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Cycling photography for November 2008

Super Prestige Cyclo-cross Gieten
Australian National MTB Series Round #2
Tour d'Indonesia
Cyclo-Cross World Cup #4
Kansai Cyclo-cross
Copa Chile - Circuito Lo Barnechea
GP van Hasselt
Track World Cup Round 2
Zesdaagse Vlaanderen Gent
Superprestige Cyclo-cross Gavere
Revolution 21
Tour of Hainan
Ruta Conquistadores
Jaarmarktcross Niel
Cyclo-Cross World Cup #3
Rocky Hill Roundup
Toronto International Cyclocross
Houtlandcross Eernegem
Sei Giorni di Milano
Australian National MTB Series Round #1
Superprestige Veghel-Eerde
Amstel Curaçao Race
Koppenbergcross
Track World Cup #1, Manchester

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.

6-Tage Rennen Dortmund

Day 6 - November 4:

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Images by AFP Photo

• Erik Zabel was a watched man but still managed to sneak in enough points with his partner Leif Lampater to win the event.
• Erik Zabel and Leif Lampater celebrate after winning the Dortmund Six Day.
• Erik Zabel hoists the trophy that he and Leif Lampater won in Dortmund.
• Zabel and Lampater take a victory lap after winning the Dortmund Six Day.
• Soon to be retired, Erik Zabel savors the victory in Dortmund.
• Erik Zabel goes solo.

Firenze - Pistoia

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Images by Sirotti/www.sirotti.it

• Alessandro Ballan gets introduced at the race
• Ballan and Pampanini share a laugh
• Ballan with artist Silvana Pampanini
• Ballan with Loreto Petrucci and Silvana Pampanini
• Grivko ready to go.
• Pinotti was confident before the start
• A last drink and then Grivko is ready to go.
• Ballan checks out Pinotti's nice bike
• Ballan fuels up before heading out
• Ballan can be happy with his season, having won the Worlds.
• Grivko also posed with Pampanini
• Ballan and Pinotti during their pre-race chat
• Ballan is ready to call it quits for 2008.
• Grivko in his Ukrainian champion outfit before the take-off.
• Grivko close to the finish line
• Grivko covered the 30km in a little more than 36 minutes.
• Grivko takes the last turn before winning the race.
• Dario Cioni (Silence-Lotto) gets home in third.
• Pre-race favourite Marco Pinotti (Team Columbia) had to be contend with second place.
• Pinotti is a multi national champion champion of Italy.
• The podium and the spectators celebrating their heroes.
• Andriy Grivko (Team Milram) wins the race
• Grivko gets the flowers
• Grivko is the victor
• The podium with winner Grivko (centre) as well as Marco Pinotti (Team Columbia, l, second) and Dario Cioni (Silence-Lotto).
• The podium

Tour d'Indonesia

Stage 11 - December 4: Candi Dasa - Denpasar, 135km

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Images by Frederick Chan

• The stage 11 podium
• Iran's Ghader Mizbani on the podium as leader going into the final day
• A few hundred bucks ain't bad for a day's work and a spot on the podium

Stage 10 - December 3: Gilimanuk - Candi Dasa, 163km

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Images by Frederick Chan

• Japan's Masakazu Ito giving autograph to a cycling fan.
• The presentation of the Japan National Team, team winner in stage 9.
• Sprint leader Anuar Manan of Malaysia National Team uses the internet.
• The Tineli Collosi team taking in the sun on the deck of the ferry to Bali Island.
• Tour leader Ghader Mizbai Iranagh (Tabriz Petrochemical Team) with the local police chief.

Stage 8 - December 1: Surabaya Criterium, 80km

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Images by Frederick Chan

• The jersey holders after the end of stage eight.

Stage 7 - November 30: Madiun - Surabaya, 164km

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Images by Frederick Chan

• Tour d'Indonesia race leader Ghader Mizbai Iranagh (Tabriz Petrochemical Team) gets ready to start stage seven.
• The jersey holders line up for the start of Tour d'Indonesia's stage seven.

Kansai Cyclo-cross

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Images by Kei Tsuji

• Most riders run on the beach carrying their bikes.
• Yes, that's Sandy Hell!
• Some riders dive into the lake.
• Barry Wicks (KONA) and Keiichi Tsujiura (Bridgestone-Anchor) before the start.
• Riders fight for a good position.
• Barry Wicks (KONA) got a good position
• Keiichi Tsujiura (Bridgestone-Anchor) leads in opening laps
• Masanori Kosaka (Suwako Racing Team) chases Tsujiura
• Barry Wicks (KONA) and Adam McGrath (Van Dessel) clear the barriers.
• Keiichi Tsujiura (Bridgestone-Anchor) leads.
• An expert Masanori Kosaka (Suwako Racing Team) chases Tsujiura
• Barry Wicks (KONA) struggles on the sand.
• Yu Takenouchi (TREK) in the beach section.
• Masahiko Mifune (Matrix-Powertag).
• Kazuya Nakayama (Suwako Racing Team).
• Katsunori Irie (Shimano Drinking).
• Darren Reid (GW Ridley-Japan).
• Yudai Izawa (Bee Club R.T).
• Kazuya Okazaki (MeitanHompo-GDR).
• Daisuke Yano(Rapha-Independent Fabrication)
• Keiichi Tsujiura (Bridgestone-Anchor) sets a furious pace
• Yu Takenouchi (TREK).
• Adam McGrath (Van Dessel).
• Barry Wicks (KONA) catches Keiichi Tsujiura (Bridgestone-Anchor).
• Barry Wicks (KONA) and Keiichi Tsujiura (Bridgestone-Anchor) ride side by side for a while.
• Keiichi Tsujiura (Bridgestone-Anchor) leaves the rest behind.
• Adam McGrath (Van Dessel) picks up his pace.
• Adam McGrath (Van Dessel) in the beach section.
• Keiichi Tsujiura (Bridgestone-Anchor) never slows down.
• Lake Biwa and tall Barry Wicks (KONA).
• Barry Wicks (KONA) chases the national champion
• Masanori Kosaka (Suwako Racing Team) keeps his pace and his 3rd position.
• Adam McGrath (Van Dessel) and Sandy Hell.
• Keiichi Tsujiura (Bridgestone-Anchor) on the final lap.
• Barry Wicks (KONA) pushes his bike.
• Keiichi Tsujiura (Bridgestone-Anchor) soloes to the victory
• Barry Wicks (KONA) finishes 2nd.
• On the podium, Barry Wicks (KONA) comments on Keiichi Tsujiura (Bridgestone-Anchor)'s great ride.
• The podium, champion on the top.
• Current national champion Ayako Toyooka (Toyookaayako) dominates women race.

Copa Chile - Circuito Lo Barnechea

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Images by Copa Chile

• The Cannondale Team was all set up at the final round to support its racers.
• The elite men line-up for the start of the cross country race.
• A rider helps another get ready for the day's racing.
• The intermediate women get their turn racing.
• The race course
• The start area
• A spectator awaits the racers.
• Daniela Bunzli (Cannondale) poses with another racer before the start.
• It's camera time.
• Elite men's cross country podium
• Elite women's cross country podium.
• Junior men's downhill podium.
• Elite women's downhill podium.

GP van Hasselt

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Images by Cyclingnews.com

• Sven Nys (Landbouwkrediet) in the lead early on.
• Sven Nys and Kevin Pauwels
• Bart Wellens (Fidea) was resistant to the cold and snow in Hasselt.
• Bart Wellens (Fidea) was ecstatic after taking his first win of the season.
• Bart Wellens (Fidea) celebrates after winning his first race this season.
• Former world champ Bart Wellens (Fidea) wins in Hasselt.
• Covered in mud and jubilant, Bart Welles (Fidea) salute the crowd.
• Kevin Pauwels, Bart Wellens (both Fidea) and Rob Peeters (Landbouwkrediet) celebrate on the podium in Hasselt.
• Three happy riders on the podium: Kevin Pauwels, Bart Wellens (Fidea) and Rob Peeters (Landbouwkrediet)
• Rob Peeters struggles with the muddy conditions, but at least he struggled to the podium.
• Erwin Vervecken (Fidea Cycling Team) goes on with the racing.
• The mud eventually got everyone a little dirty.
• Kevin Pauwels (Fidea Cycling Team) came in for third.
• Sven Nys struggled today and finished fifth.
• The snow man checks out Jan Verstraeten during the race.
• Wellens in the sand.
• Nys runs through the sand pit.
• Nys kept his lead in the GvA overall.

Zesdaagse Vlaanderen Gent

Day 6 - November 23:

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Images by Cyclingnews.com

• The exciting Derny final with Risi (r) pitted against Zabel.
• Zabel with Joop Zijlaard as pacemaker took the win.
• Keisse finished strong but had to be contend with second place.
• Michael Vaarten led Keisse to second place in the grand derny final.
• Kenny De Ketele finished just outside the podium with Luc van Uytfange.
• An American donated two miniature bells
• Eric Zabel during his lap of honour in his last Gent Six Days.
• Keisse wins the final time trial and kept a clean record throughout the six days.
• The overall winners Stijn Steels(r) and Tosh van der Sande.
• Van der Sande happy to have won the Gent Six Days.
• The winners of the green jersey from the Czech Republic were Jan Dostal (l) and Jiri Bares.
• Third place overall went to Belgians Gert Jan van Immerseel and Maarten Vlasselaer.
• Austin Carroll (l) and Guy East finished second and had a satisfying trip to Europe.
• The Belgian yellow jerseys took the lead on the second night and never surrendered it.
• Van der Sande and Steels will have a bit of time to celebrate, but need to prepare for exams at the university of Gent in January.
• An American guest donated some miniature bells to the event's organisers
• Iljo Keisse leads Leif Lampater on the final night in Gent
• A delighted Iljo Keisse celebrates his overall win on home turf
• A salute for the appreciative home crowd from Iljo Keisse, overall winner of the Gent Six
• Iljo Keisse and Robert Bartko speak to the crowd after their win
• Experienced campaigner Robert Bartko salutes the fans in Gent
• The final podium in Gent (l-r): Leif Lampater, Erik Zabel, Iljo Keisse, Robert Bartko, Kenny De Ketele and Andreas Beikirch
• Overall winners Iljo Keisse and Robert Bartko with the American guest who donated those impressive bells

Images by Bjorn Haake/Cyclingnews.com

• Jackie Simes found a last minute partner to enjoy racing in the Six Days in Gent.
• Simes is racing for the Time team on the road.
• Peter Williams of Great Britain partnered with Jackie Simes in Gent.
• Organiser Rob Discart (l) and race director Patrick Sercu drew a positive summary of the Gent Six Days.
• People stood up for the winning duo of Iljo Keisse and Robert Bartko.
• The infield was packed with people while the racers ended the Six Days soft-pedaling around the track.
• Track racing makes you thirsty and Keisse is no exception. After the win, he deserved the drink.
• Open Sesame – the Gent track is quite versatile.

