Newton finishes sixth

CHRIS Newton returned from Ireland this week after a successful campaign in the prestigious FBD Insurance Ras, the tough eight-day stage race which attracted some of the best riders from across the world.

Newton, the 35-year-old Oldham-based rider who has won World Championship and Olympic medals in track racing, is also a top road racer and led the Rapha Condor squad superbly in the Ras.

Newton finished sixth overall, but his team-mate Simon Richardson led the race for the final few stages and held on to the prestigious yellow jersey to cap a brilliant week for the riders in black.

After finishing in the bunch on the first two stages, Newton battled to second in the 188-kilometre third stage from Cobh to Cahirciveen. He was part of a three-rider break, but was beaten to the victory by the experienced top professional Jaan Kirsipuu, who now rides for the Norwegian Giant Veolia team.

That result moved Newton up to ninth overall in a field of 162 riders, and he improved steadily from there.

He moved up to seventh the next day after finishing 27th on the stage, and finally sixth as some of his rivals struggled to complete the eight stages.

Sunday's Oldham and Tameside CTC club run is to Luddenden Foot near Halifax. Meet on Union Street, Oldham, near Chaucer Street (grid ref SD 924 048) at 9.30am for a 9.45 start. Details from Kathleen Collins on 01457 764021.