Cycling: Joseph takes Tour de Femme

Rosara Joseph, 35 seconds ahead going into the last stage of the Tour de Femme cycle race in Nelson yesterday, held on safely to claim the title.

New Plymouth's Kerri-anne Torckler was the first to make a move in the 80km stage and got some help from Christchurch's Nimesha Smith for a short time, but then rode away solo to try to make up some of her 13 minutes deficit on the yellow jersey.

After almost 50km at the front and only 8km to home, the peloton closed in on her.

On the final climb it was Rushlee Buchanan's turn as she powered away for double Queen of the Mountain points. Joseph kept it safe in a fierce bunch-sprint to win the sixth annual event.