Day 5 - November 22:

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Images by Cyclingnews.com

• Iljo Keisse celebrates his time trial win with a thumbs up.
• The spectators went nuts as he beat the nine-second mark.
• Keisse unwraps after his effort
• Keisse checks out which section of the stadium was the loudest.
• It's getting close to the finish in the elimination race.
• Risi checks out Keisse behind him/
• `De Ketele follows Aeschbach closely.
• De Ketele is a young and coming local Belgian prospect.
• Danny Stam is followed by the Swiss duo.
• Andreas Müller hands over to Tim Mertens.
• Danny Stam is launched by Peter Schep.
• Erik Zabel is off after a handsling by Leif Lampater.
• Belgians Nicky Cocquyt (l) and Ingmar Depoortere during the Madison.
• Keisse powers over the short track in Gent.
• Schep is shadowed by Aeschbach.
• Three Germans in a row as Zabel gets company from Beikirch and Bartko.
• Bartko hands over to Keisse.
• Lampater launches Zabel
• Beikirch gives all his strength to shoot De Ketele off the front.
• De Ketele got good speed thanks to his partner's arm.
• Zabel and De Ketele go anaerobic.
• Back to you, Andreas.
• Tim Mertens gets launched.
• Keisse is done for a bit and sends off Bartko.

Images by Bjorn Haake/Cyclingnews.com

• Guy East (l) and Austin Carroll had a great Six Day trip in Europe.
• East and Carroll would like to defend second spot.
• The pair lives far away from each other so training together is often not an option.
• Race director Patrick Sercu congratulates Tosh van der Sande and Stijn Steels to another day in yellow.
• Steels (l) and Van der Sande are the leaders of the UIV Cup.
• The Belgians have been racing outstanding throughout the Gent Six Days.
• The Czech pair of Jan Dostal (l) and Jiri Bares received the green jersey from the city of Gent.
• The Czechs also got congratulated by Sercu.
• Bares with the flowers.
• Former Olympic Champion Robert Bartko enjoys the Gent Six Days.
• Leon van Bon switched back to racing in Europe after spending most of the year in Asia.
• Experienced Andreas Beikirch was matched up with young talent Kenny de Ketele.
• Luke Roberts had to watch from the sidelines as his partner was out of the Six Days due to a knee injury from yesterday's crash.
• Everybody has their cups marked so there would be no cross eating.

Day 4 - November 21:

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Images by Cyclingnews

• Lampater is followed by an Italian
• Marc Hester crashed but was able to continue.
• Dimitri de Fauw had a good evening and some good races.
• Kenny de Ketele has many friends and fans as he lives nearby.
• Steven de Neef grits his teeth.
• Local hero Iljo Keisse waits for his next turn to gear it up.
• Andreas Beikirch fully concentrated during the racing.
• De Fauw shadowed by Keisse.
• Alexander Aeschbach waits for Bruno Risi to launch him once again.
• De Neef tries to get some air in his lungs during the short break until he has to go again.
• Leif Lampater in his attempt to gain a lap on the others.
• Pim Ligthart is following Robert Bartko.
• Luke Roberts (r) propels his partner Marc Hester to a speedy lap.
• Tim Mertens in action.
• Bartko is off as Keisse (r) gets to relax a bit.
• The Dutch duo of Danny Stam (r) and Peter Schep perform a handling exchange.
• Bartko and Keisse try to get the sweat off for the ceremony after winning the 500m time trial.
• Zabel battles with Aeschbach
• Zabel (l) and Lampater in their lap of honour after winning the second Madison.
• Jakob Riedle in the U23 event
• Carroll is followed by Luke Rowe.
• The Swiss duo Damien Corthésy and Pierre Kaeslin rode hard.
• Simon Verhamme was one of the crash victims on a wild night.
• The action was fierce
• Attempts to break away were closely watched by the others.
• Tosh van der Sande (r) launches his partner Stijn Steels.
• Van der Sande pedalled hard throughout the night.
• This exchange from Steels (r) to Van der Sande worked, but earlier he had crashed.
• Magic potions or dinner?
• Derny driver Joop Zijlaard is an expert, and riders hope to draw him as their leader.
• Derny driver Michel Vaarten and Joop Zijlaard get ready for the racing.
• Bruno Risi catches up with Etienne de Wilde.
• Kenny de Ketele in action.
• Kenny de Ketele heads into the fray.
• Leif Lampater gets a throw from Erik Zabel
• Dmitri de Fauw and Robert Bartko
• Erik Zabel relaxes in his box during a break.
• Bruno Risi enjoys a massage during a break in the racing.
• The derny race action
• Erik Zabel heads into the action with a throw from Leif Lampater.
• Bruno Risi in action.
• Andreas Beikirch gets a hand from Kenny de Ketele.
• Bruno Risi and Alexander Aeschbach.
• Dmitri de Fauw heads in for more chasing.
• Luke Roberts and Mark Hester.
• Erik Zabel goes for the points.
• Steven de Neef and Dmitri De Fauw.
• Kenny de Ketele gives Beikirch a sling.
• Andreas Beikirch goes on the attack.
• Casper Jorgensen and Jens-Erik Madsen
• Luke Roberts and Mark Hester in the heat of the action.
• The Danish pair
• Iljo Keisse throws Robert Bartko in.
• Bartko powers around the short track.
• Robert Bartko brought his team back into the lead.
• Casper Jorgensen and Jens-Erik Madsen
• Peter Schep in action.

Images by Bjorn Haake / Cyclingnews

• The bike of Jackie Simes in shambles after his partner Peter Williams slid in to him during a change.
• The fork after the crash didn't look good but at least Simes was OK.
• Stijn Steels gets treated by the Dutch medical service after the race on night four.

Day 3 - November 20:

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Images by Cyclingnews

• Austin Carroll and Guy East got the green jersey for points leaders since the actual leaders wear the yellow of the overall race leader.
• The British duo Fenn and Rowe in the Madison.
• Tosh Van der Sande gets thrown in by Stijn Steels
• Stijn Steels goes on the attack in the Madison.
• Guy East pushing hard on night three.
• Austin Carroll patrols the front of the race after the Belgian duo lapped the field.
• Austin Carroll and Guy East were on the defensive on night three.
• Tosh Van der Sand used his world champion's power to help his team lap the field.
• Stijn Steels suffered his way to lapping the field in the Madison.
• Stijn Steels enjoys his time on the podium with six day great Patrick Sercu.
• Tosh Van der Sand and Stijn Steels padded their overall lead on night three.
• Stijn Steels, nephew of sprinter Tom Steels is happy with his win on the third night in Gent.
• Austin Carroll (USA) will head back home after the race in Gent.
• Austin Carroll enjoys his time on the podium
• Guy East at the podium ceremony
• The Six-Day food i snot necessarily approved by Paul Bocuse, but it keeps the racers going.
• Joop Zijlaard gets ready for another Derny round.
• Michael Vaarten smiles confidently before the Derny race.
• Bruno Risi talks with former Six-Day specialist Etienne De Wilde (r).
• Kenny de Ketele had a good night three.
• Andreas Beikirch (r) launched partner De Ketele.
• Erik Zabel gives a hand-sling to Leif Lamparter.
• Dimitri de Fauw and Luke Roberts pedal along.
• Erik Zabel takes a break.
• Bruno Risi gets a massage in-between races.
• The derny races are spectacular to watch.
• Leif Lamparter hands the duty off to Erik Zabel.
• Bruno Risi has won a countless number of Six-Day races.
• Beikirch is launched by his partner De Ketele (r).
• Risi pushes off partner Alexander Aeschbach.
• De Fauw (l) is launched by partner Steven de Neef.
• Marc Hester in the foreground sends Roberts off on a wild lap.
• Zabel is fully focused on the task.
• De Fauw sends De Neef on a few laps of anaerobic workout.
• De Ketele does the same to Beikirch.
• Beikirch is chased hard by one of the Italians.
• The Danish duo demonstrates the handover technique in perfection.
• The changing from Hester to Roberts while Keisse sits right behind them.
• Jørgensen and Madsen on their attempt to gain a lap.
• Local hero Keisse (r) pushes on Bartko
• Robert Bartko in action as he gives it his all.
• Bartko is a real track specialist and has two Sydney Olympic gold medals to prove it.
• The Danes in full swing
• Dutchman Peter Schep powers through the Gent course.

Images by Bjorn Haake/Cyclingnews.com

• Stijn Steels celebrated with fellow students after he and Tosh
• College night means big crowds van de Sande won the third night's racing and increased their overall lead.
• The bikes await their riders who get a quick massage in one of the short breaks.
• The bike of Robert Bartko with the Sydney Olympics memory engraved. He won two gold medals in 2000.
• The derny racers wait for their glory.
• Leon van Bon gets a quick massage during a break.
• Can't have a bike race in Belgium without beer....
• ... and food - sausages and broodjes rock.
• Of course the fans can also choose to buy tons of bicycle memorabilia.

Day 2 - November 19:

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Images by Cyclingnews

• British pair Andrew Fenn and Luke Rowe exchange during the second night's madison.
• Jackie Simes (USA) goes full gas on the timed lap.
• Czech pair Jan Dostal and Jiri Bares get ready for the second night of racing.
• Austin Carroll (USA) in the leader's yellow jersey on night two.
• Austin Carroll focuses on the Belgian pair who threatened their lead.
• Tosh Van de Sande gets thrown in by Stijn Steels on the pair's way to taking the overall lead from Americans Guy East and Austin Carroll.
• Stijn Steels and Tosh Van De Sande from Belgium on their way to taking the overall lead.
• UIV racer Guy East (USA) throws in Austin Carroll in the madison on the second night.
• Belgians Thomas Sprengers and Simon Verhamme in the UIV cup race.
• Riders in the UIV cup keep a close watch on the action.
• One of the British riders on the second night of the UIV cup.
• Stijn Steels on his way to the lead in the UIV cup race.
• The riders storm past the bell sometimes used to ring in a sprint lap I(but mostly done by an electronic device).
• Casper Jørgensen powers along the Gent track.
• Andreas Beikirch full concentrated during an attempt to lap the field.
• Leon van Bon (r) and Pim Ligthart try to go up to speed before the time trial.
• Nicky Cocquyt and Ingmar Depoortere prepare the time trial effort.
• Robert Bartko (l) and Iljo Keisse continue to lead thanks in part to winning the 500m time trial.
• Bartko made the pace before launching Keisse and checking his teammate's effort out afterwards.
• Pim Ligthart uses pace maker Eric Schoefs during the Derny race.
• In the derny the riders get a good draft and the speeds are high.
• Zijlaard Joop (l) is a very good pacemaker and delivered Bruno Risi to victory.
• Ligthart tries to stay close
• Casper Jørgensen and derny rider Huybrecht built a team.
• After riding behind a derny for a while it is possible to get a tad dizzy.
• Risi and Mertens battle it out behind their pacemakers.
• In the finale it can get tight as everyone wants to get into prime position.
• Risi and Joop won the second derny race
• Local hero Iljo Keisse managed to lap the field in his derny race.
• Keisse won the derny with a pacemaker that was NOT Joop.

