Robbie McEwen retires this weekend

[Noodley]

Robbie McEwen is hanging up his <whatever pro cyclists hang up when they retire> on Sunday at the Tour Of California to take up a coaching position. He was always a fighter and his "cloak of invisibility" will likely go down in cycling legend. Love him or loathe him, he was always "good value" on and off the bike...so, good luck to him in his new role and thanks for all the great moments!

http://www.cyclingnews.com/features/video-mcewen-steps-away-from-his-racing-career-after-17-years

 

[raindog]

Blimey, never dreamed someone would start a thread on this. I already put this up in the Giro thread, but may as well stick it in here too.


View: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=Ji_XcHvJvac

 

[Noodley]

I have turned over a new leaf and am being nice and considerate, so thought a thread in tribute to McEwen would be fitting...this might all change if Hibs get beaten in the cup final today!!

 

[Dayvo]

I never really liked him, but he was a top cyclist.

I remember explaining to my mum about the tactics in racing when we were watching the 2007 TdeF stage from London to Canterbury on TV.

About 10-15 miles to go, I explained that, for example, someone like Robbie McEwen, although well down in the pack, normally fights his way through and wins in a sprint finish. We were both amazed to see him do exactly that, although I didn't admit that to her!

 

[thnurg]

Legend. Aside from his wonderful sprint finishes I liked the moment when a wee chav tried to snatch his water bottle after a race. He snatched it back and gave it to another, more polite, fan.

 

[raindog]

Another great Robbie moment - in fact, he mentions it as a highlight of his career. A young Cavendish makes an appearance too.


View: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nlc-s7eI5Cg

 

[Ashtrayhead]

He has always been one of my favourites. I watched the 2007 TdeF stage on Bostall Hill in Abbey Wood and he was right at the back on his own. It's only a small hill that I've always struggled on so I didn't feel too bad after that!