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Cycling photography for March 2009

KBC-Driedaagse De Panne-Koksijde
Settimana Lombarda
Critérium International
E3 Prijs Vlaanderen
Redlands Classic
Dwars door Vlaanderen
Track Cycling World Championships
Castilla y Leon
Settimana Internazionale Coppi e Bartali
Costa Etrusca - Livorno
Cape Epic
Oceania MTB Champs
Milano-Sanremo
Classic Loire Atlantique
Nokere Koerse
Istrian Spring Trophy
South African National MTB Championships
Tirreno-Adriatico
Paris-Nice
Superprestigio Massi
Maremma Cup #2
Strade Bianche - Eroica
Tour de Taiwan
Giro del Friuli
Memorial Samyn
Vuelta Mexico Telmex

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.

KBC-Driedaagse De Panne-Koksijde

Stage 3b - April 2: De Panne - Koksijde - De Panne (ITT), 14.75km

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Images by AFP Photo

• Bradley Wiggins (Garmin-Slipstream) took the win on the final time trial.

Images by Bjorn Haake/Cyclingnews.com

• Bradley Wiggins (Garmin - Slipstream) holds the bounty of his winning time trial ride.
• Bradley Wiggins salutes the crowd from atop the podium in De Panne.
• Frederik Willems (Liquigas) brings his child onto the podium.
• Race winner Frederik Willems (Liquigas) shares his Driedaagse De Panne victory with his child.
• Stijn Devolder (Quick Step) talks to the press.

Images by Stijn Vercaemer /www.cyclingview.be

• Local hero Andy Cappelle (Palmans) was the first starter in the time trial.
• Slovakian rider Simon Spilak (Lampre) isn't a time trial specialist, he finished in 94th place today.
• Canadian time trial champion Svein Tuft (Garmin - Slipstream) finished in the top 10 today in seventh place.
• Johan Coenen (Topsport Vlaanderen).
• Borut Bozic (Vacansoleil) rode a good time trial today and finished in sixth place on general classification.
• Former German champion Sebastian Lang is now riding for the Silence - Lotto squad.
• The time trial wasn't long enough for world time trial champion Bert Grabsch (Columbia - Highroad) and he finished in fifth place.
• The winner of stage 2 and 3a Mark Cavendish (Columbia - Highroad) turns on the speed for his last three kilometres of his time trial.
• Kevin Van Impe (Quick-Step) finished in place 12th place today after finishing 11th in the Paris-Nice time trial.
• A Fuji - Servetto rider gives all he's got.
• Leif Hoste (Silence - Lotto) didn't ride a great time trial today but he will be good in the Tour of Flanders next Sunday.
• The flying Dutchman Joost Posthuma (Rabobank) was the winner of the time trial last year.
• Frederik Willems (Liquigas) is the winner of this year's edition of KBC-Driedaagse De Panne-Koksijde.

Images by Tom De Meyer/www.tomdemeyer.be

• Canadian national TT champ Svein Tuft had a good day, finishing in seventh.
• Marcin Sapa (Lampre).
• Stijn Devolder had a commanding performance and finished in third.
• Bradley Wiggins (Garmin-Slipstream) on his way to winning the stage.
• Kevin Van Impe (Quick Step) rode well to finish 12th.
• Columbia-Highroad's Mark Cavendish took an impressive top 20 result.
• Enrico Franzoi (Lampre) didn't set the world on fire, finishing 35th.
• Phillipe Gilbert took 25th.
• Leif Hoste (Silence-Lotto) showed he's on the mend with a solid ride.
• Liquigas' Manuel Quinziato.
• Joost Posthuma (Rabobank) displayed some great form to finish fourth.
• Maartijn Maaskant (Gramin-Slipstream) is tuning up for the Northern Classics.
• Frederik Willems (Liquigas) en route to overall victory.

Images by Tim Van Wichelen /www.cyclingview.be

• Svein Tuft, ready to go and get a top 10.
• Stijn Devolder showed his hand today on the way to third.
• Garmin-Slipstream's Bradley Wiggins was satisfied with his result.
• Bradley Wiggins (Garmin-Slipstream) got that elusive TT win.
• Manuel Quinziato gave it all he had to take 28th.
• Joost Posthuma (Rabobank) is in ominous form.
• Borut Bozic (Vacansoleil) on his way to 32nd.
• Frederik Willems (Liquigas) took the overall victory.

Stage 3a - April 2: De Panne - De Panne, 112km

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Images by AFP Photo

• Mark Cavendish (Columbia-Highroad), l, wins the third stage of the Driedaagse De Panne over Robbie McEwen (Katusha).

Images by Bjorn Haake/Cyclingnews.com

• Svein Tuft (Garmin-Slipstream) was smiles again at the finish, despite crashing heavily in the end.
• Cavendish won the third stage and scored two back-to-back wins like last year.
• Frederik Willems (Liquigas) took over the leader's white jersey thanks to a crash of Filippo Pozzato (Katusha)
• Cavendish took over the green jersey of best sprinter.

Images by Stijn Vercaemer /www.cyclingview.be

• These leading four go into the last lap including former Belgian champion Geert Omloop (Palmans).
• Jurgen Van De Walle and Stijn Devolder (Quick-Step) leading the peloton into the final lap.
• Stijn Devolder (Quick-Step)
• Russian champion Sergui Ivanov and his Katusha teammate Filippo Pozzato are ready for the Tour of Flanders next Sunday.
• A Topsport Vlaanderen rider rides through the streets of De Panne in the third stage of the Drieedaagse De Panne.
• Some BBox Bouygues Telecom riders in action.
• It’s been a hard race for this rider on the back of the peloton.
• A Skil-Shimano rider in a bad mood after crashing on the last lap.
• This Columbia - Highroad rider is in a good mood after the second victory of his teammate Cavendish.
• Landbouwkrediet rider Dennis Flahaut looked tired after the finish of the third stage.
• Svein Tuft (Slipstream) hade a bad crash on the last lap.
• One of the early leaders of the day Bjorn Coomans (Palmans).
• Another victim of the crash. Look at the jersey of David Deroo (Skil-Shimano).

Images by Tim Van Wichelen /www.cyclingview.be

• Silence-Lotto's Greg Van Avermaet waits for the start.
• Quick Step rider Kevin Van Impe was in a jovial mood.
• Pozatto waits for the start and has a little time for some pondering.
• With eight kilometres to go the four leaders only had a couple of seconds' advantage.
• Quick Step was chasing hard to get its man to the sprint.
• Again it was Cavendish and McEwen in a close sprint.
• The Apprentice prevails over the Master as Cavendish wins again.
• Filippo Pozatto managed to smile despite having a tough day.
• Cavendish salutes from the podium yet again.
• Frederik Willems is the new leader as Pozatto lost time due to a crash in the peloton.
• Tom Boonen speaks ahead of the Ronde van Vlaanderen
• The Ronde van Vlaanderen press conference featured Tom Boonen in his usual amiable mood.

Stage 2 - April 1: Zottegem - Oostduinkerke, 219km

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Images by AFP Photo

• Mark Cavendish (Columbia-Highroad) gets back to his winning ways on stage two.

Images by Bjorn Haake/Cyclingnews.com

• The drawings at the start also featured Spartacus Cancellara, who will ride the Ronde after all.
• Yesterday's winner Pippo "Sunnyboy" Pozzato.
• Robert Förster (Milram) is happy that the sprinters will get to the front.
• Philippe Gilbert (Silence - Lotto) sucks on a drink before the start.
• Gregory Henderson (Columbia - Highroad) after signing in.
• Steve Chainel (Bbox Bouygues Telecom) is all smiles after a good start to the season.
• Michele Merlo (Barloworld) won the mountain jersey yesterday.
• Paul Voss (Milram) raced the Belgian races with former team Lamonta and knows the course well.
• The racers set off from Zottegem.
• The flag shows the peloton that there is a lot of wind again.
• The break on the Tiegemberg.
• Klaas Lodewyck (Topsport Vlaanderen-Mercator) leads the break on the Tiegemberg, ahead of Marcin Sapa (Lampre-NGC).
• View from the rear up the Tiegemberg.
• Marcel Sieberg on the front of the peloton up the Tiegemberg.
• Julien Belgy (BBox Bouygues Telecom) had some trouble on the Tiegemberg and was back in the team cars.
• Sieberg leads the bunch with 26km to go.

Images by Tim Van Wichelen/www.CyclingView.be

• Sebastian Lang (Silence-Lotto) checks his computer at the start.
• Liquigas' Frederik Willems waits with the other riders to start.
• The peloton rolls out of Zottegem for the start of stage two.
• The early breakaway on Tiegemberg included Marcin Sapa (Lampre-NGC), Klaas Lodewyck (Topsport Vlaanderen-Mercator) and Andy Cappelle (Palmans Cras).
• As the peloton reached Tiegemberg the lead group were 10 minutes down the road.
• With three laps remaining there were still three riders ahead.
• Columbia-Highroad and Katusha worked hard to bring the leaders back.
• The peloton starts its second last lap of the finishing loop.
• With one lap to go there was only 15 seconds left between the leaders and the peloton.
• The final sprint came down to Robbie McEwen (Katusha) and Mark Cavendish (Columbia-Highroad).
• Mark Cavendish (Columbia-Highroad) was too quick for Aussie Robbie McEwen (Katusha).
• Mark Cavendish (Columbia-Highroad) showed why he considers himself to be the number one sprinter.
• Filippo Pozzato (Katush) didn't contest the sprint but continues to lead the race.
• Greg Van Avermaet (Silence-Lotto) leads the points classification.

