Has British cycling EVER been in a better state? I'd say not. The team performance throughout the World Championships was unprecedented, and their efforts Herculean.
Bradley Wiggins deserves MORE credit. Despite an eye-catching ride to finish second in the time trial (further compounding hopes he may be ready to challenge for the top step of the podium in next year's Tour de France), his true courage and fortitude showed through in the road race the following day.
The British team had one goal: deliver mark Cavendish to the line as part of a bunch sprint for the title. A scenario that played into the hands of the Manxman, and ultimately worked.
Wiggins put in a mesmerising turn at the head of peloton inside the last 10km to really drive the pace up, and despite Cav losing Thomas's wheel in the stretch, he latched on to his nearest competitor and then pulled away with trademark ease. It is the first time in over forty years (Tommy Simpson 1965) that a Brit has won the Gold in this event, and, for the first time ever, it was the result of such a complete team performance.
With Wiggins now focusing on next year's Tour de France - a race he claims he can win after achieving fourth place in 2009 before crashing out with a broken collarbone this year) - we wonder how big British cycling can get.
With an already world-class pedigree, the home soil Olympics next year look set to solidify our reputation, not just on the track, but on the road as well.
A new super power in sport? If Bradley Wiggins is wearing Yellow by the end of July, I think the case will have been made.
Pick up THE HARE newspaper at Night and Day, Bar Centro, Font or Tiger Lounge in Manchester town centre, or the Oakwood in Glossop.
E-mail theharenewspaper@hotmail.co.uk with questions, comments or contributory pieces.
No comments:
Post a Comment