Images by Bjorn Haake/Cyclingnews.com

• Beikirch (red shorts) and De Ketele lead the warmup lap.
• Each pair took the front as they got introduced to the public.
• Local favourite Iljo Keisse in the points race.
• Every time Keisse took off from the field, the crowd went nuts.
• Marc Hester in the steep turn.
• Casper Jörgensen (r) switches over to teammate Jens-Erik Madsen.

Day 1 - November 18:

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Images by Cyclingnews

• Americans Guy East and Austin Carroll lead the U23 Gent leg of the UIV Talents Cup event after the first day of racing
• Belgians Stijn Steels and Tosh Van De Sande pictured with the points jerseys won during the first day of racing in the U23 UIV Talents Cup at Gent
• Danes Jens-Erik Madsen and Casper Jörgensen signing in
• Andreas Beikirch and Kenny De Ketele signing in during the first day
• Dutchmen Leon Van Bon and Pim Ligthart signing in while Patrick Sercu observes over their shoulders
• Andreas Muller (Ger) and Tim Mertens (Bel) add their names to the sign-in board
• Italians Fabio Masotti and Angelo Ciccone signing in prior to the first day of racing at Gent
• Marc Hester (Den) signs in under the watchful eye of Patrick Sercu
• Germans Erik Zabel and Leif Lampater are one of the teams favored to win at Gent
• Bruno Risi (Sui) is a three-time winner at Gent
• Kim Gevaert (in all black) joined Bruno Risi at the sign-in. Risi's partner Alexander Aeschbach is on the left. Gevaert won silver t the Beijing Olympics in the 4x100m relay.
• Defending champions Robert Bartko (l) and Iljo Keisse (r) signing in on the first day of competition
• Riders on the start line
• The starting pistols are loud!
• Erik Zabel (Ger)
• Belgians Dimitri De Fauw and Steven Deneef are quite relaxed prior to the start of racing
• Peter Schep (Ned) signs in
• Iljo Keisse (r) and Dimitri De Fauw (c) at the start of the first day at Gent

Images by Bjorn Haake/Cyclingnews.com

• Austin Carroll won the U23 race, together with his partner Guy East, but it was very close.
• The bell lap has Patrick Sercu's name engraved. Sercu functions as the race director.
• Casper Jögensen is delighted to be able to start the Gent Six Days soon.
• Leon van Bon is taking a timeout from his Asian adventures to race near his home country Netherlands.
• Australian Luke Roberts was also happy to race on the short 160m track in Gent.
• Erik Zabel checks out the spectators who gave the German lots of applause for his final Gent appearance.
• Zabel shadows Keisse closely in the early parts of the race.
• Bruno Risi in turn didn't leave Zabel out of sight. Risi is always good for the win, as he recently proved in Munich.
• Zabel checks out how Lampater is doing towards the end of the team elimination
• Lampater leads Keisse in the team elimination. Keisse opened the attack, but Lampater struck back.
• Lampater exhausted after his sprint against Keisse.
• Track racing is a fast sport
• Keisse/Bartko won the one-lap time trial.
• The Derny races are loud but spectacular to watch.
• Pacemaker Zijlaard Joop was the winner of all three derny races of the evening. He provided good draft.
• Australian Luke Roberts tries to stay on the wheel of his derny-man.
• Robert Bartko rounds the velodrome behind his pacemaker.
• Bartko always gets extra cheers from the crowd, as he partners with local hero Iljo Keisse.

Superprestige Cyclo-cross Gavere

Race 4 - November 16: Elite men

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Images by Cyclingnews.com

• Klaas Vantornout rides through the thick stuff while Lars Boom chooses to run.
• Lars Boom (Rabobank) took the lead early in the race, but wound up on the defensive fairly quickly.
• Klaas Vantornout (Sunweb Projob) only enjoyed his lead for a short time before he stumbled and was passed by Nys.
• Sven Nys (Landbouwkrediet - Tönissteiner) pushes up the hill with Bart Wellens right behind.
• Sven Nys (Landbouwkrediet - Tönissteiner) manages mud of Gavere with Bart Wellens (Fidea Cycling Team).
• Belgium's Sven Nys (Landbouwkrediet - Tönissteiner) keeps control with Bart Wellens (Fidea Cycling Team) in tow.
• Klaas Vantornout (Sunweb Projob) was in the lead for much of the race, but had too many crashes in the final laps.
• Erwin Vervecken (Fidea) had a good race and came in fourth.
• Lars Boom (Rabobank) chasing with Kevin Pauwels (Fidea).
• Lars Boom digs in on the muddy climb.
• Sven Vanthourenhout (Sunweb) rode well until a crash and injured wrist took him out of the race.
• Erwin Vervecken (Fidea) showed flashes of the brilliance which won him three world championships in his career.
• Sven Nys on his way to his fifth consecutive win in Gavere.
• World Champion Lars Boom (Rabobank) had a tough time in the muck of Gavere.
• Jan Verstraeten (Sunweb Projob) tries to get back up to speed.
• Davy Commeyne (Revor)
• Bart Wellens (Fidea) took the lead on the final lap, but bobbled in the much and Nys got past.
• Bart Wellens sees Nys on his wheel and is trying to decide how to get rid of him.
• Sven Nys (Landbouwkrediet - Tönissteiner) wins the Gavere with space to spare.
• Belgian Champion Sven Nys (Landbouwkrediet - Tönissteiner) takes the Gavere, the third round of the Superprestige.
• Sven Nys (Landbouwkrediet - Tönissteiner) takes his fifth win in the Gavere.
• Belgian Bart Wellens (Fidea Cycling Team) rolls in for second.
• Sven Nys (Landbouwkrediet - Tönissteiner) tops the podium with Bart Wellens (Fidea Cycling Team) and Klaas Vantornout (Sunweb Projob Cycling Team), l & r.

Images by Bjorn Haake/Cyclingnews.com

• The podium with winner Sven Nys in the centre and runner-up Bart Wellens on the left. Klaas Vantornout was third.
• Bart Wellens in the post-race interview.
• Sven Nys explained his victory.
• Klaas Vantornout was a close contender today but Nys and Wellens proved to be too strong in the end.
• Vantornout is looking forward to the next Superprestige race.

Race 3 - November 16: Elite women

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Images by Photopress.be

• Katie Compton (Spike) takes the win in Gavere.

Images by Mark-Legg Compton

• Podium (L-R): Daphny Van Den Brand (RWC Ahoy), Katherine Compton (Spike Shooter) and Sanne Cant (Selle Italia).

Race 2 - November 16: U23 Men

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Images by Cyclingnews.com

• Philipp Walsleben (Palmans-Cras)
• Belgian U23 champion Tom Meeusen (Fidea)
• Kennet Van Compernolle (Sunweb Projob) stayed clear of a chasing group to take third.
• The espoirs race was led by two riders: Philipp Walsleben (Palmans) and Tom Meeusen (Fidea)
• Philipp Walsleben (Palmans-Cras) and Tom Meeusen (Fidea) battled it out for the win in Gavere.
• A premature salute cost Meeusen the win.
• Meeusen thought he had the win but Walsleben slipped past just before the line.
• The U23 podium: Tom Meeusen (Fidea), Philipp Walsleben (Palmans) and Kennet Van Compernolle (Sunweb)

Images by Bjorn Haake/Cyclingnews.com

• Walsleben never had a large gap over Tom Meeusen, both seen here on the climb in lap two.
• Mark Thwaites (Burley) enters the muddy section which was faster to run than to ride for most.
• In the muddy section most riders opted to run but for some that wasn't a voluntary decision.
• The podium from left to right with second placed Tom Meeusen, winner Philippe Walsleben and Kenneth Van Compernolle

Revolution 21

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Images by Nick Rosenthal/fatnick.com