Images by Stijn Vercaemer/www.CyclingView.be

• Kristof Goddaert (Topsort Vlaanderen) was one of the three riders in the leading group.
• Team Katusha leading the peloton
• Jurgen Van De Walle and Kevin De Weert (Quick-Step) in the peloton.
• Former Dwars door Vlaanderen winner Kevin Van Impe (Quick-Step)
• Some of the Milram guys hang out the back of the peloton.

Stage 1 - March 31: Middelkerke - Zottegem, 199km

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Images by Bjorn Haake/Cyclingnews.com

• Inliners were out today as bicycles took over Middelkerke.
• Gotta have your Duvel packed for a long stage with lots of climbs.
• Geert Omloop (Palmans Cras) opted for two sets of glasses for a better overview.
• Hilton Clarke (Fuji-Servetto) is happy to be racing in the big ProTour now.
• The Milram bikes with striped handlebar tape.
• Baden Cooke (Vacansoleil) is racing for the first time since being sick.
• Jürgen Roelandts (Silence-Lotto) had an unlucky start to the season including food poisoning and crashes.
• Mark Cavendish (Columbia - Highroad) loves racing in Belgium.
• Wouter Weylandt (Quick Step) hopes to win a stage.
• Weylandt and Tom Boonen share a laugh ahead of the stage.
• Matteo Tosatto (Quick Step) leads the peloton with 44km to go.
• Robbie McEwen (Katusha) pedals through but at this point the chance of a field sprint have vanished - the peloton is three minutes behind.
• Amica Chips demonstrates a high-speed feed.

Images by AFP Photo

• Tom Boonen (Quick Step) leads Kevin Van Impe (Quick Step) in stage one of the KBC-Driedaagse De Panne-Koksijde.
• Italian Filippo Pozzato (Katusha) wins KBC-Driedaagse De Panne-Koksijde stage one ahead of Frederik Willems (Liquigas).

Images by Tim Van Wichelen/www.CyclingView.be

• Robbie McEwen (Team Katusha) has some fun with Mark Cavendish (Columbia-Highroad) before the stage.
• The long and short of Quick Step. Sprinters Wouter Weylandt and Tom Boonen measure one another up before the stage.
• Philippe Gilbert (Silence-Lotto) looked happy to recieve his goodie bag.
• An initial six-man break was caught after the Leberg with less than 70 km to race.
• The peloton enjoyed very good weather during the opening stage.
• Filippo Pozzato (Team Katusha) made easy work of Belgian Frederik Willems (Liquigas) in the final sprint.
• Belgian Greg Van Avermaet (Silence-Lotto) won the tightly contested sprint for third place.
• Italy's Filippo Pozzato (Team Katusha) with the leader's jersey following his opening stage win.

Settimana Lombarda

Stage 4 - April 3: Vertova - Vertova, 183.6km

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Images by Settimana Ciclista Lombarda

• Alessandro Petacchi (LPR Brakes - Farnese Vini) wins the fourth stage, his second win of the Settimana Ciclista Lombarda.
• The peloton entered the mountains during stage four.

Stage 3 - April 2: Boltiere - Zingonia, 164km

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Images by Settimana Ciclista Lombarda

• Mattia Gavazzi (Diquigiovanni-Androni) wins stage three of the Settimana Ciclista Lombarda

Stage 2 - April 1: Brignano Gera d'Adda - Calcinate, 160km

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Images by Settimana Ciclista Lombarda

• Alessandro Petacchi (LPR Brakes) wins the second stage to extend his lead in the overall.

Critérium International

Stage 3 - March 29: Charleville-Mézières - Charleville-Mézières, ITT, 8.3km

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Images by AFP Photo

• Frantisek Rabon (Columbia-High Road) gave Voigt a scare, but came up short by two seconds.
• Danny Pate (Garmin-Slipstream) did an excellent ride to finish on the podium.
• Jens Voigt gave it all in his typical labour style.
• He was exhausted but won the overall by two seconds.
• A happy Jens Voigt has now as many victories as record holder Raymond Poulidor – five.
• The podium with Pate (l) in third, winner Voigt in the middle and runner-up Rabon.
• The podium after the final stage of the 78th Critérium International.

Redlands Classic

Stage 3 - March 29: Sunset Road Race, 105.8/146.5km

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Images by John Devich/ Jonathan Devich/

• Amber Neben (Nürnberger) and Ina Yoko-Teutenberg have a chat on the start line.
• The women roll out of downtown for the Sunset loop.
• The pack started to thin out not long after the start.
• Mara Abbott (Columbia-Highroad) put in a hard effort for the team all week.
• Colavita comes to the front to bring back a break.
• Still together the next time up the climb.
• Amber Neben (Nürnberger) came so close to taking the overall.
• Going hard up Sunset.
• Attacking more of the rolling hills along the course.
• The women get ready to head to the finish back down below.
• Amber Neben (Nürnberger) keeps the pressure on the front of the bunch.
• Alison Powers (Team Type 1) took the final stage in the women's race.
• Ina Yoko-Tuetenberg (Columbia-Highroad) took over the yellow leaders jersey, with Amber Neben (Nürnberger) second on GC, Alison Powers (Team Type 1) third and Tiffany Cromwell (Colavita) takes home the mountain jersey.
• And the men are off.
• BMC went hard right from the gun.
• A break gets away early in the day.
• BMC stays on the front to cover the attacks.
• Rory Sutherland (OUCH) gets to the front.
• A second group forms as the field splits.
• The main field splits.
• Jeff Louder (BMC) making it through the technical course.
• Their isn't much flat in Redlands.
• BMC still working hard on the front.
• Tim Johnson (OUCH) gets off the front.
• Peter Stetina (Garmin) tries to get away from the front group.
• Rolling through scenic Redlands.
• Chris Baldwin (Rock Racing) tries to split the front of the main group.
• Ben Day (Fly V Australia) leads another attack as the race comes back into downtown.
• Kyle Wamsley (Colavita) gets encouragement from the crowds as he goes solo with 4 small laps to go.
• Tim Johnson (OUCH) sitting on the front again to bring back the break. .
• Kyle Wamsley (Colavita Sutter Home) claims the final stage win.
• Kyle Wamsley (Colavita) celebrates his win.
• Jeff Louder (BMC) in yellow with Kyle Wamsley (Colavita) holding onto the sprint jersey and Kirk Carlsen (Garmin) with keeps the mountain jersey.
• The Garmin-Holoweko Partners-Felt team goes home as the top team in Redlands.

Images by Mitch Clinton/www.clintonphoto.com

• Amber Neben ((Nürnberger Shoair)
• Alison Powers (Team Type 1) wins the stage on the final stage.
• Jeff Louder (BMC) in yellow.
• Kirk Carlsen (Garmin) held onto the jersey of best climber.
• Karl Menzies (OUCH) leads Burke Swindlehurst (Bissell) through the S turn
• Kyle Wamsley (Colavita Sutter Home) takes the stage.
• Jeff Louder (BMC) is congratulated by his teammate after winning the overall classification.
• The Garmin-Holoweko Partners-Felt team celebrates after taking home the teams GC.
• The Garmin-Holoweko Partners-Felt team on the podium after winning the teams GC.

Images by Kathleen Clinton/www.clintonphoto.com

• Alison Powers (Team Type 1) sits comfortably near the front of the pack
• The women's field crests the climb.
• Amber Neben (Nürnberger Shoair) couldn't quite fend off the charge of sprinter Ina Teutenberg to hold onto her lead.
• Jeff Louder (BMC) on the descent during the final stage.

Stage 2 - March 28: Downtown Criterium, 60/90min

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Images by Jonathan Devich/

• Alex Wrubleski (Columbia) who won last year's race works for her new team this year.
• No breaks got away with the high pace at the front.
• The group heads towards the last turn.
• Ina Yoko-Teutenberg (Columbia) clawing her way closer to the yellow jersey.
• The women's field rolls down the back side of the course.
• Amber Neben (Nurnberger) remains in the lead heading into the last stage.
• Tina Pic (Colavita) stayed close to the front.
• Colavita gets on the front to try and set things up.
• Ina Yoko-Teutenberg (Columbia) wins her second consecutive victory.
• The men roll out.
• The men's field passes by the mid-course pit.
• Heading down towards the pits.
• A break starts to get up the road.
• The break gets just out of site of the field.
• BMC gets on the front to bring the break closer.
• Kirk Carlsen (Garmin) sitting towards the front and was able to hold onto the mountain jersey.
• Another attack gets a gap on the field.
• BMC still sitting on the front.
• Riders spread out on the course.
• Tyler Wren (Colavita) works his way up in the bunch.
• Jeff Louder (BMC) making it through the technical course.
• Michael Grabinger (Fly V Australia) had a hard day in the wind yesterday working for the team.
• A bird's eye view of the break.
• Jackson Stewart (BMC) getting ready for the big finish.
• Will Routley (Jelly Belly) went into todays stage holding onto the sprint jersey.
• Jelly Belly gets on the front to set things up for the sprint.
• Kirk O'Bee (Bissell) gets some help from the fans during his late race attack.
• Colavita winds things up with one lap to go.
• The bunch has Kirk O'Bee in its sites.
• Jackson Stewart (BMC) got the win with Andrew Pinfold (OUCH) second and Brent Bookwalter (BMC) third.
• Jackson Stewart (BMC) wins stage two downtown criterium.

Images by Mitch Clinton/www.clintonphoto.com

• Team TIBCO patrols the front of the peloton.
• Amber Neben (Nürnberger Shoair) took 10th on the day.
• Ina-Yoko Teutenberg (Team Columbia Highroad) was again the strongest.
• Amber Neben (Nürnberger Shoair) held the race lead on the final day.
• Ina-Yoko Teutenberg (Team Columbia Highroad) won another stage in the Redlands Classic.
• Chris Baldwin (Rock Racing) looking composed.
• Team BMC was an army of black and white on the front.
• Team BMC controlled proceedings on its way to the stage win.
• Will Routley (Jelly Belly)
• Kirk O'Bee (Bissell Pro Cycling) off the front with two laps to go.
• Jackson Stewart (BMC Racing Team) gets a well-deserved stage win.

