Sam Horgan takes 2011 Benchmark title

Series winner Sam Horgan winning the first round ©David Letsche – CyclingPhotos.co.nz

Nov 21st, 11. His teammate Paul Odlin was the first to cross the finish line in the final Benchmark Homes series this weekend but it was Subway Pro Cycling's Sam Horgan who left with top honours.

The Benchmark Homes Series was reduced to just four rounds this year, compared to 6-8 in previous years, due to post earthquake difficulties.

Horgan opened the series by winning the Tasman Classic in August. He gave up his tour leader's jersey to his teammate Tom Hubbard after the latter won the 2nd race in Timaru in September but claimed it back after placing 3rd in Cust the following month where Shane Archbold (Reiker) took line honours.

In Satuday's final race in North Canterbury, Horgan finished in the chase bunch to secure the series win.

"After starting the series five years ago as a novice rider with lots to learn winning the Benchmark series this year means so much to me," Horgan said.

"It's the result of some hard work and great support from my team mates, management and support."

It was a big day of success for the Subway Pro Cycling team with Odlin winning the stage, Hubbard winning the U23 classification and the team taking the Cat 1 honours.

Odlin rode aggressively from the start of the 142km race, making the successful five rider break who finished minutes ahead of the chasers.

Odlin wins the final round ©Bruce Wilson

"I rode within myself knowing that the finishing circuit would be critical in deciding the race," Odlin said.

With two laps to go of the finishing circuit, Odlin attacked hard in the gutter at the start of the finishing straight.

He gained then held a gap of 250m over the last two laps to win in 3h18m41s, 14s ahead of Chris Nicholson (Tasman Wheelers) and Jason Christie (Scotty Browns – Vision Systems).

"I was stoked to get the win for the Subway team and for myself, it was a good day out."

In the 124km women's race, Jeannie Kuhajek (Tasman Wheelers) won the sprint finish, but 3rd place for defending champion Karen Fulton (Team Orbea) was enough to secure her the overall Women's division title.

Benchmark results ....