RUTLAND CiCLE CLASSIC 2019 - PHOTO GALLERY

Ask any strong domestic racer about the hardest one-day race on the British calendar, and the vast majority will tell you it's the Rutland GP - known now as the Rutland-Melton CiCLE Classic. Think Tro-Bro Leon crossed with punchy British climbs, and throw in (usually) some naff weather. It's Britain's Belgian Classic, and only the hardest prevail.

On Sunday, Rory Townsend continued his strong start to the season with another podium behind Colin Joyce (UHC Pro) and last year's winner Gabz Cullaigh (Wiggins Le Col). This further cements his position as the man to watch in almost every race this year. As the first big stage race of the year looms in the Tour de Yorkshire, the signs look good.

Enjoy the shots below, taken by team photographer Hugh McManus