Stage 1 - March 27: Beaumont Circuit Race, 110/138km

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Images by Jonathan Devich/

• Team Tibco gets riders to the front of the break to keep things moving.
• The main field gets a little spread out before they chase down the break.
• Mara Abbott (Columbia-Highroad) sitting comfortably in her red climbers jersey.
• Emilia Fahlin (Columbia-Highroad) launches an attack off the bunch.
• The women's field at the base of the KOM climb.
• Mid-race the break seemed like it was going to stay away.
• Ina Yoko-Teutenburg (Columbia-Highroad) waiting patiently for her moment to pounce.
• Amber Neben (Nürnberger) gets to hold onto her leader jersey for another day.
• Ina Yoko-Teutenburg (Columbia-Highroad) takes a close win over second place finisher Tina Pic (Colavita) .
• The men get rolling early in the day.
• Mountains in the distance around Beaumont were pretty scenic.
• The men take a breather before the attacks start to fly.
• Ben King (Trek-Livestrong) launches an attack and ended up getting up to a 2 minute gap.
• The men's bunch comes through together again.
• Heading into the feed zone.
• Fly V-Australia/Succesful Living spent most of the race on the front to protect the leaders jersey.
• The bunch heads back through the more urban part of the course.
• Rock Racing comes to the front after getting a rider up the road.
• Fly V-Australia stacked on the front to bring back the break.
• Heading back towards the mountains.
• The attacks start to fly on the last lap.
• Fly V-Australia still working to maintain control heading up to the KOM.
• Jeff Louder (BMC) leads the break in for the win.
• Jeff Louder (BMC) goes into tomorrow's stage with the yellow jersey and the sprint leader jersey, while Kirk Carlsen (Garmin) wears the mountain jersey.

Images by Mitch Clinton/www.clintonphoto.com

• Mara Abbott (Columbia-Highroad)
• Amber Neben (Nürnberger Shoair) is followed by Ina Yoko Teutenberg (Columbia-Highroad)
• Ina Yoko Teutenberg (Columbia-Highroad) wins the stage
• Benjamin King (Trek-Livestrong) spent some time off the front.
• Fly V drives the front of the pack
• A break with less than 15 miles to go
• The field
• Jeff Louder (BMC) wins the sprint

Prologue - March 26: Prologue, 5km

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Images by Jonathan Devich/

• American Mara Abbott (Columbia Highroad) claimed second place on the prologue, 27 seconds behind.
• Ina Yoko Teutenberg (Columbia Highroad) was also on the podium, but Amber Neben was too strong for the Columbia riders.
• Amber Neben (Nurnberger Shoair) made the Columbia women take the high road, as she won the prologue.
• Fly V Australia/Successful Living's Ben Day was flying, just not in Australia. The rider claimed his second prologue victory in as many weeks.
• Tom Zirbel (Bissell Pro Cycling) put in another solid time trial to finish third.
• Men's podium (L-R): Brent Bookwalter (BMC Racing Team), Ben Day (Fly V Australia/Successful Living) and Tom Zirbel (Bissell Pro Cycling).
• Andrea Dvorak (Colavita) on her way up the climb.
• Robin Farina (Value Act Capitol).
• Rachel Heal (Colavita).
• Alex Wrubleski (Columbia) was last year's winner.
• Amber Rais (TIBCO).
• Samantha Schneider (Team Type 1).
• Katherine Carroll (TIBCO) looks up towards the finish.
• Riders near the turn at the 500-meter mark.
• Erinne Willock (Webcor) nearing the top of the course.
• Emilia Fahlin (Columbia) heads to the top.
• Kathryn Mattis (Webcor).
• Kim Anderson (Columbia) being tracked by world champ Amber Neben (Nurnburger Shoair).
• Amber Neben (Nürnberger Versicherung) on the way to the win.
• Rory Sutherland (OUCH) had a good ride today for 7th place and only :19 back.
• Brent Bookwalter (BMC) had a great ride on the 5K course for second place.
• Ben Jacques-Maynes (Bissell) coming through at 13 seconds back.
• Floyd Landis (OUCH) tackling the steep section.
• Mike Creed (Rock Racing).
• Tim Johnson (OUCH) fights it out near the top.
• Chris Wherry (Hotel San Jose).
• Davide Frattini (Colavita) making good time.
• Riders get spread out on the course.
• Burke Swindlehurst (Bissell) going hard near the end.
• Luis Amaran (Colavita) was well within the top 10 today at 22 seconds back.
• Rahsaan Bahati (Rock Racing) will be looking for big results in the crit on Saturday.
• Bobby Sweeting (Land Rover-Orbea) passes by towards the end of the day.
• Tom Zirbel (Bissell) passes the 1K to go mark.
• Gina Grain (Webcor) seemed to be having a good time during the TT.
• Guy East (Trek-Livestrong).
• Chris Hong (Bobs Bicycles).
• Alejandro Borrajo (Colavita) turns a corner cloer to the finish.
• Brian Forbes (Ride Clean).
• Chad Beyer (BMC).
• Rand Miller (Webcor).

Images by Mitch Clinton/www.clintonphoto.com

• Mara Abbott (Columbia Highroad) wasn't able to repeat her 2008 victory.
• Ina YokoTeutenberg (Columbia Highroad) claimed thrid place.
• Amber Neben (Nurnberger Shoair) passes Kimberely Anderson (Columbia Highroad)
• Brent Bookwalter (BMC Racing Team) was just four seconds behind Ben Day.
• Ben Day (Fly V Australia/Successful Living) put in an impressive ride to claim victory.
• Chris Baldwin (Rock Racing) just missed out on a podium finish by two seconds.
• Tom Zirbel (Bissell Pro Cycling) was seven seconds down in third place.
• A happy Ben Day (Fly V Australia/Successful Living) in the leader's jersey.

Dwars door Vlaanderen

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Images by AFP Photo

• Kevin Van Impe (Quick Step) gets the victory in the Dwars door Vlaanderen

Images by Tim Van Wichelen/www.CyclingView.be

• The race conditions were very difficult as the race reached Zingem, with lots of wind and rain.
• An early breakaway of about 10 riders got away on the Katteberg climb.
• Kevin Van Impe (Quick Step) on the Katteberg climb.
• Sylvain Chavanel (Quick Step) on the Kwaremont climb.
• Heinrich Haussler (Cervelo Test Team) was again in very good shape.
• Tom Boonen (Quick Step) looked to be having a tough day on the bike.
• Leif Hoste's Silence-Lotto squad went without a victory again today.
• Jeremy Hunt (Cervelo Test Team) and Sebastien Chavanel (Française Des Jeux) ride side-by-side.
• Gert Steegmans (Katusha)
• Niko Eeckhout (An Post - Sean Kelly Team) with Belgian champion Jürgen Roelandts (Silence-Lotto) and Markus Burghardt (Columbia-High Road).
• Kevin de Weert was part of the very strong Quick Step team in the Dwars door Vlaanderen.

Castilla y Leon

Stage 2 - March 24: Palencia - Palencia, ITT, 28.2km

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Images by AFP Photo

• US champion David Zabriskie (Garmin-Slipstream) took third to the pair of Astana riders.
• Denis Menchov (Rabobank) put in a strong performance to take fifth behind teammate Stef Clement.
• Alberto Contador (Astana) showed he can time trial over a longer distance taking second to Leipheimer after winning the Paris-Nice prologue earlier in the month.
• Levi Leipheimer (Astana) took the overall lead with his time trial effort.
• Levi Leipheimer (Astana) on his way to the stage win.

Images by Jacinto Vidarte/Castilla y León

• Levi Leipheimer (Astana) on his winning ride in stage two of the Castilla y León.
• Alberto Contador (Astana) rides in the Castilla y León.
• Spaniard Alberto Contador (Astana)
• USA's Levi Leipheimer (Astana) rides to a win in Castilla y León stage two.
• Alberto Contador (Astana) with Miguel Indurain.
• Levi Leipheimer, five-time Tour de France winner Miguel Indurain and Alberto Contador after the stage two time trial
• Astana's Levi Leipheimer and Alberto Contador watch the other riders' placings at the Castilla y León.

Stage 1 - March 23: Paredes De Nava - Baltanás, 168.3km

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Images by AFP Photo

• Joaquin Sobrino (Burgos Monumental - Castilla y Leon) takes the sprint.
• Joaquin Sobrino (Burgos Monumental - Castilla y Leon) is thrilled to score a win for the regional team.
• Alberto Contador (Astana) was in high demand for autographs at the start of stage one.
• Lance Armstrong did not finish the stage after crashing and possibly breaking his shoulder or collarbone.
• Lance Armstrong (Astana) left Europe after just two days of competitive racing since his return to European cycling with a broken collarbone.
• Not happy Lance: Lance Armstrong (Astana) crashed out of Vuelta a Castilla y León during the first stage.

Images by Jacinto Vidarte/Castilla y León

• Lance Armstrong and Alberto Contador (Astana) at the start of the Castilla y León.
• Francisco Mancebo (Rock Racing)

Settimana Internazionale Coppi e Bartali

Stage 5 - March 28: Scandiano - Sassuolo, 178.5km

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Images by Sirotti/www.sirotti.it

• Austrian champion Christian Pfannberger (Katusha) forces the pace on the Montegibbio ascent.
• Cadel Evans (Silence - Lotto) times his bike throw to perfection to win the sprint ahead of Damiano Cunego (Lampre - N.G.C.) and Giovanni Visconti (ISD).
• Cadel Evans (Silence - Lotto) outsprinted Damiano Cunego (Lampre - N.G.C.) to win the final stage of the Coppi e Bartali.
• Cadel Evans (Silence - Lotto) won the final stage ahead of Damiano Cunego (Lampre - N.G.C.), left, and Giovanni Visconti (ISD), right.
• Damiano Cunego (Lampre - N.G.C.) is ecstatic about his overall victory on the podium in Sassuolo.
• Damiano Cunego (Lampre - N.G.C.) hoists the Coppi e Bartali trophy overhead for the second time in his career.