• Stuart O'Grady sits first wheel on the Derny in the elite motor-paced scratch
• Revolution 21 was the final race for Bradley McGee
• Bunch action in the DHL Future Stars girls points race
• The sprint series winner passes Pete Mitchell in the first round
• Ross Edgar at speed in the sprints. Edgar took Silver in the Keirin at the Beijing Olympics
• Alex Greenfield won the women's 10km points race
• Riders fill the track in the DHL Future Stars boys one mile race
• Top sprinters Matt Crampton and Jamie Staff treat the crowd to a track stand
• Ross Edgar comes over the top of Olympic silver sprint medallist Jason Kenny in the sprint series
• Close call: The heat between Kenny and Edgar was so close the judges needed a few minutes before they could announce that Edgar had won
• Stuart O'Grady hits the front of the bunch during the 10 km scratch race
• Bradley McGee celebrates his win in the scratch race at Revolution 21
• The girl's race in the DHL Future Stars scratch race
• Flowers for the winner of the girls under 16 scratch race
• Ever-popular Rob Hayles appointed himself as team coach for the flying 750m team sprint event, determined to help his fellow team pursuiters to victory
• Team sprint for pursuiters: Steve Burke swings off to let Geraint Thomas and Ed Clancy come through
• Lead-out man Jamie Staff kicks hard to lead the sprinters to... well, to second place in the team sprint event!
• Ross Edgar and Jason Kenny grit their teeth in the Team Sprint
• Olympic silver medallist Jason Kenny at work
• Happy chappies: Geraint Thomas, Ed Clancy and Steve Burke smile as they celebrate their win in the Team Sprint
• Jason Kenny celebrates a race win
• Sporting gesture: Matt Crampton won the sprint series. Ross Edgar stops by to congratulate the man who beat him
• Revolution visitors - Guy East and Austin Carroll from the USA, seen here in the Madison kilometre event
• One of the American riders at speed in the Madison kilometre
• Dan McLay gives it all he's got in the Madison kilometer
• Madison change: Jonny Bellis slings Ben Swift into the kilometre
• Ben Swift grew up riding the track league at Manchester, and still knows his way round the track!
• Chris Newton finds focus at speed
• Madison men: Steve Burke gives a handsling to Ed Clancy
• CSC Saxo Bank riders Stuart O'Grady and Brad McGee wind it up for their Madison kilometer
• Brad McGee is a very classy track rider
• McGee throws Stuart O'Grady into the race
• Steven Burke and Ed Clancy, winners of the Madison kilometre at Revolution 21 in Manchester
• The bunch in the senior women's 8 km scratch race
• American visitor Kacey Manderfield was never from the action in the women's events
• Becki James picked up a couple of wins in the women's events - a superb return to racing after a spell off the bike
• Bradley McGee was given a warm send-off by his fellow riders
• Hugh Porter interviews Brad McGee
• In amongst them: The bunch in the U16 boy's events
• The Keirin start. Riders pick up the derny pacing bike in the Keirin
• The Keirin race saw several top Keirin specialists in action, including Jamie Staff, Ross Edgar and Matt Crampton
• The Keirin race kicks off in earnest, and Jamie Staff makes his intentions clear
• Matt Crampton won the Keirin event, proving too strong for Staff
• Flowers for Keirin winner Matthew Crampton
• Brad McGee is all smiles as he starts his very last bike race
• Teammates Stuart O'Grady and Jonny Bellis
• And they're off!
• Rob Hayles is normally the tallest rider in the race, so he was glad to find another rider tall enough to shelter behind
• David Millar in the bunch at Revolution
• Millar shows off his fancy socks
• The old one-two: Brad McGee gives Stuart O'Grady a lead-out in the points race
• Guy East puts his foot down in the points race
• Rob Hayles shows off his British national champion's jersey
• A Crocodile Dundee moment: Remember the bit where he goes 'That's not a knife!'. Aussie riders Brad McGee and Stuart O'Grady show the Brits what a real lead-out looks like!
• Chris Newton was always in the thick of the action in the points race
• Newton celebrates his win in the points race
• Geraint Thomas, winner of the first elite race of the evening at Revolution 21
• The McGee family marks Brad's retirement from racing at the Revolution 21 track meeting in Manchester

Tour of Hainan

Stage 8 - November 19: Wuzhishan - Sanya, 102.4 km

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Images by Song Guoqiang/Tour of Hainan

• The locals put on quite a show.
• The cheerleaders got everyone ready for the final stage.
• And even the racers welcomed the different warm-up.
• Ruslan Tleubayev asks for another drink
• The bunch grinds along on the highway
• The feed zone contained natural bars in China.
• The Russians led the way in the final stage.
• Poker face Boris Shpilevsky didn't let anything happen on the final stage that would have compromised his victory.
• The fierce sprint for the line on the final stage.
• Shpilevsky was a dominant force in the sprints throughout the race.
• The winning Russian team lines up for the memory lane shots.
• The fastest bikes in the sprints was often that of Boris Shpilevsky.
• The champagne of victory tastes the best.
• Shpilevsky took the overall title
• Taste it? What the heck? Off it goes!
• Instead, Shpilevsky tasted the trophy and found out it wasn't so bad either.
• The final podium winners with their checks.

Images by Charlie Issendorf

• Ukraine's Oleksandr Polyvoda rides solo.
• Workers watch stage eight of the Tour of Hainan pass.
• Everyone turned out to see the riders make their way through the final stage.
• The Tour of Hainan peloton.
• Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) takes his sixth stage win on the final day of the Tour of Hainan.
• China puts on a warm welcome for the international peloton.
• Bradley Huff (Jelly Belly) on the podium after finishing second in the final stage of the Tour of Hainan.
• Valentin Iglinskiy (Kazakhstani National Team) claims the polka dot jersey of the best climber in the Tour of Hainan.
• Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) on the podium as overall winner of the Tour of Hainan.

Stage 7 - November 18: Changjiang - Wuzhishan, 210.6 km

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Images by Evis Chu/PhotoSport International

• An overhead view of the peloton.
• The peloton negotiates a corner during stage seven
• Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) puts some distance on Peter John Herzig (Panasonic) in the final sprint.
• The field sprint for 11th place takes place 20 seconds behind Shpilevsky.
• A dancer on the podium
• Peter John Herzig, Boris Shpilevsky and Dave McCann (l-r) celebrate on the podium having taken the top three places for stage seven.
• Dmitriy Gruzdev (Kazakhstani National Team) leads the best Asian classification by 27 seconds going into the final stage.
• Valentin Iglinskiy (Kazakhstani National Team) wears the polka dot jersey of the best climber in the Tour of Hainan.
• Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) comfortably leads the Tour of Hainan with only one stage to go for overall victory.

Images by Guoqiang Song/Tour of Hainan

• Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) wins stage seven of the Tour of Hainan over Australian Peter John Herzig.
• Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) takes his fifth stage win of the 2008 Tour of Hainan.
• Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) charges to the line ahead of Australian Peter John Herzig, l.
• Workers pause to watch the Tour of Hainan pass.
• The riders stretched out in stage seven.
• An escape forms
• The peloton stretched out in the Tour of Hainan.
• Fans take photos of the riders passing by.
• A move of three in stage seven did not last long.
• Plenty of local support for the finish in Wuzhishan.
• Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) tops the day's podium with Peter John Herzig (Panasonic) and David McCann (Giant Asia Racing Team), l & r, for company.
• Dmitriy Gruzdev (Kazakhstani National Team) on the podium in the mountain's jersey.
• Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) enjoys the day

Images by Charlie Issendorf

• The team of race leader Boris Shpilevsky protected his lead all day.
• Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) took the stage win, his fifth of the race.
• Russia patrols the head of the bunch.
• The Panasonic team stayed relaxed.
• Siu Wai Ko (Hong Kong)
• Lovely scenery on Hainan island.
• The Jelly Belly boys missed out on the winning move.
• A Trek-Marco Polo rider rolls along in the peloton.
• One of the Hong Kong riders is deep in thought.
• Shpilevsky is tailed by Valentin Iglinskiy (Kazakhstan)
• It was all Russia, all the time on the front of the race.
• The Russian team was in control protecting the race lead.
• The race wound up the switchbacks in the hilliest stage of the race.
• Martin Lollesgaard (Denmark) feels the burn.
• Peter John Herzig (Panasonic) took second on the stage.
• Peter John Herzig, Boris Shpilevsky and Dave McCann on the stage podium.
• Valentin Iglinskiy (Kazakhstani National Team) is in the jersey of best climber.
• Another jersey for Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) this time the green jersey for best sprinter.
• Prepare to be doused!
• Green jersey holder Stefan Löffler (Giant Asia) poses with his teammates before the seventh stage.
• Yuri Metlushenko (Ukraine) takes on some water.

Stage 6 - November 17: Danzhou - Changjiang, 135.6 km

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Images by Guoqiang Song/Tour of Hainan

• Team Russia rides for Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) .
• Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) climbed well in the Tour of Hainan stage six.
• Charging into Changjiang, stage six of the Tour of Hainan.
• Dmitriy Gruzdev (Kazakhstani National Team) on the podium in the mountain's jersey.
• Champagne time for Dmitriy Gruzdev (Kazakhstani National Team)
• Local workers watch the peloton as it rolls through their village.
• Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) has enjoyed his fair share of champagne this week.
• A Kazakh rider pushed the pace high up one of the day's large climbs.
• It was a tough day of riding for the peloton, with the climbs testing out the old legs.
• The Denmark riders have been looking for a win all week, after being successful in July's Tour of Qinghai Lake, also in China.
• The Russians again controlled the action for race leader Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team).
• It was thirsty work on Stage 6.
• Race leader Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) rides at the front.
• Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) rests in the peloton during the sixth stage.
• The Russian National Team controlled the action for its race leader.
• Winding up: Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) has been tough to beat in the sprint finishes this week.
• Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) claims another sprint to the line.
• Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) also holds the green jersey after claiming a number of sprint stage wins.
• Another day, another yellow jersey for Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team).
• Podium (L-R): Valentin Iglinskiy (Kazakhstani National Team), Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) and Stefan Löffler (Giant Asia Racing Team).
• Podium (L-R): Valentin Iglinskiy (Kazakhstani National Team), Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) and Stefan Löffler (Giant Asia Racing Team).

Stage 5 - November 16: Chengmai - Danzhou, 171.2 km

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Images by Guoqiang Song/Tour of Hainan

• The field makes its way to Danzhou in the Tour of Hainan stage five.
• USA's Bradley Huff (Jelly Belly) wins Tour of Hainan stage five over Takashi Miyazawa (Meitan Hompo GDR), r.
• Bradley Huff (Jelly Belly) smiles after stage win number two in the Tour of Hainan.
• USA's Bradley Huff (Jelly Belly) pops open the bubbly after taking stage five victory of the Tour of Hainan.
• Dmitriy Gruzdev (Kazakhstani National Team) on the podium.

Images by Charlie Issendorf

• Andreas Schillinger signs in for stage five.
• Lukas Winter (Arbö KTM Junkers) in stage five of the Tour of Hainan.
• Ronald Yin Hon Yeung (Hongta Hong Kong) takes on water.
• Peter John Herzig (Panasonic) on the way to Danzhou.
• The peloton on long, flat roads.
• Team Russia lead the group.
• The long road to Danzhou.
• Tour of Hainan race leader Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) on the podium.
• Bradley Huff (Jelly Belly) wins stage five of the Tour of Hainan.
• Bradley Huff (Jelly Belly) tops the podium for Tour of Hainan's stage five.
• Bradley Huff (Jelly Belly) on top with Takashi Miyazawa (Meitan Hompo GDR) and Stefan Löffler (Giant Asia Racing Team), l & r.
• Valeriy Dmitriyev (Kazakhstani National Team) on the podium as the mountain's classification leader.

Stage 4 - November 15: Haikou - Chengmai, 163.5 km

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Images by Song Guoqiang

• The peloton rolls onto a bridge during Stage 4 of the Tour of Hainan.
• Riders were strung out as they came off the bridge during Stage 4.
• The peloton rolled through some local farm land on Stage 4.
• All of the locals downed tools to watch as the race passed during Stage 4.
• A Trek-Marco Polo rider shows the strain as he takes a turn on the front of the group.
• Riders enjoyed yet another glorious day on the Tour of Hainan's fourth day.
• Tour leader Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) winds up his sprint as the finish nears.
• Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) claimed another stage victory on Stage 4.
• Russia's Boris Shpilevsky showed why he's leading the general classification with another stage win.
• It was another day of success for Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) who continued to show his strong form.
• Drink up: Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) enjoyed the spoils of a hard day's work on the bike.

