Cycling World Championships - Geelong - Elite Men's race

An early start to the day, since the clocks ticked over to summer time last night - but it was worth it. The weather really played along.

Thor Hushovd, the eventual winner of the Rainbow Jersey

The teams took their turns in signing on for the race at Federation Square in central Melbourne. The largest contingents appeared to be from Spain, Italy, US, Netherlands and of course Australia. Opinions about who would end the day in the rainbow jersey varied. Many hoped Cadel would keep the jersey for another year, but Philippe Gilbert appeared to be the favourite of those in the know, but there were many other names in the mix.

Soon all the formalities were over and the teams were racing. First stretch comprised of a flat run to Geelong, (80km). We glimpsed the peloton against a beautiful backdrop of yellow fields from the train on our way to Geelong; then it was 11 heart breaking 16km circuits - 260km is a long way! The peloton eventually got the early break group under control - but paid a heavy price, the Italians, and even the Australians lost some important cavalry as a result.

Last two laps were really exciting. Cadel made some promising breaks; Gilbert almost had it with 3km to go, but eventually the leaders were yet again caught and it was a bunch sprint to the finish. Hushovd, God of Thunder, bided his time - was mid-field for much of the race - and came out smiling on the podium.

More of my pcitures can be found here.