McLaughlin shows he can last the distance

Monday 7th July 2008, 2:29PM BST.

JAMES MCLAUGHLIN has chalked up another impressive win in one of the longest events in the Guernsey Velo Club’s calendar, the 100km road race around eight laps of the L’Eree circuit.

Despite an early start time, 22 riders began the race and, in a move popular with most competitors, the first ascent of Pleinmont hill was neutralised, meaning that everyone was still together at the summit.

The first few laps were a cagey affair with no one wanting to push the pace on the flat, fearing they could get dropped on the next hill.

On the fourth lap, McLaughlin (pictured) seized the initiative and wound up the pace on the climb. Only a handful of riders were able to stay with the youngster, despite having half the race left ahead of them.