Newton takes third

CHRIS Newton took third spot in the prestigious Lincoln Grand Prix on Sunday, but was disappointed after missing out on winning the event he last won in 2000.

Newton made it into a leading break of around 12 riders towards the later stages of the 86-mile event, and had three team-mates for company to help drive the break along and maximise their chances of victory.

However, when eventual race winner Russell Downing pushed on the break split up, and only Newton was able to go with the Candi TV racer, along with Halfords Bikehut’s Ian Wilkinson.

The race takes in 11 laps of a circuit which includes a climb of the one in six cobbled Michaelgate as they head up the hill towards the historic Cathedral and Castle area.

Each time up the hill Downing led out and was the strongest rider.

On the final circuit he held out for the win from Wilkinson, a second further back, while Newton dropped off the back in the final few metres, crossing the line 14 seconds behind.

Newton now goes to Ireland to tackle the tough eight-day FBD Insurance Ras, which he has won twice.

Starting on Sunday, the race takes in some of the toughest terrain the Emerald Isle has to offer, and has attracted several foreign teams as well as six other top British teams.




RUSSIA’S Denis Menchov claimed the fifth stage of the Giro d'Italia when he edged out stage four winner Danilo Di Luca at the summit finish of the Alpe di Siusi.