There was a record entry of more than 230 cyclists in yesterday's IBC Front Street Race Series but MacInnis Looby made it a one-man show as he powered to victory in the morning's main event, the one-hour circuit race through the streets of Hamilton.

Having lost to Steve Millington in a sprint finish in the season-opener two weeks ago, Looby came plotting his revenge and executed his plan perfectly.

Throwing down the gauntlet, he broke from the pack early but was reeled in by a hard-pedalling group including Millington and Karl Outerbridge. However, half-way into the race, Looby pounced again and this time his break was successful, catching his opposition off-guard as they recovered from their own unsuccessful mini-breaks.

Exhibiting a workman-like determination, Looby continued to press home his advantage on this inspired ride and by the time he took the bell lap, the only question was who would follow him to the finish.

Millington managed to put some distance between himself and the lead pack to claim second while Outerbridge took third.

Category two rider, Melanie Claude, beat training partner, Julia Hawley, for fourth overall and the top women's prize.

Category three competitor, Chris Conway, enjoyed a brilliant day to finish sixth.

"I guess I wanted to send a message today. I really worked hard in this race. I think the difference between me and the other riders was my cornering. I was taking the corners pretty hard but I noticed the others were a bit hesitant. Once I opened up that gap I just kept working. I am pleased with my ride," said 32-year-old Looby who is aiming to qualify for this year's Commonwealth Games.

The winner said he knew he had to change tactics in order to upstage Millington who is a much better sprinter than he is and that was the reason for the breakaway ride.

"I wasn't confident coming into today. I lost the first race in a sprint and I didn't want to be in that position again today. I needed to get away and be by myself."

Looby, who will shortly be heading off to England and continental Europe to race, said the race two weeks ago was "a real eye-opener" for him.

"I realised that people were out there doing work and if I want to make the Commonwealth Games I have to do the same. So I've been out there doing 400 and 500 miles a week and it's paid off," said the national mountain bike champion.

Claude and Hawley are also trying to make the trip to Manchester and, in this regard, they are heading off to California shortly for the Salano Bicycle Classic to make their first qualifying bid.

"The conditions were great today but it was a tough ride. I am happy that I was able to stick with MacInnis and the others and get a good finish," said Claude of her performance.

Triathlete Jamie Pedro had an unTriathlete Jamie Pedro enjoyed an unforgettable ride on his biking debut, winning the 45-minute circuit race. He outlasted a spirited effort from teenager, Jeffrey Smith, to cross the line first.

"It's my first bike race and I am glad to do so well. You have to ride smart. The hill (Burnaby Road) was a bit hard but I felt confident on the straight (Front Street). I'll definitely do some more," said Pedro.