RACING AHEAD

Gree-tour of Guangxi (finishes October 21) Having started on Tuesday, the six-stage Chinese race has its queen stage on Friday, when riders tackle a finishing climb. An in-form Peter Kennaugh will fancy his chances for Bora-hansgrohe.

Japan cup (October 21)

Better known for forcing some of the world’s best riders to partake in sumo wrestling in the preceding days, the 145km race has a tricky parcours which culminates in a hill-top finish. matlock cc hill-climbs (October 21)

In the morning, riders will test themselves on the Riber course, which peaks at a 21 per cent gradient. Then, riders will subject their bodies to Bank Road, which crescendos at a similar brutal grading.

cyclo-cross world cup R3 (October 21) Following two opening races in the USA, the cyclo-cross World Cup starts its European season in Bern, Switzerland. Toon Aerts (Telenet-fidea Lions) has won both races so far. Marianne Vos heads the women’s rankings, with Brit Evie Richards leader of the U23 category.

Tour of Hainan (October 23-31)

Another Chinese race to bring the curtain down on most riders’ seasons, this is the 13th edition. Held across nine stages, there will be chances aplenty for sprinters. Brenton Jones leads Delko-marseille, and Brit Jacob Hennessy will be looking for stage wins for Mitchelton-bike Exchange.