Toovey the best sprinter and second overall at Melbourne to Warrnambool

The Subaru NSWIS & MS cycling team have finished their 2016 Subaru National Road Series (NRS) season with a second place and sprint classification victory for Ayden Toovey in Melbourne to Warrnambool over the weekend.

While Toovey and the NSWIS team left satisfied, the overall honours belonged to Nathan Elliot who entered the event as an individual entrant. After riding with Toovey and eventual third place getter Robbie Hucker in a breakaway, Elliot made a bold move inside the final two kilometres to claim victory.

For the NSWIS backed team, it was almost the perfect race and in line with the team’s expectations after coach Kevin Poulton declared the team would be racing to win prior to the event – READ HERE.

Although Toovey fell short of victory, the result came after an incredible display from the break away group to stay ahead of the peloton. Toovey’s day was also hampered by a slow leak in his front wheel, however the talented rider persevered to claim his podium position.

The race commenced in chilly conditions, with a breakaway of 12 riders forming early on, the podium trio in their midst. Behind them a chase pack formed, and it was another Subaru NSWIS & MS rider pulling punches as Jake Kauffmann left everything on the road in his final race as a professional.

Second with a slow leak in the front wheel! This kid has some talent! Wel done to all. Well done Ayden! #M2W16

— NSWIS Road Cycling (@NSWIScycling) October 15, 2016

However for the NSWIS team, the day belonged to Toovey, who was in superb form to finish on the podium, and also claim the sprinters title. Additionally he took out the Victorian 200km championship, later saying that the day had gone to plan.

“We discussed our team plan last night, and the plan wad for me to be in the break. I had pretty good legs today, my training has been ideal coming into the race, so to come away with second is a good result,” said Toovey.

Getting ready for podium.. sprint class and 2nd overall! @AydenToovey pic.twitter.com/xFQjJ4cQ6Y

— NSWIS Road Cycling (@NSWIScycling) October 15, 2016

The Melbourne to Warrnambool brought to a close the 2016 season, which has seen the NRS series cover 12 tours through five states and territories around the country.