Stage 3 - November 14: Wenchang - Haikou, 150.7 km

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Images by Charlie Issendorf

• The Hongta Hong Kong team.
• The boys of the Panasonic team.
• The Jelly Belly team poses before the start of stage three.
• Brad Huff (Jelly Belly) takes the bunch sprint in Haikou.
• Boris Shpilevsky (Russia) still in the lead and the yellow jersey.
• The top three on the stage Takashi Miyazawa (Meitan Hompo GDR - 3rd), Boris Shpilevsky (Russia - 2nd) and Brad Huff (Jelly Belly - 1st).
• Chi Shek Chui (Hong Kong) on the roll-out.
• Jai Crawford (Marco Polo) on the attack in stage three.
• Riders chasing back on through the cars on stage three.

Images by Greg Chang/Photosport International

• The peloton heads over the 150.7 km Stage 3.
• Ireland's David McCann (Giant Asia Racing Team) in a group with another rider.
• Bradley Huff (Jelly Belly) takes on Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) in the final sprint.
• America's Bradley Huff (Jelly Belly) claims victory.
• A dragon was on hand to keep the fans entertained.
• Bradley Huff (Jelly Belly) sprays some champagne.
• Podium (L-R): Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team), Bradley Huff (Jelly Belly) and Takashi Miyazawa (Meitan Hompo GDR).
• Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) continues to hold the yellow jersey.

Stage 2 - November 13: Xinglong - Wenchang, 159.4 km

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Images by Charlie Issendorf

• Panasonic riders sign in
• The Russian team leads the peloton.
• Spectators found the perfect spot to watch the race on the freeway.
• But soon it was off into the country side and no more speeding for the bunch.
• The Hong Kong team pedals along
• The peloton called it a truce after exiting the freeway.
• The Chinese National team and Trek Marco Polo took the front positions.
• front from the race.
• Panasonic kept it quiet for the day
• Shaun Morris wheels his bike home.
• KinSan Wu of the Hong Kong team signs in
• Timothy Guy pedals smoothly in a a bunch that was relaxed.
• Australian Jai Crawford realises that the pace picked up.
• Boris Shpilevsky truly deserved the yellow jersey after he took out stage 2 wearing the leader's jersey.
• Andreas Schillinger crashed and was unable to add points to his green jersey. Instead, he suffered a bloody knee, a broken bike and hurt feelings.
• Bradley Huff (Jelly Belly) finished third.
• Some riders struggled in after the bunch sprint.
• Ahmad Haidar Anuawar of Malaysia gets some nutrients.
• The Russian team led the peloton most of the day.

Images by Greg Chang/PhotoSport International

• The peloton passes a high school
• A bird's eye view of the peloton
• The peloton takes an exit
• Boris Shpilevsky takes the field sprint
• The victory salute of Boris Shpilevsky
• The peloton rolls in
• Andreas Schillinger crashed in the field sprint and totes a broken bike across the finish line
• Dmitriy Gruzdev (Kazakhstani National Team) leads the Asian riders classification
• The stage's top three are (left to right) Stefan Löffler, Boris Shpilevsky, and Bradley Huff
• Boris Shpilevsky (Russian National Team) also leads the general classification and lets loose with bubbly

Stage 1 - November 12: Sanya - Xinglong, 163.6 km

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Images by Charlie Issendorf

• The Chinese team took the front of the race as it headed out of Sanya city.
• The Chinese team leads the peloton
• The yellow jersey, Dmitriy Grudzev at the start of stage one.
• The Polish team on the front in stage one.
• The Kazakh team in its familiar turquoise, was defending the yellow jersey of Dmitriy Grudzev.
• The peloton rounds a turn on stage one
• The Giant Asia team was on the attack.
• Lovely scenery on the first stage of Tour of Hainan
• The Chinese team is well represented.
• The Jelly Belly team was active at the front of the race on stage 1.
• Boris Schpilevsky (Russia) takes the victory.
• This rim shouldn't look like that.
• Andreas Schillinger (Sparkasse) on the podium for second place
• The stage one podium: Andreas Schillinger, Boris Schpilevsky and Stefan Loeffler.
• Boris Schpilevsky (Russia) takes the yellow jersey and the champagne toast.
• The peloton was single file on the fast stage to Xinglong.
• Prologue winner Dmitriy Gruzdev (Kazakhstan) could not defend his yellow jersey.
• Boris Schpilevsky (Russia) takes the stage win ahead of Andreas Schillinger (Sparkasse)
• The peloton was all together heading into the finale.
• Boris Schpilevsky (Russia) takes the sprint on stage one.

Prologue - November 11: Sanya City prologue, 3 km

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Images by Tour of Hainan

• A rider just leaving the start ramp at the Prologue.
• A rider from Chinese Taipei warming up on the trainer before the time trial.
• Coca Cola girls at the Tour of Hainan support the riders.
• Official guests watch the start of the first stage.
• Dragon dancer resting before the race's opening ceremonies.
• Team China's Ma Haijun checking out one of official's motorcycles.
• The view of Sanya Bay from Phoenix Island.
• Riders crossing the bridge from Sanya Bay Road to Phoenix Island for the Tour of Hainan's start.
• Professional riders cross the bridge from Sanya Bay Road to Phoenix Island.
• A spectator keeps the sun off her face as she watches the racing.
• A rider gets his count down ahead of the time trial.
• Fans came out to watch the opening day of racing.

Images by Charlie Issendorf

• Chris Jory of Team Panasonic is fully concentrated.
• Dale Scarfe (Panasonic) during the short prologue.
• Kwok Ho Ting of Hong Kong gets going.
• Bernard Van Ulden (Jelly Belly) rides through at full speed.
• Jelly Belly is the only American team at the start.
• Luke Cridland (Panasonic) made up his time trial bars since he wasn't allowed to actually use them.
• Team Tabriz Petrochemical hails from Iran
• A Malaysian rider heads off.
• Dmitriy Gruzdev (Kazakhstan) won the prologue.
• Gruzdev in the yellow jersey.

Ruta Conquistadores

Stage 4 - November 15: Turrialba to Bonita Beach, 125 km

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Images by Rob Jones/www.canadiancyclist.com

• The early morning sky over Aquiare
• It's organisation plus for this tough MTB event
• A rare sight at the start: the Arenal volcano smoking
• Alexander Sánchez
• Paolo Montoya and overall winner Ramírez
• Enrique Artavia
• Harlan Price
• Radoslav Sibl
• Thomas Turner
• Roberto Heras
• Brian Cooke
• Andrew Handford
• Mike Charuk credits his Master B win to [countryman] Tony Routley's training program
• Santos Corea was the Master A category leader
• Riders travel through the coffee fields of Turrialba
• The famous 'Tico Tinker'
• Sandra Walter won the final stage
• Struggling up the first climb
• Ramírez, Montoya and Sánchez were the leaders all day
• Paolo Montoya
• Sanchez paces team leader Ramirez
• Paolo Montoya
• Dietsch leads the chase
• A crew of three works on Roberto Heras' flat
• Dietsch led the chasers on the climbs
• Roberto Heras
• The chase group struggles up the last climb of the race
• Thomas Turner
• Cory Wallace works his way back to the chase group after his first flat
• The leaders head down the final descent
• Dietsch crossing a trestle bridge
• Heras crossing a trestle bridge
• One enterpreneur was ferrying people across on his railbike... for a fee
• Trudging across the longest trestle bridge
• A long line of riders cross
• High water this year after many days of rain
• Montoya takes the win in a sprint
• Roberto Heras finishes his first La Ruta in seventh place overall
• Happy finishers: Tuner and Price
• The final general classification (l-r): Dietsch, Montoya, Ramirez and Artavia
• Ramirez enjoying his fifth win in La Ruta

Images by La Ruta

• Riders covering dodgy bridges.
• Plenty of local support
• Overall leader Federico Ramirez (BCR-Pizza Hut)
• Federico Ramirez (BCR-Pizza Hut) poses on the race's last day.
• Paolo Montoya Cantillo (Economy Rent A Car) takes the day at Playa Bonita.
• Fred Dreier (Velo News Magazine) hits it hard.
• Paolo Montoya and Federico Ramirez
• Paolo Montoya and Federico Ramirez collaborate.
• The final overall podium
• Roberto Heras muscles through the final day.
• Keeping the riders cool.

Stage 3 - November 14: Tres Rios to Turrialba, 66.7 km

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Images by Rob Jones/www.canadiancyclist.com

• Roberto Heras (Giant) and Manuel Prado (Sho-Air/Rock N'road) relax before the start of Stage 3.
• The first climb was a lot steeper than many expected.
• Federico Ramirez (Bcr-Pizza Hut) attacked early and rode away from Paolo Montoya (Economy Rent A Car).
• Paolo Montoya (Economy Rent A Car) couldn't match Federico Ramirez's (Bcr-Pizza Hut) speed on the first steep pitch.
• Roberto Heras (Giant) was climbing well, but broke his chain twice on the final descent.
• Thomas Dietsch (Gewiss-Bianchi) continues to move up, and is now only a minute out of third.
• Teammates Enrique Artavia (Super Pro - Economy) and Marvin Campos (Super Pro - Economy).
• Marvin Campos (Super Pro - Economy) finished the day in fifth.
• Cory Wallace (Freewheel Cycle) continues to move up, finishing seventh on Stage 3.
• Adriana Rojas Cubero (Bemosa / Pq) had a slow start to the stage before rallying on the final downhill to take her third straight win.
• At times pushing 'seems' easier but there's no such thing as easy at La Ruta.
• Sandra Walter (Pedal Magazine) continues to hold second in the women's standings.
• That first climb generated a lot of hurt for the riders.
• Mike Charuk (Team Whistler/Ryders) adjusts his fork before the descent.
• Andrew Handford (Different Bikes) is third in Master B after three stages.
• The final descent started out fast for the riders.
• The riders cool off after a long hard climb.
• The final descent through a coffee plantation was loose and slippery on the gravel.
• Racer services include full bike wash and tune up after each stage.

