Revolution 34: Manchester homecoming ends in victory for Mark Cavendish

A sell out crowd at this weekend's Revolution track meet at the Manchester Velodrome saw road world champion Mark Cavendish storm to a win in the scratch race they also witnessed another storming performance from Team UK Youth who took the overall win on the night and to lead the overall Revolution Championship.

Revolution 34, yes there really have been that many, was the first time Mark Cavendish had raced on the track since the 2009 World Track Championships. The Manxman was certainly who the crowd had come t see and he had them out of their seats time and again whenever he was out on the boards.

The Scratch Race really got the crowd going; early breaks by Team Sky’s Geraint Thomas and Alex Dowsett looked promising, but World Champion Mark Cavendish positioned himself perfectly to execute a win from the front. 

Speaking afterwards Cavendish said: “It’s good to be back, I’ve missed it! The Revolution was hard; more intense than what I’m used to at this time of year. The reception I had was amazing. It’s packed here again tonight, and it’s great.”

Cavendish continued: “It’s nice to race at your home velodrome. It all started off here, so it’s good to come back.”

Rapha Condor Sharp’s Ed Clancy and Andrew Tennant were victorious in the 1km Madison Time Trial, with the team also taking the spoils in the Team Elimination race while Team Sky’s Peter Kennaugh won the intriguing Australian Pursuit.

This Revolution featured one of the strongest endurance line up in recent times. The opening event of the night saw Steven Burke of Team UK Youth pull out an impressive win in the Motor Paced Scratch Endurance Race.

n the Revolution Sprint Omnium, David Daniell continued his form from Revolution 33 and took the win. He also took an emphatic victory at the final event, the 500m Time Trial.

In the DHL Future Stars, Emily Kay further-proved her dominance in the Girls’ event, and maintains her overall lead. In the Boys’ events, Jake Ragen moved up the standings and took the overall lead.

Team UK Youth’s win from Steven Burke and consistent performances throughout the night means that they lead the Revolution Championship with 314 points, ahead of Rouleur with 293.

It wasn't just the racing that had the crowd on its feet, the historic career of Revolution-favourite Rob Hayles was recognised, with the recently-retired British rider receiving a standing ovation from the 4,000-strong crowd and his fellow riders.

Those not lucky enough to be at Revolution 34 will be able to watch and hour of the best bits, naturally featuring Mark Cavendish, this Monday (21st November) on ITV4 at 7pm.