Newton gravitates towards victory

CHRIS NEWTON (Recycling.co.uk) faces the most crucial and difficult stage of the FBD Insurance Ras tomorrow when the survivors head for the Wicklow Mountains, but the talented English cyclist is already poised to lift the George Plant Trophy for a second time.

Newton, who has Olympic silver and bronze pursuit medals as well as world championship gold medals from both the points race and this year’s pursuit championships, may only enjoy a lead of eight seconds ahead but it should be enough.

Malcolm Elliott, who lies second overall, admitted after yesterday’s stage from Templemore to Abbeyleix that Newton is the strongest man in the race and only misfortune can deprive him of victory.