Pearson conquers a windy Warrnambool for second time

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Joel Pearson (Genesys Wealth Advisers) had plenty of time to celebrate as he cruised solo into Warrnambool, claiming victory at the prestigious classic for an historic second time. For the usually prolific Pearson, 2011 has been a somewhat 'light' year, but the 28-year-old proved today he still knows how to win, powering away late in the race for a gutsy victory.

“This is a dream, the biggest thrill of my life,” the jubilant Pearson told a large rain-drenched crowd at the finish line in Warrnambool’s Raglan Parade. “I don’t think I have ever won a decent race in a solo breakaway before. This is a new one for me.”

Pearson finished 13 seconds ahead of teammate Nathan Haas completing a Genesys one-two, with recent Tour of Timor winner Luke Fetch (Search2retain) finishing in third.

Fetch and Pearson defied the rain and strong headwinds that plagued the latter end of the race, to spurt clear of the leading group of 25 riders about 15 kilometres from Warrnambool. The two worked together well before the more experienced New South Welshman found the extra grit to free himself from his younger rival in the final 10 kilometres.

Pearson added that he was pleased to be given the chance to take the victory after a selfless year in support of his now US bound teammates; Von Hoff and Haas.

“I have been playing second fiddle to the likes of Nathan and Steele this year,” Pearson said. “I was happy to do that, but to win a second Warrnambool is an incredible feeling.”

For Haas meanwhile, who recently announced he will be joining the WorldTour next year with Garmin-Cervelo, second in the Warrnambool is enough to crown him the 2011 National Road Series champion.

Genesys had previously also sealed the team's classification for the series.