the US with a victory in his first race for his new team.

Hubbard was forced out of the European race scene last month when his Mandelieu team in southern France folded.

But he quickly found a place with the Tri State Velo team in Philadelphia and on Sunday repaid their faith in him by cruising to a convincing victory in the 50-mile Milton Classic in New Jersey.

Although no professionals competed in the event, Hubbard proved himself to be a cut above the rest of the Category One and Two riders as he spearheaded a three-man breakaway after just five miles and then dashed into a solo lead three miles later.

Over an undulating course with temperatures topping 100F, Hubbard maintained his lead for the final 42 miles, crossing the finish line some two minutes in front of a chasing pack which included his two Philadelphia team-mates.

A field of 104 riders had started the event.

A sterner test now awaits Hubbard in a three-day, four-stage race later this month.

Elliot Hubbard