse d'Epargne.
• Samuel Sanchez Gonzalez (Spa) Euskaltel - Euskadi.
• Alejandro Valverde Belmonte (Spa) Caisse d'Epargne.
• Vladimir Karpets (Rus) Caisse d'Epargne.
• Thomas Dekker (Ned) Rabobank.
• Alberto Contador Velasco (Spa) Astana.
• Denis Menchov (Rus) Rabobank.
• Alejandro Valverde Belmonte (Spa) Caisse d'Epargne on the podium.

Stage 3 - March 6: Puerto Lumbreras - San Pedro del Pinatar, 146km

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Images by Susanne Goetze/www.cyclinginside.com

• Juan Jose Haedo (CSC) had time to celebrate after winning the sprint on stage three.
• Aitor Perez (Extremadura) kept the leader's jersey on stage three.
• Juan Jose Haedo (CSC) takes to the podium after winning stage three.
• JJ Haedo got a nice fat check for his stage win.
• The race podium got a bit crowded when all jersey holders and the stage winner got on board.
• Alejandro Valverde (Caisse d'Epargne) continues to hold the best regional rider classification.

Stage 2 - March 5: Calasparra - Totana, 152.5km

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Images by cyclinginside.com

• Thomas Dekker (Rabobank) before the start of the hilly second stage.
• The break is making its way up on the Collado.
• Graeme Brown (Rabobank) on the Collado which was the last day of the climb - good news for the Aussie!
• Chechu Rubiera riding up the Collado before eventually winning the race out of the small front group.
• Alexander Serov (Tinkoff Credit Systems) with the white jersey showing that he is the most points after two stages.

Stage 1 - March 4: San Pedro del Pinatar - Lorca, 197.3km

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Images by cyclinginside.com

• Graeme Brown (Rabobank) wins the sprint in the first stage in Murcia.
• Brown prevailed in windy conditions and made use of his skills riding in an echelon, which he had acquired rather recently, according to his DS Frans Maassen.
• The riders are getting ready for the first stage.
• Valverde is being asked where his cleats are.

Afxentia Stage Race

Stage 1 (also Sunshine Cup #2)

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Images by Armin M. Küstenbrück

• The start of the men's race for stage one.
• The men negotiate a steep descent during their cross country race.
• Roel Paulissen (Vredestein Cannondale) wins the men's race.
• Sabine Spitz (Central Ghost Pro Team) wins the women's race.

Stage 2

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Images by Armin M. Küstenbrück

• Magnus Darvell (Rietumu) puts his weight back for the steep downhill section.
• Roel Paulissen (Cannondale Vredestein) rides downhill to another victory in the time trial.
• Alexandra Engen (Merida / Sweden) on her way to a second place in the women's race.
• Tereza Hurikova (Czech National Team) is a former junior world time trial champion. She won stage two's time trial.

Stage 3 (Also Sunshine Cup #3)

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Images by Armin M. Küstenbrück

• The women's podium: Elisabeth Osl, Tereza Hurikova, Sabine Spitz, Petra Henzi, Alexandra Engen
• Sabine Spitz (Central Ghost Pro Team) on her way to the win.
• Start of the women's race for Sunshine Cup #3.
• Overall men's podium: Jaroslav Kulhavy, Roel Paulissen, Milan Spesny
• Stage three men's podium: Christoph Souku, Roel Paulissen, Jaroslav Kulhavy, Andreas Kugler, Milan Spesny
• Jaroslav Kulhavy leads Roel Paulissen in th men's race

Karapoti MTB Race

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Images by cycle-photos.com/www.cycle-photos.com

• The 2008 Karapoti Challenge gets underway.
• Stuart Houltham (Palmerston North) on his way to winning.
• Fiona Macdermid (Palmerston North) took out the pro women's race.