Stage 2 - November 13: Ciudad Colón to Tres Ríos, 76km

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Images by Rob Jones/www.canadiancyclist.com

• Stage 2 begins under sunny skies and warm conditions.
• Paolo Montoya (Economy Rent A Car) attacked early determined to ride back into the race.
• Federico Ramírez (Bcr-Pizza Hut) chases Paolo Montoya (Economy Rent A Car) after his early attack.
• Cory Wallace was the top North American in ninth.
• Jan Kopka is one of four Czech competitors at this year's event.
• Sandra Walter finished second in the women's category on the stage.
• It was a long walk to the aid station as this competitor found out the hard way.
• Too bad they don't have time to take in the spectacular views.
• Riders fill up at the feed station before heading on.
• Paolo Montoya (Economy Rent A Car)
• Federico Ramírez (Bcr-Pizza Hut)
• Enrique Artavia
• Roberto Heras (Giant) finished the day in sixth.
• Thomas Dietsch
• A rider descending into San Jose for the finish.
• Mike Charuk is the Master B category leader.
• Tony Routley holds second in the veteran class on general classification.
• Some of the locals have impressive support crews.
• Veterans leader Roberto Ballesteros.
• Adriana Rojas Cubero is the women's leader.
• Sandra Walter was the second woman to finish Stage 2.

Images by La Ruta

• Adriana Rojas tries to stay away from Poison Oak.
• Eddy Pérez on the single track.
• Federico Ramírez-Paolo Montoya lead the way.
• Lico Ramirez on the tricky descent.
• Podium with (l-r) Federico Ramírez, Paolo Montoya and Enrique Artavia.
• Radoslav Sibl on the open section.
• Roberto Ballestero hits the dark forest.
• Roberto Heras shows he knows how to off-road as well.
• Thomas Dietsch shows good control over bike and body.
• Tony Routley is chased by two riders.

Stage 1 - November 12: Jacó to Ciudad Colón, 110km

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Images by Rob Jones/www.canadiancyclist.com

• It was still early morning as riders took to the start line.
• On your bike: The peloton sets out on the opening stage.
• Heart Akerson is a La Ruta legend.
• The steam rises off the road as the riders get into it.
• Riders head up the first climb.
• The field was split apart early on the first climb.
• The early lead bunch on the climb as the day breaks.
• A rider at the front early on.
• Sara Bresnick-Zocchi and Adriana Rojas Cubero were the top two in the women's field.
• Federico Ramirez (BCR-Pizza Hut) crosses a creek.
• Roberto Heras (Giant) is followed by a quad bike.
• Thomas Dietsch thought it would be quicker to run over the creek.
• Thomas Dietsch is watched by a group of fans.
• Roberto Heras (Giant) tries to remove some of the mud from his glasses.
• Paolo Montoya was the early aggressor.
• Paolo Montoya and Federico Ramírez.
• Thomas Dietsch chases back to the leaders.
• Roberto Heras (Giant) struggled with the constant climbs.
• Thomas Dietsch, Paolo Montoya and Federico Ramirez (BCR-Pizza Hut).
• Enrique Artavia
• Thomas Dietsch looked strong early on the climb.
• Federico Ramirez (BCR-Pizza Hut) attacks his rivals.
• Federico Ramirez (BCR-Pizza Hut) quickly gapped Thomas Dietsch and Paolo Montoya.
• Enrique Artavia was the revelation of the day.
• Roberto Heras (Giant) cracked by the third large climb.
• Roberto Heras (Giant) found it hard going on the hills in Costa Rica.
• Federico Ramirez (BCR-Pizza Hut) walks in with the victory on Stage 1.
• Federico Ramirez (BCR-Pizza Hut) is well on his way to becoming the first five time winner of La Ruta.
• The podium finishers after the first stage in Costa Rica.

Images by La Ruta

• Bryan Cooke battles through the jungle.
• Federico Ramirez crosses the line with his bike shouldered.
• Federico Ramirez hops off the bike before passing the line.
• Federico Ramírez (l) and Paolo Montoya power towards the line.
• Marvin Campos and Milton Ramos battle through the mud.
• Roberto Heras on the paved section.
• Thomas Dietsch finishes the tough race.
• Thomas Dietsch pushes his bike through the water.
• The podium from left to right with Manuel Prado, Paolo Montoya, Federico Ramírez, Enrique Artavia and Roberto Heras.

Jaarmarktcross Niel

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Images by Cyclingnews

• World Champion Lars Boom on the way to the win in the muddy conditions in Niel.
• Lars Boom focuses on the victory as he plows through the muck in Niel.
• Lars Boom (Rabobank) wins a muddy race in Niel.
• Niels Albert (Palmans-Cras) waves to the fans after taking second.
• Sven Nys (Landbouwkrediet-Tönissteiner) ingests a bit of Belgian soil on his way to third place.
• Sven Nys leads the chase group.
• The elite men's podium: Niels Albert (Palmans), Lars Boom (Rabobank) and Sven Nys (Landbouwkrediet)
• The elite men's podium: Niels Albert (Palmans), Lars Boom (Rabobank) and Sven Nys (Landbouwkrediet)
• Davy Commeyne (Revor) does it tough as he battles to 21st place
• Radomir Simunek (Palmans) finished well down the standings, in 22nd.
• Sven Nys ride alone and tries to find the least mud to contend with.
• Sven Nys (Landbouwkrediet-Tönissteiner) on his way to third place.
• Bart Wellens (Fidea) struggles with the mud in Niel.
• Sven Vanthourenhout (Sunweb) runs through the mud which was a simpler option than riding it.
• Bart Aernouts (Rabobank) did a great job for Rabobank, finishing in sixth
• With the same name as that of the race's location, Niels Albert proved that he's a man to watch with second place.
• Jan Verstraeten (Sunweb Projob) finished the day in 15th.
• Zdenek Stybar (Fidea) and Dieter Vanthourenhout (Palmans) battle it out lower down the field.
• Dieter Vanthourenhout (Palmans) had a less successful day than his cousin, Sven
• Niels Albert (Palmans) has been iun great form recently and continued that with a second in Niels.
• Sven Vanthourenhout (Sunweb) gets balanced on a descent.
• Gerben de Knegt (Rabobank) took it steady as he rode to a top-ten position.
• Zdenek Stybar (Fidea) has had a quiet start to his season, and took 13th in Niels.
• World champion and victor in Niels, Lars Boom, looked good.
• Sven Nys (Landbouwkrediet-Tönissteiner) rides hard in pursuit of the win in Niels.
• Sven Vanthourenhout (Sunweb) cleans himself after the finish in Niels.

Rocky Hill Roundup

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Images by Mike Gladu/PhotoSport International

• Lance Armstrong (Mellow Johnny's) on the start line in Texas.
• Former Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong (Mellow Johnny's) got some training in on his mountain bike.
• Lance Armstrong (Mellow Johnny's) takes the lead, and doesn't look back.
• Riders lined up at the Rocky Hill Roundup.
• Mitch Comardo (Bike Barn / Gary Fisher) relaxed at the start.
• Scott Henry (Trek/VW) enjoys the sun before the start of the Rocky Hill Roundup.
• Lance Armstrong (Mellow Johnny's) edges his way to the start grid.
• Lance Armstrong (Mellow Johnny's) lines up for the Rocky Hill Roundup
• Lance Armstrong (Mellow Johnny's) gets ready for the Rocky Hill Roundup with some stretching.
• moments before the start of the Rocky Hill Roundup.
• The start was not without incident.
• Brian Fawley (Park Place Lexus) gets the hole shot while Payson McElveen and a Bicycle Sport Shop Teammate pile up his wheel, and Armstrong bides his time safely to the right.
• Scott Henry (Trek/VW) leads the race.
• Lance Armstrong (Mellow Johnny's) rides in the three-man front group.
• Bryan Fawley (Park Place Lexus) is followed by Lance Armstrong (Mellow Johnny's).
• Lance Armstrong (Mellow Johnny's) rides off the back of the lead group.
• Lance Armstrong (Mellow Johnny's) has the killer look.
• Focused: Lance Armstrong (Mellow Johnny's) racing the Rocky Hill Roundup.

Toronto International Cyclocross

Race 4 - November 9: Toronto International Cyclo-cross #2 - Elite Men

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Images by Kirsten Robbins/Cyclingnews.com

• Matt White Looking relaxed before the start
• Dan Timmerman about to attack the field fro the gun - Literally
• Tim Johnson must not be cold because he never wears gloves
• Jeremy Powers takes a deep breath before the mass start
• The men's field lined up under dry conditions
• Davide Frattini stretching before a tough day in the saddle
• Tim Johnson take a convincing victory ... Look, no gloves
• The men's podium Timmernam, Powers, Johnson, Jacques-Maynes, Shriver

Images by Jon Safka/www.cyclingphotos.ca

• Tim Johnson (r) and Jeremy Powers are all smiles before the start
• The elite men start in a blaze of colour under a colourless sky
• Colavita-Sutter Home's Davide Frattini rides ahead of Tim Johnson
• Jeremy Powers (Cyclocrossworld.Com / Cannondale) finished almost a minute down on teammate Tim Johnson
• Dan Timmerman (Reynolds) displays nice styling on the small descent.
• Andy Jacques-Maynes (Specialized/Kmc Pb Cal Giant) looked fearsome on his way to a podium place.
• Matt Shriver (Jittery Joe's Pro Cycling Team) rode well to take fifth.
• Matt White (Bikereg.Com / Joe's Garage)  looks good.
• Canada's Andrew Watson (Norco - Evolution Team) will claim sixth
• Canadian Mike Garrigan (Jet Power/Epic Ride) still in the chase group, before he broke his chain
• Davide Frattini (Team Colavita/Sutter Home) finished the day in eighth.
• Tim Johnson on his way to winning the second day of rcing in Toronto.
• Tim Johnson wins in Toronto and looks a little bit happy to do so.
• Down in one, Tim! Tim Johnson tastes the bubbly taste of success.
• The elite men's podium (l-r): Dan Timmerman, Jeremy Powers, Tim Johnson, Andy Jacques-Maynes and Matt Shriver.