Stage 4 - March 27: Massa Finalese - Finale Emilia, 162.8km

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Images by Sirotti/www.sirotti.it

• Coppi e Bartali stage four approaches the line.
• Ukraine's Yuri Mitlushenko (Amore & Vita-McDonald's) edges out in front.
• Yuri Mitlushenko (Amore & Vita-McDonald's) celebrates his first of 2009.
• Ukrainian Yuri Mitlushenko (Amore & Vita-McDonald's) wins over Danilo Napolitano (Katusha).
• Yuri Mitlushenko (Amore & Vita-McDonald's) with win number one of the 2009 season thanks to the Coppi e Bartali stage four.
• Coppi e Bartali stage four: Yuri Mitlushenko (Amore & Vita-McDonald's) takes the win.
• Francesco Chicchi (Liquigas)
• Danilo Napolitano (Katusha)
• Yuri Mitlushenko (Amore & Vita-McDonald's)
• Cadel Evans (Silence-Lotto)

Stage 3 - March 26: Borgo San Lorenzo - Serramazzoni, 163.4km

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Images by Sirotti/www.sirotti.it

• Damiano Cunego (Lampre-NGC) charges up the final climb with Cadel Evans (Silence-Lotto) chasing.
• Italy's Damiano Cunego (Lampre-NGC) looks at his rivals.
• Damiano Cunego (Lampre-NGC) tops Cadel Evans (Silence-Lotto) in the sprint for the win of Coppi e Bartali stage three.
• Italian Damiano Cunego (Lampre-NGC) takes his second stage win in the 2009 Coppi e Bartali.
• New leader Damiano Cunego (Lampre-NGC)
• Katusha's Christian Pfannberger attacks on a climb late in the stage.
• Miguel Rubiano Chavez leads the elite selection that formed during the stage.
• Cunego dictated proceedings in the final kilometres of the stage.
• Riccardo Riccò will be back this time next year, and arrived to eye out the stage.
• Damiano Cunego makes some time to sign autographs.
• The Camiooro-A Style boys wait for the start.
• Columbia-Highroad rider Kanstantsin Siutsou patrols the front of the peloton.
• Cunego (l) and Pfannberger push the pace in the small escape group.
• Damiano Cunego punished the compeition on the stage to Serramazzoni.

Stage 2 - March 25: San Lazzaro - Faenza, 182.1km

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Images by Sirotti/www.sirotti.it

• Juan Mauricio Soler (Barloworld) climbs Monte Trebbio in the lead group on his way to a ninth place finish.
• Damiano Cunego (Lampre - N.G.C.) and Jose Serpa (Diquigiovanni -Androni Giocattoli) separated themselves from the nine-man lead group with 20 kilometres to go.
• Damiano Cunego (Lampre - N.G.C.) outsprints Jose Serpa (Diquigiovanni -Androni Giocattoli) to win stage 2 in Faenza.
• Damiano Cunego (Lampre - N.G.C.) has won the second stage ahead of breakaway companion Jose Serpa (Diquigiovanni -Androni Giocattoli).
• Damiano Cunego (Lampre - N.G.C.) climbs Monte Trebbio ahead of Jose Serpa (Diquigiovanni -Androni Giocattoli) and Robert Kiserlovski (Amica Chips - Knauf).
• Jose Serpa (Diquigiovanni -Androni Giocattoli) ramps up the pace on the lower slopes of Monte Trebbio.
• Damiano Cunego (Lampre - N.G.C.) leads Jose Serpa (Diquigiovanni -Androni Giocattoli) on Monte Trebbio.
• Damiano Cunego (Lampre - N.G.C.) ups the pace on Monte Trebbio while Cadel Evans (Silence - Lotto) looks back to assess the break's progress.
• Cadel Evans (Silence-Lotto) climbs Monte Trebbio on his way to a fourth place finish in Faenza.
• Defending champion Cadel Evans (Silence-Lotto) ascends Monte Trebbio in the lead group.
• Giovanni Visconti (ISD) attacks on the ascent of Monte Trebbio.
• Giovanni Visconti (ISD) wears the leader's jersey after finishing in third place on stage 2.
• Barloworld riders stretch across the road in an echelon.
• Race leader Oscar Gatto (ISD) follows the wheels of his teammates during stage 2.
• ISD controls the peloton for race leader Oscar Gatto.
• Riders were pleased to race in the sunshine after a rainy opening day.
• The peloton passes by a vineyard on its way to the stage finish in Faenza.
• Damiano Cunego (Lampre - N.G.C.) tops the podium with Jose Serpa (Diquigiovanni - Androni Giocattoli) and Giovanni Visconti (ISD), l&r.

Stage 1b - March 24: Misano Adriatico, ITT, 14.3km

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Images by Sirotti/www.sirotti.it

• Miche - Silver Cross hammers over the wet roads in stage 1b of the Coppi e Bartali.
• Acqua & Sapone-Caffè Mokambo rode to seventh in Coppi e Bartali stage 1b.
• Acqua & Sapone-Caffè Mokambo's close formation
• ISD on its winning ride, 17:17, in stage 1b of the Coppi e Bartali.
• Andriy Grivko leads ISD
• Diquigiovanni-Androni Giocattoli manages the wet roads to finish 11th in the Coppi e Bartali stage 1b team time trial.
• Fabian Cancellara (Saxo Bank) with his teammates in stage 1b of the Coppi e Bartali.
• Russian powerhouse: Katusha hammers over the wet roads.
• Team Lampre
• Cadel Evans (Silence-Lotto) leads his Belgian team.
• Columbia lined out in the rain. Marco Pinotti in the Italian tricolore.
• Team Columbia
• Amore & Vita-McDonald's team car.
• CarmioOro - A-Style heads out on a wet TTT parcours.
• Ceramica Flaminia-Bossini Docce
• ISD tops the day's podium in Coppi e Bartali stage 1b
• Party time for team ISD at the end of the Coppi e Bartali team time trial.
• Oscar Gatto (ISD) takes over the Coppi e Bartali lead.

Stage 1a - March 24: Riccione - Riccione, 81.2km

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Images by Sirotti/www.sirotti.it

• Cadel Evans (Silence-Lotto) appears cool and relaxed.
• Italian Damiano Cunego (Lampre-NGC)
• Danilo Napolitano (Katusha) after a hard day's work.
• Riders start the finishing circuit in the Coppi e Bartali stage 1a.
• The group lined out in stage 1a.
• Riders in the Coppi e Bartali.
• The sprint approaches with Danilo Napolitano (Katusha) at the front.
• Marko Kump (Adria Mobil) and Danilo Napolitano (Katusha) fight for the win.
• Enrico Rossi (Ceramica Flaminia-Bossini Docce), Marko Kump (Adria Mobil) and Danilo Napolitano (Katusha) hit the line in Coppi e Bartali stage 1a.
• Danilo Napolitano (Katusha) takes the win in the opening stage of the Coppi e Bartali.
• Italy's Danilo Napolitano (Katusha) wins in Riccione, at the Coppi e Bartali stage 1a.
• Danilo Napolitano (Katusha) on the podium.
• Danilo Napolitano (Katusha) tops the podium with Marko Kump (Adria Mobil) and Enrico Rossi (Ceramica Flaminia-Bossini Docce), l & r.
• Danilo Napolitano (Katusha) takes the leader's jersey in the Coppi e Bartali.
• Enrico Rossi (Ceramica Flaminia-Bossini Docce)
• Danilo Napolitano (Katusha)

Costa Etrusca - Livorno

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Images by Davide Tricarico/www.Womenscycling.net

• A group of eight formed on the first climb: Pooley, Armstrong, Bruins, Hausler (Cervelò) Vos (Dutch National Team), Ljungskog (Flexpoint), Brandli (Bigla), Villumsen (Columbia-Highroad).
• Emma Pooley (Cervelò) looks around the group.
• Emma Pooley (Cervélo) after her second fall in the descent
• Susanne Ljungskog (Flexpoint) at the feeding station.
• There were many accidents today. Elise Depoorter (Lotto Belisol) has some running repairs.
• Kirsten Wild (Cervélo) gets back on baord after an accident.
• Kirsten Wild (Cervélo) forces the pace on the first hill, and the group exploded.
• The first fall for Emma Pooley (Cervélo).
• Team Dila at the presentation with Edita Pucinskaite and Marta Villajosana.
• Team Gauss-RDZ-Colnago with the Russian champ Julia Martisova and Eva Lechner
• Nicole Cooke finds her inner homegirl before the start.
• Ex pro rider Silvia Parietti is now organiser of this race with Italian national champ Fabiana Luperini.
• The race was hard due a very strong wind.
• The group passes the famous little bridge in Bibbona
• Tuscan vineyards are coming out of hibernation.
• Emma Pooley (Cervelò) watches Vos, Ljungskog, Brandli and her teammate Armstrong.
• Emma Pooley (Cervelò) raises her arms to celebrate the win.
• Nicole Brandli (Bigla) tries to flee the group 4km from the finish.
• But the winner is Cervelò's Emma Pooley.
• Kristin Armstrong (Cervelò) beat Marianne Vos and Susanne Ljungskog for second place.
• The podium (l-r): Armstrong Pooley and Vos.