Photography

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Alessandro Vanotti (Liquigas)
• Davide Rebellin (Gerolsteiner) takes second for the day.
• Daniele Pietropolli (LPR Brakes) in the UCI Euro Pro Conti jersey.
• Daniele Pietropolli (LPR Brakes) over Baden Cooke (Barloworld).
• David Cañada (Saunier Duval-Scott)
• David Cañada (Saunier Duval-Scott) over Luca Pierfelici (Acqua Sapone-Caffè Mokambo).
• Leonardo Bertagnolli (Liquigas)
• Marco Bandiera (Lampre)
• Danilo Hondo (Serramenti PVC Diquigiovanni-Androni Giocattoli)
• Vladimir Duma (Ceramica Flaminia-Bossini Docce)
• Vladimir Duma (Ceramica Flaminia-Bossini Docce)
• Italian Davide Rebellin (Gerolsteiner) after finishing third.
• Davide Rebellin (Gerolsteiner) explains the race.
• Davide Rebellin (Gerolsteiner) looks pleased.
• Luca Mazzanti (Tinkoff Credit Systems)
• Marco Corti (Barloworld) after the race.
• Marco Corti (Barloworld) shows the day's efforts.
• Vladimir Duma (Ceramica Flaminia-Bossini Docce) in an early escape.
• Team Ceramica Flaminia-Bossini Docce looked good.
• Enrico Gasparotto (Barloworld) hammers along.
• The race goes through the start/finish.
• Baden Cooke (Barloworld) keeps an eye on affairs.
• An artist at work in Lugano.
• Art on display in Lugano.
• Bicycle-inspired art in Lugano.
• Beautiful paintings on display at the GP Lugano.
• Beñat Intxausti (Saunier Duval-Scott)
• Christian Pfannberger (Barloworld) powers along.
• Saunier Duval in action.
• Filippo Simeoni (Ceramica Flaminia-Bossini Docce)
• Nikita Eskov (Tinkoff Credit Systems)
• Paolo Bailetti (LPR Brakes)
• Enrico Gasparotto (Barloworld) checks his back.
• Dario Andriotto (Acqua Sapone-Caffè Mokambo)
• Beñat Intxausti (Saunier Duval-Scott)
• Michael Albasini (Liquigas)
• Massimiliano Mori (Lampre)
• Gabriele Missaglia (Serramenti PVC Diquigiovanni-Androni Giocattoli)
• Marco Corti (Barloworld)
• Rubens Bertogliati (Saunier Duval-Scott) racing at home.
• Saunier Duval-Scott rider
• Saunier Duval in action.
• Franco Pellizotti (Liquigas) looks concentrated.
• Marco Corti (Barloworld)
• Sandro Brambilla calls the race.
• A Saunier Duval rider racing along.
• Giovanni Visconti (Quick Step) flies the Italian colours.
• Rubens Bertogliati (Saunier Duval-Scott)
• John-Lee Augustyn (Barloworld)
• Race officials on a three-wheeled bike.
• Giovanni Visconti (Quick Step) gives it the gas.
• Alessandro Bertolini (Serramenti PVC Diquigiovanni-Androni Giocattoli) leads his team-mates.
• Rinaldo Nocentini (Ag2r-La Mondiale) wins.
• Rinaldo Nocentini (Ag2r-La Mondiale)
• Rinaldo Nocentini (Ag2r-La Mondiale) happy with this win.
• Rinaldo Nocentini (Ag2r-La Mondiale) salutes from the podium.
• Rinaldo Nocentini (Ag2r-La Mondiale) gives thanks to his team.
• Rinaldo Nocentini (Ag2r-La Mondiale) wins
• Rinaldo Nocentini (Ag2r-La Mondiale) with his first win of the season.
• Rinaldo Nocentini (Ag2r-La Mondiale) happy with the first win of 2008.
• Rinaldo Nocentini (Ag2r-La Mondiale) congratulated.
• Rinaldo Nocentini (Ag2r-La Mondiale) acknowledged by a team-mate.
• Rinaldo Nocentini (Ag2r-La Mondiale) tops the podium with Davide Rebellin (Gerolsteiner) (r) and Enrico Gasparotto (Barloworld).
• Rinaldo Nocentini (Ag2r-La Mondiale) lifts the trophy.
• Rinaldo Nocentini (Ag2r-La Mondiale) has a good view of the lakeside in Lugano.

Mitsubishi-Jartazi wild card without Vandenbroucke

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Frank Vandenbroucke (Mitsubishi-Jartazi) looks on as his team is presented.
• A relaxed Frank Vandenbroucke (Mitsubishi-Jartazi) at the beginning of the 2008 season.
• Belgian Frank Vandenbroucke (Mitsubishi-Jartazi) is making attention as his team cannot field him in ProTour races.

For more photos, please consult our archives.