31 January 2011

Australian Nathan Earle (Genesys Wealth) was denied his fourth stage win by SUBWAY® Pro Cycling’s Westley Gough who won the final stage of the International Trust House Cycle Classic yesterday in Wellington.

Gough was in the stage winning break in the tour’s final stage, a criterium raced in Wellington inner city streets, with Earle (Genesys Wealth), Lachlan Norris (Drapac) and Patrick Lane (Jayco AIS).

“My goal was to stay near the front and go with any moves that looked dangerous,” Gough said.

Click for big version

“Once I got in the winning break we worked well together and just kept the pressure on and with four laps to go I was trying to decide whether to go solo or take the gamble of a sprint finish.”

Gough took the gamble of waiting for the sprint, and coming into the final corner came past the three riders to win the stage in one hour, three minutes and 16 seconds.

“I wondered whether I would have the sprint legs and actually quite surprised myself to get over them for the win – I’m really pleased, and after a disappointing start (to the tour) it’s a great way for the team to finish.”

SUBWAY® Pro Cycling’s Manager Graeme Miller said the team was dominant and stuck well to the days plan.

“It was hard and fast right from the start and the boys were on the front looking for opportunities and Wes was just in amazing form today,” Miller said.

“Once Wes was in the front group we had Paul (Odlin) and Pete (Latham) policing things in the chase group. We totally dominated on a day that really suited our strengths and showed what we could do.”

The Tour was won by Nelson’s George Bennet (Cardno) who leaves New Zealand shortly to race overseas for Lance Armstrong’s Trek Livestrong Under 23 team.

ENDS

© Scoop Media