Cape Epic

Stage 8 - March 28: Oak Valley - Lourensford, 60km

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Images by Sportzpics / www.sportzpics.net

• Riders negotiate a creek bed during the final stage.
• Burry Stander and Christoph Sauser made an early morning break during the final stage.
• Burry Stander and Christoph Sauser make their way down the Portage point of the Old wagon trail.
• Stage winners Shan Wilson and Andrew Mclean during the final stage seven.
• The DCM Chrome team of Brandon Stewart and Max Knox enter Lourensford during the final stage.
• Mannie Heymans (Garmin) leads Kevin Evans and David George (MTN Energade) across the old Viljoens Pass.
• Mathias and Lukas Fluckiger (Trek World Racing) win the Absa Cape Epic Mountain Bike Stage Race's final stage.
• Sign of unity: Stefan Sahm and Karl Platt (Bulls) took the lead from multiple stage winners Christoph Sauser and Burry Stander (Songo.info) after the latter were penalised.
• Overall winner Stefan Sahm (Bulls) celebrates after winning his second Cape Epic.
• Ladies overall and stage winners Hanlie Booyens and Sharon Laws embrace one another after the final stage.
• Overall podium (L-R): Bart Brentjens/Chris Jongewaard (Trek Brentjens), Karl Platt/Stefan Sahm (Bulls) and Emil Lindgren/Andreas Kugler (Felt Factory 2).

Stage 7 - March 27: Oak Valley - Oak Valley, 86km

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Images by Sportzpics / www.sportzpics.net

• Christoph Sauser (Songo.info) is interviewed at the start of stage six.
• A bird's eye view of riders during stage six.
• Roan Exelby and David Lehman ride through some fire trails in Oak Valley.
• Mixed winner Nico Pfitzenmaier leads teammate Alison Sydor in Oak Valley.
• Marcel Bartholet, second place of mixed category, rides through the single track at High Rising.
• Riders make their way through the burnt section of the Wolwekloof Valley.
• Mannie Haymans, Marc Bassingwaite, Johnny kritzinger, David George, Kevin Evans and Tinker Juarez during stage six.
• Jurgen Kaindl and Ingmar Brichinfrid from Austria during stage six of the Absa Cape Epic Mountain Bike Stage Race in Oak Valley.
• Yolande Speedy leads a pack through a burnt section of the sixth stage.
• Bart Brentjens and Chris Jongewaard (Trek-Brentjens) win stage six of the Absa Cape Epic Mountain Bike Stage Race.
• Stefan Sahm and Karl Platt (Bulls) are the overall leaders after stage six.
• Tinker Juarez and his son at the stage's finish.
• David George examines a sore arm after a heavy fall during the stage.

Stage 6 - March 26: Greyton - Oak Valley, 111km

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Images by Sportzpics / www.sportzpics.net

• Emil Lindgren wheelies to the start of stage five.
• Riders silhouetted against the African sky during stage five.
• Niels Boon (Vredestein Racing) and Ian van der Walt (Team DCM Monavie) climb during stage five.
• Riders stired the South African dust once more on stage five.
• The leaders set a hot pace during stage five to Oak Valley.
• Andrew Maclean (Cyclelab Toyota) rides through the dust during stage five.
• An aerial view of Absa Cape Epic riders during stage five.
• Absa Cape Epic riders make their way through the Koegel berg.
• Race? What race? Riders take the chance to cool off during stage five of the Absa Cape Epic Mountain Bike Stage Race.
• Riders make their way across the railway lines during stage five.
• America's DJ Brooks crossing under the R43 during stage five.
• Ladies leaders Hanlie Booyens and Sharon Laws during stage five.
• Burry Stander and Christoph Sauser (Songo.info) win stage five of the Absa Cape Epic Mountain Bike Stage Race.
• Karl Platt shows the strain after stage five of the Absa Cape Epic Mountain Bike Stage Race. Platt has struggled with a shoulder dislocation on two stages of this year's event.

Stage 5 - March 25: Greyton - Greyton , 114km

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Images by Sportzpics / www.sportzpics.net

• Stefan Sahm of Bulls during his winning ride.
• The look onto the profile was sometimes discouraging during the stage.
• Max Knox, Burry Stander, Christoph Sauser and Brandon Stewart discuss Stander's broken wheel.
• Stander broke his wheel and had to wait for replacement.
• Burry Stander chases back to Christoph Sauser
• Stage winner Karl Platt leads a group
• Burry Stander waits for his bike
• Stefan Sahm and Karl Platt celebrate as they cross the finish line first.
• Kevin Evans and David George cross the line
• Karl Platt of Bulls is marked after the effort that brought him the win with teammate Sahm.
• Christoph Sauser after the race
• Christoph Sauser after a tough day in the saddle
• The winners and new overall leaders
• Sahm (l) and Platt on the podium

Stage 4 - March 24: Villiersdorp - Greyton, 73km

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Images by Sportzpics / www.sportzpics.net

• Riders descend down towards the Riviersonderend valley during stage three.
• The field await the start of stage three of the Absa Cape Epic Mountain Bike Stage Race.
• Tim Boehme (Bulls 2) leads Thomas Zahnd and Urs Huber (Stoeckli-Craft) while teammate Thomas Dietsch follows.
• Mathias and Lukas Fluckiger led most of stage three but couldn't stay away to the finish in Greyton.
• There were some scenic views during stage three not that any of the riders had time to notice.
• Marcel Bartholet and Esther Suss during stage three
• Crazy or what? Tandom riders Koos and Madeleine Pieterse do some descending during stage three.
• Riders make their way through the dust during stage three.
• Christoph Sauser of Songo.info leads the chase group early on stage three.
• More than just spare tubes were needed during stage three of the Absa Cape Epic Mountain Bike Stage Race.
• Stage winners and overall leaders Burry Stander and Christoph Sauser of Songo.info.

Stage 3 - March 23: Villiersdorp - Villiersdorp, 110km

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Images by Sportzpics / www.sportzpics.net

• Kids enjoyed watching the riders come through their town during stage two of the Absa Cape Epic Mountain Bike Stage Race.
• Tim Boehne (Bulls 2) limps back home after destroying his front wheel.
• The leading bunch makes their way through the dusty dry roads of Villiersdorp.
• Second placed master Shan Wilson makes his way through the vineyards.
• Overall leaders and stage winners Burry Stander and Christoph Sauser chase during stage two.
• Brandon Stewart and Max Knox (DCM Chrome) lead a train of riders.
• Mixed Category leaders and stage winner Alison Sydor makes a splash during stage two.
• Race leader Burry Stander leads the pack early during stage two.
• A rider checks that all of his ducklings are following close behind.
• Doctors and fellow riders Brian Lewer and Andrew Kennedy-Smith help fix Caren Henschdel's dislocated shoulder.
• American Mattew Weatherley White races the last five kilometres along the irrigation canals.
• Burry Stander and Christoph Sauser win stage two, making it three from three at the Absa Cape Epic Mountain Bike Stage Race.
• Bed time: The bike park during following stage two.

Stage 2 - March 22: Gordon's Bay - Villiersdorp, 112km

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Images by Sportzpics / www.sportzpics.net

• Riders await the start of stage one in South Africa.
• Dust covers the sky as Cape Epic makes its was from Gordon's Bay to Villiersdorp.
• Hundreds of riders spread out as the Absa Cape Epic Mountain Bike Stage Race starts.
• A rider and local kids both having fun during stage one.
• Mountainbike legend Tinker Juarez during stage one.
• Urs Huber (Team Stockli) was spent after the stage to Villiersdorp.
• Chris Jongewaard and Bart Brentjens (Trek) lead stage winners Christoph Sauser and Burry Stander (Songo.info).
• Women's stage winners and leaders Sharon Laws and Hannlie Booyens.
• The comradery during stage one of the Absa Cape Epic Mountain Bike Stage Race.
• Elsabe Hofmeyer massages her husband, Jan Hendrik Hofmeyer after his leg cramped.
• There were some good reasons to be first across the line on stage one.
• Christoph Sauser and Burry Stander (songo.info) claimed victory again.

Stage 1 - March 21: Capetown - Capetown, 19km

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Images by Sportzpics / www.sportzpics.net

• The scene at the start
• An epic view
• Rolling down the sandy switchbacks
• Part of the area had previously burnt
• Burry Stander and World Champion Christoph Sauser pedal through the meadow.
• Multivan Merida Hannes Genze and Jochen Kaess of Germany during the Prologue.
• Former winners Karl Platt and Stefan Sahm of Bulls
• Masters Winners Shane Wilson and Andrew MacLean of Team CycleLab Toyota
• Stander and Sauser pushed hard
• African leaders Kevin Evans and David George finished second for the day.
• A scenic day for all
• The perfect draft is demonstrated by Alison Sydor, who hangs onto partner Nico Pfitzenmaier in the mixed event.
• There were a few crashes, too but none were severe.
• Hanalie Booyens and Sharon Laws win the Ladies prologue
• Alison Sydor and Nico Pfitzermaier win the mixed team prologue
• Burry Stander at the start
• Christoph Sauser (l) and Burry Stander four seconds before take-off
• Karl Platt and Stefan Sahm at the start of the Absa Cape Epic Prologue.
• Stander was Sauser's biggest challenger and finished a few seconds ahead of his teammate.
• Hannes Genze and Jochen Kaess finished third
• Sauser and Stander won the prologue
• The winning teams in the men's event.
• Kevin Evan and David George wear the African Leaders Jersey after the prologue.
• Adriana Boccia and Luciana Cox chose a unique outfit.
• Nico Pfitzenmaier had to do some quick repairs during the stage

Oceania MTB Champs

Race 3 - March 22: Downhill

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Images by Evan Jeffery / www.evanjeffery.blogspot.com

