Cycling: Paul plunders second gold

Published on Friday 29 July 2011 14:02

City OF EDINBURGH cyclist John Paul struck gold for a second time at the European Junior Track Championships in Portugal when he powered to victory in yesterday's Keirin final.

It was a far from easy ride for the 18-year-old, who finished third in his heat and had to battle his way through the repechage to book his place in the semi-finals.

But he qualified with ease for the gold medal ride and made no mistake in the final, coming home clear of the field to add the title to his success in the individual sprint on Friday. There was no joy for Paul's team mate Callum Skinner who was bidding for a third medal of the championships, though. He collided with a rival in the semi-final of the Under-23 Keirin and crashed out.

The next outing for both riders will be at Meadowbank for this weekend's Scottish Track Championships.

Meanwhile, another teenager, Robbie Hassan (Endura/Pedal Power), was the leading Scot at yesterday's East Yorkshire Classic when he finished in 15th place. The race was won by veteran professional Jeremy Hunt (Sky).