Race 3 - November 9: Toronto International Cyclo-cross #2 - Elite Women

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Images by Kirsten Robbins/Cyclingnews.com

• Centennial Park's 'mini' ski hill Where Torontonians learn to ski!
• Josie Jacques-Maynes starting a new 'cross tend
• Rebecca Wellons took the hole shot and a fast first lap
• Natasha Elliott focusing on a second consecutive victory
• The women lined up and ready to roll the dark sky looms over the women's field
• Former T-Mobile rider extrodinaire amy Moore with her daughter Ellie
• The women's podium Jacques-Maynes, Wentworth, Elliott, Wellons, Anderson
• Elliott on the podium answering a few questions for her Canadian fans

Race 2 - November 8: Toronto International Cyclo-cross #1 - Elite Men

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Images by Jon Safka/www.cyclingphotos.ca

• Rain was falling at the elite men's start
• But Jeremy Powers (Cyclocrossworld.com/ Cannondale) is still smiling
• The big boys at the start (l-r): Tim Johnson, Jeremy Powers (both (Cyclocrossworld.com/ Cannondale) and Matt Shriver (Jittery Joe's)
• The elite men start in the gloom of Toronto
• Tim Johnson leads the field on lap two
• Johnson was followed by teammate Powers
• Matt Shriver surges up a slippery climb
• Powers took the lead on the third lap
• Powers was then followed by teammate Tim Johnson
• Andy Jaques-Mayne (Specialized/KMC PB Cal Giant) fighting for fourth
• Steve Tilford (Trek) was giving a top-five placing a nudge
• Matt White (Bikereg.com)
• Canada's Mike Garrigan was having fun despite the tough conditions
• This was a tricky corner for Nathan Cown (Handlebars CC) and Aaron Fillion (Ottawa Bicycle club)
• Ryan Hopping (United Cycle Racing)
• Tim Johnson rode in pursuit of his teammate, Jeremy Powers after some misfortune
• Third overall, Nicholas Weighall (Rad-Racing Northwest) rode a solid race in trying conditions
• Canada's Osmond Bakker (EMD Serono/Stevens) not far back and on the way to claiming 10th
• Powers extents his lead
• Andy Jaques-Maynes and Matt Shriver were battling for fourth
• Matt Shriver (Jittery Joe's) joined in the three-way fight for fourth
• Matt White (Bikereg.com) made the barriers look easy
• Jeremy Powers wins in Toronto
• Tim Johnson finished in second after a tough race
• A happy Nicholas Weigal wheelies in for third
• Andy Jaques-Maynes (Specialized/KMC PB Cal Giant) finished fourth
• Steve Tilford (Trek) finished sixth over three minutes behind Powers
• Johnson's post-race interview with announcer Rick Meloff was done fairly quickly!
• The elite men's podium (l-r): Andy Jaques-Maynes, Tim Johnson, Jeremy Powers, Nicholas Weighall, Matt Shriver
• Rick Meloff and Powers shared a laugh on the podium

Race 1 - November 8: Toronto International Cyclo-cross #1 - Elite Women

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Images by Jon Safka/www.cyclingphotos.ca

• The elite women roll to the start
• Ready to go are Rebecca Wellons (Ridley Factory Team), Natasha Elliott (EMD Serono/Stevens), Josie Jaques-Maynes (Specialized/KMC PB CAL Giant) and Anna Milkowski (Velo Bella-Kona)
• The elite women start in slightly better conditions than the men
• Anna Milkowski made her way through some deep mud on foot
• Catherine Walberg (Trek) seemed to struggle in this part
• Elliott regains the lead and she looked powerful on her way to the win
• Josie Jaques-Maynes takes the barriers
• Catherine Walberg finished in eigth
• Kaitlin Antonneau (Nova Cycle Sports Foundation) rounded out the top ten
• Natasha Elliott was the major player of the day
• Kristin Wentworth (Planet Bike) heading for third
• Josi Jaques-Maynes leading Anna Young (planet Bike) will end up 4th
• Chritina Bouchard (The HUB/Devinci Cyclocross Team)
• Sarah Coney (Team Ultralink)
• Dawn Anderson heads up a slick climb on her way to second
• Dawn Anderson (Oak Bay Bikes)
• Rebecca Wellons (Ridley Factory Team) made it to seventh by the finish
• Laura Bietola (3 Rox Racing)
• Natasha Elliott wins in rapidly fading Toronto light
• Anna Young (Planet Bike) crosses the line sixth

Houtlandcross Eernegem

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Images by Cyclingnews.com

• Vantornout took control initially
• Sven Nys almost looks devastated here but no worries, he was in control again.
• Sven Nys accidentally unclipped here but soon was in charge again.
• Klaas Vantornout hurries up the stairs so he can quickly jump on his bike again.
• Radomir Simunek (Palmans Cras) is also confined to running.
• Martin Bína (Budvar Tábor) is the Czech hope for a bright cyclo-cross future.
• Ben Berden (Revor Cycling Team) won the event in 2003
• Marco Bianco (L'Arcobaleno Carraro) concentrates ahead of the descent.
• Ervin Vervecken (Fidea) has enough experience to make this descent look easy.
• Tim de Kort (r) and Davy Commeyne steam through and try to stay close to the leaders.
• Road specialist Jurgen Van de Walle tried his luck on the cyclo-cross
• Enrico Franzoi powers through
• Simunek at the stairy section
• Vervecken realized there was no elevator and he had to take the stairs.
• Jan Verstraeten (Sunweb) had a smile on his face when he heard that others were looking for an elevator....
• Marco Fontana with his unique bike carrying technique.
• Robert Gavenda rides for the strong Fidea team.
• Tom Desmet (Asfra Racing Team) enjoyed the racing in his native Belgium.
• Jurgen Van de Walle was handicapped by a bad starting position, s he usually only races on the road.
• Bína gives it a go
• Fontana goes all out in his effort.
• Jonathan Page (Planet Bike) in the stadium section of the parcours.
• Van de Walle used the cross as a diversion in his road training.
• Geert Wellens (AVB-USSspa) rolls along
• Dieter Vanthourenhout (Palmans) raced strongly and finished fourth.
• Jonathan Page (Planet Bike) rode a good race in Belgium.
• Sven Nys concentrates while storming away from the competition.
• Nys ahead of the rest and showing his dominance once again.
• Nys alone at front for a while, but the others clawed their way back into the race.
• Nys couldn't be stopped by some stairs either.
• Nys and Vantornout sprint it out for the win.
• Nys takes it
• Another great win for the Belgian
• The podium with winner Nys in the centre and runner up Klaas Vantornout (Sunweb) on the right. Third-placed Thijs Al (AA Drink - BeOne) is on the left.

Images by Stijn Vercaemer/www.CyclingView.be

• Thijs Al takes the lead on the first lap
• Klaas Vantornout (Sunweb) rode a great race and finished on the second place
• Jan ‘jakke’ Verstraeten gave all he got in the sand of Eernegem
• Robert Gavenda (Fidea) was well down the standings
• Kevin Pauwels (Fidea) rides in the sand
• Former Italian champion Enrico Franzoi (Liquigas) rode well today
• Ben Berden (Revor) made it a solid day for the Revor team
• Davy Commeyne (Revor) took 11th against some strong competition
• Kevin Pauwels (Fidea)
• Sven Nijs (Landbouwkrediet) turns back for another lap
• Pieter Ghyllebert (Topsort Vlaanderen) gets into 'cross for the off season
• One of the local boys riding for the Easypay crew
• Radomir Simunek (Palmans) on the hurdles
• Jakke Verstraeten (Sunweb)
• Former US national champion Jonathan Page rode well to take fifth
• Kevin Pauwels (Fidea) finished the day in ninth
• Jonathan Page took the stairs powerfully
• Erwin Vervecken (Fidea) had an unlucky day, finishing in 13th
• The podium (l-r): Thijs Al, Sven Nys and Klaas Vantornout
• Klaas Vantornout's camper is a bright little number

Sei Giorni di Milano

Day 6 - November 9:

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• A guard of honour was formed for Paolo Bettini as he bowed out of professional cycling
• Paolo Bettini and Sebastian Donadio finished together in the Madison, although Bettini got the Argentinian on the line
• Joan Llaneras and Paolo Bettini celebrate their overall win in the Milan Six-Day
• Llaneras and Bettini on the podium after taking the win
• Big bangs and celebrations as the Sei Giorni di Milano wraps up

Day 5 - November 8:

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Road world champion Alessandro Ballan popped in for a look at the proceedings in Milan
• Two of Italy's favourite riders, Ivan Basso (l) and Mario Cipollini (r) enjoy the hospitality
• Just weeks after his comeback, Ivan Basso is surrounded by the Italian media
• Paolo Bettini was smiling again after recently crashing on the boards
• Two Olympic champions get into the sling of things in Milan
• Paolo Bettini leads Filippo Pozzato in the 60-minute Madison
• 'I reckon I might give them a nudge...' says Mario Cipollini to himself. Well, maybe...
• Filippo Pozzato (l) and Paolo Bettini follow the derny
• Two former Giro champions - Francesco Moser (l) and Gilberto Simoni (r) in Milan
• Alberto Ongarato gets stuck in to some food between races
• Alessandro Petacchi poses in the pits while his former team mate Alberto Ongarato rides above on the boards
• A great setting in Milan as six-day racing meets trade show
• The short track in Milan is typical of most six-day venues
• And as usual, there's hospitality for those wanting to enjoy the finer side of life with their cycling
• Volodymyr Zagorodniy slings Yaroslav Popovich into the fray
• Looking very cool is Pozzato as he speeds around on his lap in the Madison
• Luke Roberts made a welcome return to the velodrome. The Australian is a former Olympic champion in the team pursuit
• You can't keep a good Cipo down when there are lovely ladies on hand to pose with!

Day 3 - November 6:

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Italian Paolo Bettini arrives at the Sei Giorni di Milano.
• Paolo Bettini puts on a new helmet after smashing his previous one in a crash on day one of the Sei Giorni di Milano.
• Ready to go: Paolo Bettini is pushed off on day three of the Sei Giorni di Milano.
• Paolo Bettini back at it after a crash Tuesday in the Sei Giorni di Milano.
• Italy's Paolo Bettini on a test run before day three of the Sei Giorni di Milano.
• Derny pilot: "Are you ready" Bettini: "I have to admit I don't want to take risks."
• Walter Perez gives his partner a sling.
• Claudio Cucinotta with Angelo Furlan.
• Chris Hoy and Roberto Chiappa line up.
• Walter Perez in action.
• The Sei Giorni di Milano.
• Paolo Bettini and Joan Llaneras in the middle of the Madison.
• Angelo Ciccone and Fabio Masotti
• Arnaud Tournant and Chris Hoy with Roberto Chiappa and Teun Mulder (r-l)
• Paolo Bettini reaches out to Spaniard Joan Llaneras
• Matteo Montaguti
• Gilberto Simoni track-side.
• Riders in action at the Sei Giorni di Milano.
• Filippo Pozzato
• Chris Hoy wins the Sprinter Cup.
• The Sei Giorni di Milano.
• Luke Roberts over Paolo Bettini (green) in the Madison.
• Filippo Pozzato takes a turn.
• Spaniard Joan Llaneras
• Luke Roberts
• Scotland's Chris Hoy readies for the sprint.
• Italy's Manuel Quinziato
• Paolo Bettini slings Spaniard Joan Llaneras into action.
• Spain's Joan Llaneras
• Paolo Bettini
• Italian Paolo Bettini welcomed back after his crash on day one.
• Working out the kinks: Paolo Bettini with masseur.