• Amy Laird boosting over one of the many jumps in practice
• Josh Button slotted himself into third in the race for the Oceania Title
• Will Rischbeith after recovering from an injury posted a top ten
• Nathan Rennie in his welcome return to racing finished fourth in a class field
• Shaun O'Connor used different lines to his advantage in taking the Under 19 win.
• Rhys Willemese was unable to match the speed of O'Connor on the day
• Tamryn Murrell found the slippery conditions not to his liking
• Sarsha Huntington having a last hit out before heading over seas to race
• National Champion, Claire Whiteman. rode into first in the slippery conditions
• Darcy Murrell had another good ride in testing conditions
• Cody Eichhorn made the most of conditions to post a top ten finish
• Ben Cory was consistent on the Thredbo course
• Kiwi, Wyn Masters missed the win by just over two seconds
• Jared Graves on his way to another win in Thredbo

Race 2 - March 21: Cross country

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Images by Evan Jeffery / www.evanjeffery.blogspot.com

• Trenton Day with James Peacock ready to pounce on the third lap
• Adrian Retief getting some valuable race training in Australia
• Michael Codner punching out of a short pinch on the Thredbo track
• Jodie Willet used the race as a warm up for a hill climb the next day near home
• The best placed Kiwi, Jeanette Gerrie finished seventh in a class field
• Another Kiwi, Cathy Hamer making it into the top ten finishers
• Jenni King rode a strong race into third
• Dylan Cooper had to make the best of a start from the back of the pack
• Nick Both looking composed on the Merritt's trail
• Another Kiwi rider finding the conditions demanding on the west island
• Daniel McConnell was the form rider on the day in Thredbo
• Lachlan Norris looks like having a good season on the international circuit
• Rhys Willemese the best of the Aussie riders in U 19 downhill seeding
• Kiwi Under 19, Richard Leacock smashed the downhill seeding
• Caroline Buchanan's skills in downhilling have improved giving her top seeding
• Ben Cory put down a good run placing him third on the seeding day
• Jared Graves looks like the one to beat on Sunday's downhill race
• Nathan Rennie makes a welcome return to racing after surgery
• Plenty of smiles after the women's four cross
• James Peacock rode well securing an Oceania title in the U19 division
• The front row of the women's field was tense before the start
• The Thredbo ducks were not fazed by the action
• Tory Thomas looked comfortable on the early stages of the race
• Zoe King and Rowena Fry locked in battle again
• Torq riders Katherine O'Shea and Tory Thomas on the rocky climbs single trail
• Zoe King leading out Rowena Fry as they head to the top of the track
• U23 rider, Therese Rhodes with Jo Wall on one of the many climbs
• Zoe King found the Thredbo course to her liking finishing second
• Cal Britton with Ben Henderson in tow on one of the steep climbs
• Lachlan Norris punched past early leader Mike Northcott
• Ben Henderson put in another fine effort finishing fourth in a strong field
• Andrew Blair found the course at Thredbo tough by scraping into the top ten
• Lachlan Norris pulled another win in the U23 class
• Mike Northcott rode well in the opening laps of the men's race
• Daniel McConnell on his way to receiving the men's Oceania Title
• Torq rider, Daniel McConnell watches over as other riders come across the line
• Lachlan Norris and Dylan Cooper after a hard day in the saddle

Race 1 - March 20: 4X

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Images by Evan Jeffery / www.evanjeffery.blogspot.com

• Jared Graves heads for the win in the four cross at the Oceania Championships

Classic Loire Atlantique

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Images by Fabrice Lambert

• Guillaume Pont and Julien Foisnet formed a small break early in the race.
• Jimmy Casper and Jimmy Engoulvent were very alert all race.
• Joeri Adams (Rabobank) made it to the finish in 31st.
• The first escape of the day with Cédric Collaers and Tony Hurel
• The peloton rides amongst the vineyards.
• There was a solid crowd waiting for the riders at the finish.
• Paul Brousse in the day's main escape.
• Pierre Cazaux grabbed the climber's crown thanks to the time he spent in the break.
• The Rabobank continental boys patrol the peloton.
• Lilian Jégou was another rider who anandoned.
• Miyataka Shimizu in the break.
• Miyataka Shimizu rode aggresively all day.
• French national champion Nicolas Vogondy was a marked man.
• Paul Brousse and Sébastien Duret head the break.
• Rémi Cusin and Pierre Cazaux work hard out the front.
• Romain Lebreton chased the break at the start of the second lap.
• Samuel Plouhinec has words with Jérôme Cousin.
• Sébastien Duret and Cyril Bessy
• Sébastien Duret and David Le Lay. The latter took third.
• Tony Hurel, Romain Lebreton and Cédric Collaers work together in a small group.
• Cyril Bessy wins the Loire Atlantique Classic.
• Cyril Bessy Besson (Chaussures Sojasun) survived to win on a day where over 100 riders abandoned.
• The Loire Atlantique podium (l-r): Michael Reihs, Cyril Bessy and David Lelay.
• Cyril Bessy and Daniel Mangeas have a chat after the race.
• Cyril Bessy gets the rewards of a great win.
• Pierre Cazaux was awared best climber.
• The Loire Atlantique podium (l-r): Michael Reihs, Cyril Bessy and David Lelay.
• Meet the Feillus... Brice and Romain Feillu hang out with their sister, Lisa.

Nokere Koerse

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Images by AFP Photo

• Australian Graeme Brown won the sprint on the Nokereberg.

Istrian Spring Trophy

Stage 3 - March 15: Vrsar - Umag, 145km

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Images by MM Bicikel

• A break group of six riders heads off the front of the peloton.
• The breakaway riders start to pull away from the bunch.
• The breakaway riders pulled out a margin of several minutes as the stage progressed.
• Rabobank's riders kept a close eye on the action within the peloton.
• Rabobank launched a two rider attack on the flat, straight sprint to the line.
• Belgian Michael Van Staeyen (Rabobank Continental Team) claims victory over Norway's Alexander Kristoff (Joker Bianchi).
• The Radenska-Kd Financial Point riders roll back to the team car having protected Mitja Mahoric's overall lead to the end.
• Rabobank's Michael Van Staeyen and Dennis Van Winden get their flowers on the podium.
• Stage podium (L-R): Alexander Kristoff (Joker Bianchi), Michael Van Staeyen (Rabobank Continental Team), and Dennis Van Winden (Rabobank Continental Team.
• Overall podium (L-R): Michael Kreder (Rabobank Continental Team), Mitja Mahoric (Radenska-Kd Financial Point), and Radoslav Rogina (Loborika).
• Overall podium (L-R): Michael Kreder (Rabobank Continental Team), Mitja Mahoric (Radenska-Kd Financial Point), and Radoslav Rogina (Loborika).
• Håvard Nybø (Sparebanken Vest Ridley) claimed the sprinter's jersey.
• Final jersey winners Gašper Švab (Sava), Mitja Mahoric (Radenska-Kd Financial Point), and Håvard Nybø (Sparebanken Vest Ridley).
• One little girl went home very happy having scored a Rabobank feed bag.

Stage 2 - March 14: Vrsar - Motovun, 146km

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Images by Ivo Rilovic

• Mitja Mahoric (Radenska-Kd Financial Point) leads the race after two stages.

South African National MTB Championships

Race 2 - March 15: Downhill

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Images by MTN National Cup Series

• Johann Potgieter lived up to his pre-race No. 1 ranking by taking a narrow overall victory.
• Jonty Neethling's second run was quicker than his first, but just not rapid enough to claim the gold medal.
• New national champions for 2009 (from left): Johann Potgieter (Elite men), Anka Martin (Elite women) and Pierre van der Merwe (Junior men).

Race 1 - March 14: Cross country

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Images by Carl Scholtz / MIHPhotography

• Specialized rider Burry Stander pulled away from the field during the elite men cross country race.
• Burry Stander (Specialized) was the strongest in the elite men's race.
• Burry Stander wins the South African National Championships cross country.
• A very happy Burry Stander.

Images by MTN National Cup Series

• Burry Stander was in a class of his own in winning his seventh consecutive national title.
• Erik Kleinhans became the South Africa's elite men's champion.
• Under 23 bronze medalist Philip Buys finished a respectable fourth overall.
• Yolande Speedy was a model of consistency on her way to the South African elite women's title.
• Former multiple Olympian Erica Green made a strong return to racing, finishing second overall in the elite women's race.
• Heletjie van Staden grabs third place overall.
• Yolande Speedy was elated at her victory.

Maremma Cup round two cross country

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Images by Scott-Swisspower MTB-Racing

• Florian Vogel on his way to a win for his Scott-Swisspower MTB-Racing team.
• Nino Schurter races to a second place after problems with his chain on the first lap.
• Florian Vogel and Nino Schurter went one-two for Swizterland.
• Elite men's podium

Superprestigio Massi round two - Banyoles

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Images by Sergio Suarez

• Dario Gasco (Massi) overcame a chain problem to finish third in the Under 23s.
• Anna Villar (Massi) rides to fourth.
• Jean Christop Peraud (Massi)
• Israel Nuñez (Massi)
• Francesc Xa Carnicer (Massi) rides to win the Masters 30+ race.
• Margarita Fullana (Massi) racing to a win.

Images by Team Orbea

• Julien Absalon (Orbea) shows good form after a winter off from racing.

Images by Lejarreta (Team Orbea)

• Iñaki Lejarreta (Orbea) ahead of Carlos Coloma (MSC Bikes) and Ruben Ruzafa (Orbea)
• Iñaki Lejarreta (Orbea)
• The start of the elite men's race
• Elite men's podium.

