Joane Somarriba says goodbye

By Hernan Alvarez Macias in Madrid

Former Grande Boucle féminin and Giro d'Italia femminile champion Joane Somarriba (Spain) rode her last competition today at the women's road race in the World Championships. This outstanding athlete is finishing up her remarkable career at 33 years-old. "I made a very good evaluation of these Championships," said Somarriba to Cyclingnews seconds after she finished the road race in 23rd place. "The truth is that it was a terrible race. I tried to finish in the front, but I didn't feel good. When I trained today, I thought I could do more damage. We compete at a world level where there are many strong people. I knew my attacks couldn't do harm, though I tried."

She dedicated her silver medal in the time trial to her mother. "It's a goodbye; during the race, I didn't have time to think of this goodbye, that it was my last race. I'm glad to achieve it [the silver medal].

"Many years have passed, it's hard to believe that it's the last race, but I should feel happy to end my sporting career. They are beautiful moments."

The Spanish rider finished a brilliant career on Saturday in Madrid. She was World Time Trial Champion in Hamilton 2003 and third in the road race in Zolder 2002. She also won the Grande Boucle féminin three times: 2000, 2001 and 2003 and the Giro d'Italia femminile twice: 1999 and 2000, among other titles.