Day 2 - November 5:

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Gianni Bugno track side.
• Filippo Pozzato is slung in the Madison.
• Motor-paced: A derny driver leads Filippo Pozzato out.
• Chris Hoy
• Angelo Furlan and Claudio Cucinotta, l-r.
• Alberto Ongarato wins.
• Fabio Sacchi and Alberto Ongarato, l-r.
• Chris Hoy over Arnaud Tournant.
• Elia Viviani in good company.
• Elia Viviani wins the elimination.
• Elia Viviani
• Argentinean Walter Perez.
• Matteo Montaguti and Giairo Ermeti in the Madison.
• Manuel Quinziato works with Leon Van Bon, l-r.
• Silvio Martinello at the Sei Giorni di Milano.

Day 1 - November 4:

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Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Riders on the temporary velodrome constructed specially for the EICMA trade show.
• Paolo Bettini, r, and partner Juan Llaneras, l, presented Tuesday at the Sei Giorni di Milano.
• Press gather for the Sei Giorni di Milano
• Italy's Paolo Bettini, 34, before the first day of racing and his last race as a professional.
• Medical staff race to Paolo Bettini's side after the Italian fell hard on the track.
• Paolo Bettini is secured on a stretcher before being taken to a near-by hospital, where he was cleared of any serious injuries.

Superprestige Veghel-Eerde

Race 5 - November 2: Elite Men

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Images by Isosport

• Niels Albert wins the race in Veghel
• Albert already scored season win number five
• The Belgian has a super season and is becoming a real threat to Sven Nys.
• Lars Boom wins the sprint for second, ahead of Sven Nys.
• A familiar podium with only the order changing every race.
• The finger of Sven Nys bandanged after he dislocated it on Saturday.
• Radomir Simunek (Palmans) took the early lead.
• Belgian champion Sven Nys
• Jan Verstraeten (Sunweb)
• Wilant Van Gils
• Wim De Vos
• Lars Boom tackles the downhill.
• Niels Albert (Palmans) recovered from a hard race on Saturday to win.
• Lars Boom (Rabobank) on the run-up.
• Jonathan Page (Planet Bike) leads a chasing group.
• Niels Albert in a controlled skid on the fast turn.
• Klaas Vantornout (Sunweb) takes the turn hot.
• Lars Boom focuses on the task ahead.
• Dieter Vanthourenhout (Palmans)
• Sven Vanthourenhout (Sunweb) struggles to keep control in a slippery turn.
• Niels Albert (Palmans) strode away with the win in round two.
• Thijs Al (Be One)
• Sven Nys a bit worse for the wear after a series of crashes in recent weeks.
• Dieter Vanthourenhout (Palmans)
• Lars Boom checks to see where Sven Nys is.
• Lars Boom (Rabobank) is coming into form after a slow start to the season.
• Richard Groenendaal (AA Drink)
• Lars Boom keeps an eye on Nys.
• Rob Peeters (Landbouwkrediet-Tonissteiner)
• Sven Vanthourenhout (Sunweb)
• Erwin Vervecken (Fidea)
• Petr Dlask in action
• Page came in 15th place.
• Jonathan Page (Planet Bike) clad in black instead of the usual red.
• Ben Berden (Revor)
• Sven Nys rode with a bandaged finger after dislocating it in Koppenbergcross.
• Lars Boom (Rabobank) kept his rainbow bands clean after the mudbath the previous day.
• Dieter Vanthourenhout (Palmans) leading the pack
• Bart Wellens (Fidea) came in fifth in Veghel-Eerde.

Race 4 - November 2: U23 Men

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Images by Isosport

• Jan Van Dael (Sunweb Projob) in the lead.
• Dave De Cleyn (Scott)
• Dave De Cleyn (Scott) on the run-up.
• Marek Konwa (Empella) leads the pack in the U23 race.
• The lead group in the espoirs race.
• Marek Konwa (Empella) takes the win in the U23 race.
• Marek Konwa (Empella) heads onto the podium after winning round two.
• The U23 podium in Veghel-Eerde: Jan Van Dael (Bel), Marek Konwa (Pol) and Dave De Cleyn (Bel).
• Jan Van Dael (Sunweb Projob) poses after taking the leader's jersey in the Superprestige.
• Jan Van Dael (Sunweb Projob) with the leaders jersey and his Ridley

Amstel Curaçao Race

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Images by Leon van Vliet

• Fränk Schleck enjoyed the unusual race setting as well as his brother Andy (l) and Laurens Ten Dam (right).
• Andy Schleck takes the win ahead of Stijn Devolder.
• The podium with winner Andy Schleck surrounded by runner-up Stijn Devolder (l) and Theo Bos.

Images by Roberto Bettini/www.bettiniphoto.net

• Fränk Schleck (CSC Saxo Bank) presented at the race's start.
• Laurens ten Dam & Bauke Mollema with the locals.
• Belgian Champion Jürgen Roelandts (Silence-Lotto)
• Theo Bos drives the pace.
• Winner of Ronde van Vlaanderen, Stijn Devolder (Quick Step), rides in the Amstel Curaçao Race.
• Belgian champion Jürgen Roelandts (Silence-Lotto)
• Stijn Devolder (Quick Step) followed closely.
• Fränk Schleck has a word with his brother Andy, l, during the Amstel Curaçao Race.
• Andy Schleck (CSC Saxo Bank) wins over Stijn Devolder (Quick Step).
• Andy Schleck (CSC Saxo Bank) wins the Amstel Curaçao Race
• Theo Bos takes third.
• Belgium's Stijn Devolder (Quick Step) in the pool with kit.
• Andy Schleck (CSC Saxo Bank) satisfied with the Amstel Curaçao Race win.
• Jurgen Van den Broeck (Silence-Lotto)
• Bauke Mollema cools off after his third place
• Luxembourg's Andy Schleck (CSC Saxo Bank) on the podium.
• Andy Schleck (CSC Saxo Bank) congratulated by his brother Fränk, l.

Koppenbergcross

Race 3 - November 1: Elite Men

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Images by Isosport

• Niels Albert (Palmans-Cras) early in the race before the UCI leader was bogged down by the mud.
• Sven Nys (Landbouwkrediet - Tönissteiner) on his way to the overall win in Oudenaarde.
• Niels Albert (Palmans-Cras) has a face full of mud after taking third in the Koppenbergcross.
• Dieter Vanthourenhout is thinking a trip to the pits for a good powerwash might be nice.
• The famous koppenberg provides a formidable obstacle in the race.
• Riders are still clean on the famed koppenberg climb on the first lap.
• The top riders chose to run the hill as the mud made it unrideable.
• When the going gets tough, Nys takes the lead.
• Jonathan Page carries his mucked up bike.
• Nys leads through the ankle-deep muck.
• Fans lined up in the foul weather to watch the riders in the mud pit.
• Parts of the course were unrideable.
• The mud covered the riders front and back.
• Sven Nys (Landbouwkrediet - Tönissteiner) and world champ Lars Boom are covered in the great Belgian mud.
• The course was just a little bit muddy.
• Under all that mud is Sven Nys.
• Sven Nys (Landbouwkrediet - Tönissteiner) emerged victorious for the third year in a row.
• Kevin Pauwels a tad muddy after the Koppenberg cross.
• Lars Boom leads the break royale
• Boom powers up the Koppenberg
• Fidea chasers Peter Dlask and Zdenek Stybar try to claw themselves back into the race.
• The number 1 is already covered in mud and the rainbow stripes will be next to go.
• This looks like ... well, it could be anybody, but it turns out to be Bart Wellens (Fidea).
• World Champion Lars Boom leads Klaas Vantornout (Sunweb) in the early part of the race.
• Petr Dlask (Fidea) shoulders his bike to run up the hill.
• Richard Groenendaal (AA Drinks) in his last Koppenbergcross
• Kevin Pauwels (Fidea) took his bike on the left shoulder.
• Swiss rider Christian Heule (Stevens - Hypo) was suffering in the tough conditions.
• Gerben de Knecht (Rabobank) struggles up the hill.
• Wesley Van der Linden rides for Sunweb but there was no sun on Saturday.
• Jan Soetens (Revor) looks like he was playing in the mud too long.
• Zdenek Stybar (Fidea) chased hard but never made it to the front group.
• Enrico Franzoi (Liquigas) finished 11th but he may have had fonder memories of riding in this year's warm Vuelta.
• Lars Boom rolled over the line in second after being unable to answer Nys's last attack.
• Niels Albert rolled home in third after courageously fighting back each time he crashed...
• Sven Nys celebrates after the race.
• The elite men's podium: Lars Boom (Rabobank), Sven Nys (Landbouwkrediet - Tönissteiner) and Niels Albert (Palmans-Cras)
• Albert checks out the finger of Nys on the podium. Nys fortunately didn't break it and will be able to continue racing without a break, so to speak.

Images by Stijn Vercaemer /www.cyclingview.be

• Davy Commeyne (Revor cycling team) in the first lap of the race.
• Sven Nys (Lanbouwkrediet) and Lars Boom (Rabobank) ride through the muddy conditions.
• Richard Groenendaal in his last Koppenbergcross
• Lars Boom (Rabobank) looks like a muddy monster
• Klaas Vantornout (Sunweb) rides in the muddy conditions.
• Niels Albert (Palmans-Cras) in his last 100 metres of this year's Koppenbergcross.

Race 2 - November 1: U23 Men

For a thumbnail gallery of these images, click here

Images by Brecht Decaluwé

• Heading into the first turn the switch from the asphalt into deep mud was tricky.
• American Daniel Summerhill is checking out his back tyre and he doesn't like what he sees. His puncture just shortly before the racers tackled the Koppenberg was bad timing, as no pit was nearby.
• The racers shortly before the climb of the Koppenberg.
• Summerhill had to abandon the race due to his flat tyre, after a strong start saw him go head to head with eventual winner Philipp Walsleben.

Images by Isosport

• The U23 podium with winner Philipp Walsleben in the centre, second placed Sven Verboven on the left and Kevin Cant.
• Walsleben used his rivals to stay upright on the podium.

For more photos, please consult our archives.