Cycling: McAuley riding high after bumpy year

It has not all been bad news for top road cyclist Gordon McAuley.

Knocked off his bike for the second time within nine months - hit in a road rage incident in West Auckland a couple of months ago following a more serious hit and run in South Auckland on New Year's eve - McAuley has been confirmed as the top rider on the Oceania Pro Tour rankings for 2005-06.

McAuley, 34, winner of the road time trial bronze medal at the Melbourne Commonwealth Games in March, won the award with solid placings in seven designated events including victories in last November's Tour of Southland and double gold at the Oceania Championships.

McAuley is not so keen about having to make a flying trip to Switzerland for the UCI-hosted gala occasion to pick up his award. "It is a long way to go for dinner as it will virtually mean a week away from training," said McAuley, who will receive a trophy and jersey for his efforts.

Among the other winners is top road cyclist Alesandro Valverde, who won the award for top rider on the sports main professional tour.

McAuley seemed as chuffed about winning $1000 in his club's raffle last Sunday as collecting the trophy but no money in Como.

He plans to defend at the Tour of Southland title next month. He will also ride the Tour of the Vineyards in Nelson and the nationals before the Tour of Wellington.