Tour de Taiwan

Stage 7 - March 14: Taipei City, 60km

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Images by Iva Silic

• The Heraklion Nessebar Kastro team on the podium before stage start for team presentation
• Alex Coutts smiles just before the start
• The Heraklion-Nessebar Kastro riders and an Hong Kong Team rider
• Christoph Springer (H.N.K.) just riding in the bunch
• German Christoph Springer finished 18th in the final stage
• Springer (H.N.K.) takes the curve
• Christoph Springer and Alex Coutts (H.N.K) in the middle of the race
• Christoph Springer and Alex Coutts from the Greece team, Heraklion Nessebar Kastro
• Giorgios Bouglas (H.N.K) riding through the bunch

Images by Evis Chu/Photosport International

• Overall winner Jezowski Krzysztof (Merida Europe Team) drinks champagne in the trophy.
• Jesse Anthony (Team Type 1) wins the king of mountains title
• Tomasz Kiendys (Merida Europe Team) wins stage7
• Tomasz Kiendys (Merida Europe Team) wins stage7
• 'One, two, three... cheese!' Kam Po Wong and Ho Ting Kwok (Hong Kong Team) grab a momento before the stage.
• Kam Po Wong and Ho Ting Kwok (Hong Kong Team) with the final product.
• Peter McDonald (Drapac Porsche) was dejected after losing his yellow jersey on the final stage.
• The stage start in front of the Taipei goverment building.
• The yellow jersey, Peter McDonald (Drapac Porsche).
• Riders pass building 101.

Stage 6 - March 13: Taipei County, 142.6km

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Images by Greg Chang/Photosport International

• Elementary school students were glad to have a photo with Peter McDonald, the yellow jersey holder.
• Wong Kam Po (Hong Kong Team) celebrated his birthday the day of the 6th stage.
• Peter McDonald (Drapac Porsche Cycling Team) fights for his yellow jersey.
• It's time for feeding.
• Jezowski Krzysztof (Merida Europe Team) wins the 6th stage.
• The riders climb up nearly 1000m during the 6th stage.
• Kazakhstan National Team attacks the peloton.
• Jesse Anthony (Team Type 1) assumes an aerodynamic position.
• Drapac Porsche Cycling protects their yellow jersey.
• Feng Chun Kai (Exustar Cycling Team) is the best local climber.

Stage 5 - March 12: Hsinchu City, 148.3km

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Images by Greg Chang/Photosport International

• Best local rider Lai Kuan Hua (Giant Asia Racing Team) enjoy a tea break.
• Peter McDonald (Drapac Porsche)
• Park Seon Ho (Seoul Cycling Team) sprints like the rocket.
• It's a tough stage for a Heraklion-Nessebar-Kastro rider.
• The average speed was about 42.5km/h
• Peter McDonald (Drapac Porsche)
• Park Seon Ho (Soul Cycling Team) wins stage five of the Tour de Taiwan.
• Park Seon Ho(Seoul Cycling Team) takes stage five of the Tour de Taiwan.
• Park Seon Ho(Seoul Cycling Team) has worn the green jersey for five consecutive days.
• The stage was held on Taiwan coastline.

Stage 4 - March 11: Changhua County, 138.8km

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Images by Evis Chu/Photosport International

• Kazakhstan National Team's Roman Zhiyentayev in the peloton.
• The best local rider Lai Kuan Hua (Giant Asia Racing Team) leads the peloton.
• The feather weight rider Suzuki Shinri (Shimano Racing Team) won the mountain stage.
• Roman Zhiyentayev (Kazakhstan National Team) couldn't defend his yellow jersey.
• The employees of Taiwan's Merida bike corporation enjoy the race.
• The tattoo of Overcome on sprinter Park Seon Ho (Seoul Cycling Team).
• Peter McDonald (Drapac Porsche Cycling) took the yellow jersey last year he also won the Changhua stage.
• Suzuki Shinri (Shimano Racing Team)
• High speed descending over 90km/h
• Stage four is Lai Guan Hua (Giant Asia Racing Team)'s regular training course.

Stage 3 - March 10: Taichung City, 88km

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Images by Evis Chu/Photosport International

• A university cheerleading team puts on a show.
• Taichung mascot Sunny Cake Hero with Kam Po Wong.
• Kazakhstan National Team controls the peloton.
• Merida Europe Team assists Krzysztof Jezowski to take a stage win.
• Students were passionate about high-speed cycling.
• The elementary school students love cycling.
• Bikes, scooters and cars all crowded on a prosperous road.
• Roman Zhiyentayev (Kazakhstan National Team) successfully kept the yellow jersey.
• Photographers were amazed about high-speed cornering.
• Roman Zhiyentayev (Kazakhstan National Team) keeps the yellow jersey.
• Jezowski Krzysztos wins stage three which finished in Taichung. He also won the stage finishing in Taichung last year.
• One lap to go.
• The breakaway group of Kam Po Wong.

Images by Iva Silic

• The  Kazakhstan National Team with the general classification leader, Roman Zhiyentayev.
• The Heraklion - Nessebar - Kastro Team on the presentation podium before the 3rd stage.
• Ivailo Gabrovski (Heraklion - Nessebar - Kastro) setting the pace in the first part of the race.
• Giorgios Bouglas (Heraklion - Nessebar - Kastro) and Wei Cheng Lee (Exustar Cycling Team) taking the curve.
• A breakaway attempt with Yoshiaki Shimada (Team Bridgestone Anchor) and Giorgios Bouglas (Heraklion - Nessebar - Kastro).
• Ivailo Gabrovski (Heraklion - Nessebar - Kastro) riding in front with Jesse Anthony (Team Type 1) and Shinpei Fukuda (Team Bridgestone Anchor)
• Ivailo Gabrovski (Heraklion - Nessebar - Kastro) speeding up with the bunch to catch the breakaway.
• Bogdan Lukasz (Merida Europe Team) and Alex Coutts (Heraklion - Nessebar - Kastro) riding in the bunch.
• Dmitrty Gruzdev (Kazakhstan National Team) , Christoph Springer (Heraklion - Nessebar - Kastro) and Hsin Hua Huang (Team Senter-Merida Taiwan).
• A small breakawy group with Ki Hong Yoo (Seoul Cycling Team), Alex Coutts (Heraklion Nessebar Kastro), Kam Po Wong (Hong Kong Team) and Taiji Nishitani (Aisan Racing Team) was caught just before the final lap.

Stage 2 - March 9: Chiayi County, 136.35km

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Images by Evis Chu/Photosport International

• The peloton stayed together for much of the race.
• Riders fly past a famous Taiwanese temple.
• Korean race leader Seon Ho Park (Seoul Cycling Team) lost his yellow jersey by day's end.
• There were many attacks throughout the stage, but few managed to stay away.
• The peloton nears the finish line as the sprinters get ready for the bunch sprint.
• Roman Zhiyentayev (Kazakhstan National Team) wins the two-up sprint over Peter Mcdonald (Drapac Porsche Cycling Team).
• Roman Zhiyentayev (Kazakhstan National Team) on the podium with the white and green jersey holders.

Stage 1 - March 8: Kaohsiung City, 88km

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Images by Evis Chu/Photosport International

• The smaller fans were happy when the race came to town.
• The lead group is led by a local Asian rider.
• One of the fans wanted to feel a part of the action, so got vocale during the race.
• One of the local riders was an instant hit with the local teenage girls.
• There are 112 riders to challenge for the Tour of Taiwan.
• Passionte humans from Kaohsiung City.
• Park Seon Ho (Seoul Cycling) wn stage 1 in a fast crit.
• Park Seon Ho (Seoul Cycling) also took over the GC lead and will start stage 2 in yellow.
• Kaohsiung City offers nice views

Images by Iva Silic

• Giorgios Bouglas and Christoph Springer before the start of the first stage.
• The Heraklion-Nessebar Team presentation
• Ivailo Gabrovski (Heraklion-Nessebar-Kastro) got a small gap in the first part of the stage.
• Yoshiaki Shimada (Team Brigdestone Anchor) with Giorgios Bouglas (Heraklio-Nessebar) at full speed.
• Ivailo Gabrovski gets to the front again
• Ivailo Gabrovski leads the peloton

Giro del Friuli

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Images by Sirotti/www.sirotti.it

• Alessandro Ballan (Lampre - N.G.C) gets rid of his lid after the finish.
• The Giro del Friuli podium (l-r): Grega Bole, Mirco Lorenzetto and Manuel Belletti.
• Yes, Mirco, three wins. Lorenzetto lets us all know how many wins he's had this season.
• Mirco Lorenzetto (Lampre - N.G.C) wins the Giro del Friuli.

Images by Riccardo/ciclismoweb.net

• Alessandro Ballan (Lampre - N.G.C.) was all smiles at the start line.
• Ivan Basso (Liquigas) looked pleased to be racing.
• The Italian teams controlled the action at the front of the peloton.
• Two riders break away from the peloton during the race.
• Oleksandr Kvachuk (ISD) leads Maxim Gourov (CarmioOro - A-Style) in the two-strong breakaway.
• The leading duo were caught by a larger group around 25 kilometres from the finish.
• Mirco Lorenzetto (Lampre - N.G.C.) continued his successful start to the 2009 season.
• Italy's Mirco Lorenzetto (Lampre - N.G.C.) was just too quick.
• Mirco Lorenzetto (Lampre - N.G.C.) celebrates as he takes victory.
• Podium (L-R): Grega Bole (Amica Chips - Knauf), Mirco Lorenzetto (Lampre - N.G.C.) and Manuel Belletti (Serramenti PVC Diquigiovanni-Androni Giocattoli).
• Grega Bole (Amica Chips - Knauf), Mirco Lorenzetto (Lampre - N.G.C.) and Manuel Belletti (Serramenti PVC Diquigiovanni-Androni Giocattoli) celebrate on the podium.

