Downing wins stage four to take yellow jersey

Russell Downing of the Pinarello CandiTV team took today’s crucial stage of the Tour of Ireland when he sprinted home first of a 13-man bunch that broke clear with 20 kilometres to go.

Downing was an unlikely winner as, with little over 15 kilometres to race, his chain fell off which meant he lost considerable time and energy trying to chase back on the final climb.