chain hindered his performance in the four-stage Tour of the Cote d'Azur.

Third and just two seconds behind the leader after the first two stages, Hubbard was looking to improve on his 11th-place finish in the Roquebrune Cap Martin Criterium Classic the previous week when he suffered a flat tyre two laps from the ends.

But, after his chain broke during the third stage, he lost three minutes and 11 positions while switching bikes with one of his team-mates.

Hubbard was unable to gain any ground in the fourth and final stage winding up 14th out of a field of 140 riders.

"I know that one day everything is going to go right and I'll start winning races...I just need my bike to work properly.'' said a very optimistic Hubbard. "Physically I'm in tip-top shape and feeling very strong.'' Yesterday's race was the first of the stage season for Hubbard, competing in the senior circuit for the first time. He has two races next weekend with the 150-kilometre Souvenir Vigano on Friday followed by the 100-kilometre Grand Prix of Biot.

Said Hubbard: "It's a lot harder competing against guys with a lot more experience than me and a lot more miles in their legs.

"These guys are really strong.'' Still the young Bermudian has his sights set on beating the elite riders and making his mark as a professional.

"I'm looking forward to a professional career eventually,'' said Hubbard relaxing at his home in Menton, France. "I have my ambition set for the top and intend to be in the big events like the Tour de France.''