Memorial Samyn

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Images by Jean-Francois Quenet

• Française Des Jeux's Wesley Sulzberger gets to meet his Aussie mates from Cinelli-Down Under.
• Defending champion Philippe Gilbert (Silence-Lotto) on the start line.
• Podium (L-R): Rémi Cusin (Agritubel), Wouter Weylandt (Quick Step) and Björn Leukemans (Vacansoleil Pro Cycling Team).
• Wouter Weylandt (Quick Step) took his first victory of his season at Le Samyn.
• French revelation Rémi Cusin (Agritubel) finished second at Le Samyn.

Images by Isabelle Duchesne/www.photoscycling.com

• Lloyd Mondory (AG2R La Mondiale) signs on.
• Former winner Jimmy Casper (Besson Chaussures - Sojasun) was looking forward to the race.
• Team Milram's Ronny Scholz at the start line.
• Kevyn Ista looked happy prior to the race.
• Philippe Gilbert (Silence-Lotto) was hopeful of defending his title.
• The Palmans Cras riders finish their sign on.
• Frank Vandenbrouck (Cinelli-Down Under) talks to a local television crew.
• 2006 race winner Renaud Dion makes some last minute adjustments.
• Some riders react to an early attack from a rider.
• The peloton strings out as the pace increases.
• Jimmy Casper (Besson Chaussures - Sojasun) rode solo between the break and peloton for an hour and finished in 10th place.
• The nine man lead group pulled out several minutes over the peloton.
• Rémi Cusin (Agritubel) put in a solid ride to finish second.
• Podium (L-R): Rémi Cusin (Agritubel), Wouter Weylandt (Quick Step) and Björn Leukemans (Vacansoleil Pro Cycling Team).
• Podium (L-R): Rémi Cusin (Agritubel), Wouter Weylandt (Quick Step) and Björn Leukemans (Vacansoleil Pro Cycling Team).

Vuelta Mexico Telmex

Stage 8 - March 8: Circuito DF, 114km

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Images by AFP Photo/Mexsport

• There was a touch of Le Tour in the final stage.
• Colby Pearce (US National Team) sits near the front of the break.
• The peloton rolls through the Distrito Federal during the last day.
• Andrew Pinfold wins the final stage of the Vuelta a Mexico.
• A happy Andrew Pinfold celebrates his final stage win in Mexico.
• Pinfold salutes from the podium after taking the final stage.
• Jackson Rodriguez enjoys the kisses of victory.
• Venezuela's Jackson Rodriguez won the 2009 Vuelta a Mexico.
• Jackson's Serramenti PVC Diquigiovanni teammates patrol the front on the final stage.
• The rbeak tries to get away during the final stage.
• One of the OUCH crew looks after the front of the peloton.
• It could be Paris with that sort of backdrop.
• The peloton was on parade during the final stage in Mexico.

Stage 7 - March 7: Huichapan - Pachuca, Hidalgo, 158km

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Images by AFP Photo/Mexsport

• Mexican rider Florencio Ramos (Tecos De La Uga) rides in the lead group.
• Shawn Milne (Team Type 1) gets a snack while riding in the lead group.
• Floyd Landis (Ouch Presented by Maxxis) and Tyler Hamilton (Rock Racing) enjoy a chat in the lead group.
• American rider Shawn Milne (Team Type 1) riders in the lead group.
• The leaders gained over five minutes on stage seven.
• Tyler Hamilton (Rock Racing) was one of three riders from the United States of American in the breakaway.
• American rider Shawn Milne (Team Type 1) riders in the lead group.
• The lead group gained an extensive lead on stage seven.
• Luis Fernando Macias (Mexican National Team) enjoys a snack during the stage.
• Floyd Landis (Ouch Presented by Maxxis) wasn't able to stay with the leaders.
• Florencio Ramos (Tecos De La Uga) claims a solo victory, 50 seconds ahead of the small group the sprinted for second.
• Florencio Ramos (Tecos De La Uga) celebrates his stage victory on the podium.
• Podium (L-R): Shawn Milne (Team Type 1), Florencio Ramos (Tecos De La Uga) and Luis Fernando Macias (Mexican National Team).
• Luis Fernando Macias (Mexican National Team) was happy with his third place.
• Jackson Rodriguez (Serramenti Pvc Diquigiovanni - Androni Giocattoli) looks set to claim the overall victory.
• Jackson Rodriguez (Serramenti Pvc Diquigiovanni - Androni Giocattoli) enjoys another day in paradise.
• Celebrations begin after the stage. Sprints leader Karl Menzies (Ouch Presented By Maxxis), race leader Jackson Rodriguez (Serramenti Pvc Diquigiovanni - Androni Giocattoli) and mountains leader David Vitoria (Rock Racing).

Stage 6 - March 6: San Miguel Allende - León, Guanajuato, 177km

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Images by AFP Photo/Mexsport

• Making a statement: Tyler Hamilton (Rock Racing) poses in his "Rocks not dead" team kit.
• Floyd Landis (Ouch Presented By Maxxis) waits for the stage to start.
• Cameron Evans (Ouch Presented By Maxxis) rolls along in a bunch during the stage.
• Andrew Pinfold (Ouch Presented By Maxxis) rides alone during today's stage.
• Cameron Evans (Ouch Presented By Maxxis) out-sprints Juan Pabl Magallanes (Mexican National Team) for the stage win.
• Canadian Cameron Evans (Ouch Presented By Maxxis) claims a much sought-after stage win for his squad.
• Podium (L-R): Juan Pabl Magallanes (Mexican National Team), Cameron Evans (Ouch Presented By Maxxis) and Christopher Baldwin (Rock Racing).
• Cameron Evans (Ouch Presented By Maxxis) celebrates his stage win.
• Juan Pabl Magallanes (Mexican National Team) was happy with second place.
• America's Christopher Baldwin (Rock Racing) made the final podium spot.
• Jackson Rodriguez (Serramenti Pvc Diquigiovanni - Androni Giocattoli) enjoys another day in the leader's jersey.

Stage 5 - March 5: Cuernavaca - Toluca, 215km

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Images by AFP Photo/Mexsport

• Mexico? Italy? Who knows where you will find Michael Rasmussen these days. Today he was talking to Floyd Landis prior to the start.
• The peloton zooms on past some local flowers.
• Jackson Rodriguez (Serramenti PVC Diquigiovanni - Androni Giocattoli) wasn't the only one enjoying the podium kisses.
• Back-to-back victories for David Vitoria (Rock Racing)
• Swiss rider David Vitoria (Rock Racing) enjoys another stage victory.
• Podium (L-R): Jackson Rodriguez (Serramenti PVC Diquigiovanni - Androni Giocattoli), David Vitoria (Rock Racing) and Carlos Lopez (Canel's Turbo).
• Carlos Lopez (Canel's Turbo) took third place on today's stage.

Stage 4 - March 4: Tlaxcala - Cuernavaca, 200km

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Images by AFP Photo/Mexsport

• Gilberto Simoni (Serramenti Pvc Diquigiovanni - Androni Giocattoli) gets ready for his first day in the leader's jersey.
• The peloton rolls along during the fourth stage in Mexico.
• Gilberto Simoni (Serramenti Pvc Diquigiovanni - Androni Giocattoli) rides in the peloton wearing the race leader's jersey.
• Mexican Ricardo Tapia (Region 4 Oaxaca) works in a dress-up shop in his spare time...we assume.
• David Vitoria (Rock Racing) takes a stage victory for his American squad.
• David Vitoria (Rock Racing) enjoys the spoils of his success.
• Podium (L-R): Arquimedes Lam (Tecos De La Uga), David Vitoria (Rock Racing) and Andrew Pinfold (Ouch Presented By Maxxis)
• Gilberto Simoni (Serramenti Pvc Diquigiovanni - Androni Giocattoli) retained the leader's jersey for another day.

Stage 3 - March 3: Puebla - Tlaxcala, 157km

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Images by AFP Photo/Mexsport

• Gilberto Simoni (Serramenti Pvc Diquigiovanni - Androni Giocattoli) celebrates on his victory on the podium.
• Italy's Gilberto Simoni (Serramenti Pvc Diquigiovanni - Androni Giocattoli) makes it two stage wins from the stages for his squad.
• Serramenti Pvc Diquigiovanni - Androni Giocattoli's Gilberto Simoni takes a solo stage win,
• Mexico's Carlos Lopez (Canel'S Turbo) took second place on third stage.
• Ignacio Sarabia (Mexican National Team) rounded out the stage podium on stage three.

Images by Wenceslao Rodriguez

• Taylor Phinney (Trek Livestrong) rolls to the start
• The first attack of the day
• Darren Hill attacked strongly
• Enrique Gutierrez (Rock Racing) grits his teeth.
• Tyler Hamilton (Rock racing) on the way up
• Sergio Hernandez (Rock Racing) chimed in in the Rock Racing attacks.
• Hernandez pulls the lead group.
• Landis going towards the top
• Francisco Matamoros (Tecos De La Uga) is lightly built so he can climb better.
• Karl Menzies (Ouch Presented By Maxxis) works in the group
• Gilberto Simoni (Serramenti) wins the stage
• Landis in the press conference after the race.

Stage 2 - March 2: De Huajuapan de León - Puebla, 205km

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Images by AFP Photo/Mexsport

• The breakaway rolls in stage two.
• Jackson Rodriguez (Serramenti PVC Diquigiovanni) is the winner of stage two.
• The stage two podium: Andrew Pinfold (OUCH), Jackson Rodriguez (Serramenti) and Joaquin Sobrino (Burgos Monumental)
• Andrew Pinfold (OUCH Pro Cycling p/b Maxxis) steps onto the stage podium.
• Joaquin Sobrino (Burgos Monumental) took third on the day.

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