Richard first in Tour de Cymru (From Free Press Series)

Richard first in Tour de Cymru

The highly successful inaugural Lifeforce Ras de Cymru cycle race organised by the University of Wales, Newport has been so well received by participating competitors from all over the UK that it looks set to become an annual event.

Local cyclist Richard Harris, of the Cwmcarn Paragon team, won the sprint in the first stage of the four-day competition around Raglan and Usk, in fine style. However, it was the team from the Isle of Man that scooped many of the prizes, with their star rider Andy Cook finishing as the overall winner and taking the sprinter's title.

"It's been tough - but a really great event," said Andy after receiving his winners' jerseys.

"Everyone who's taken part has really enjoyed it. What's made it special was most of the riders being based on the university campus with all its great facilities. It's been fantastic having everything on site with excellent food and accommodation."

Simon Bray, head of events services, who organised the event, said: "Feedback from all the 80 riders who took part, the officials and key sponsors, Lifeforce and Morgan Cole, has been marvellous. It's been such a success that we're already planning next year's race, which will again be a four day event open only to teams. Once again priority will be given to teams who take advantage of the overnight facilities and services of University of Wales, Newport."

Commenting on the highlights of the four-day event, Simon said: "The first stage, based on a circuit of Raglan and Usk, produced fast racing with the bunch often travelling at speeds of 35 mph on the dual carriageway sections of the course. Stage two was a 3.4 mile time trial, which included the brutal 1:10 climb up to Llanhennock village. This stage was decided by hundredths of seconds with Martin Yelling of Team MK coming out on top with a time of 9.07 minutes over Matt Clinton to clinch the King of the Mountains jersey.

For more information on the 2005 Lifeforce Ras de Cymru and the race results please view the University's Sports Centre website (sports-centre.newport .ac.uk) or contact Simon Bray on 01633 432202.