24 May 2006

South African-based Team Barloworld scored another victory at the weekend when the team's star of the moment, Gianpaolo Cheula, was the overall general classification winner of the 58th Course de la Paix (Peace Race) in the Czech Republic, which finished in Hanover, Germany on Sunday.

Cheula took over the leader's jersey on the race's sixth stage last Friday, and maintained momentum throughout the final two stages.

As he started the final and eighth stage in the leader's jersey, it was a given that without any crashes, Cheula would win the stage race. He is only the second Italian to win the race after Michele Scarponi (2004).

It was Cheula's fourth pro win, and his biggest win yet, with his previous three victories all coming in 2002.

"It's wonderful to finally come back and taste the joy of winning," Cheula said afterwards. "A big thanks to my Barloworld teammates. I wish to pay tribute for their excellent work. This success will be the best gift for my 27th birthday next week."

Teammate Felix Cardenas also had a good race, finishing ninth overall.

The prestigious Course de la Paix covers over 1 274 kilometres and has become an important race for talented young riders to showcase their skills.

General Classification

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	International Cycling Union  Team Barloworld

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