Aussies finish Games with Golden Touch

As the sun began to set on the last event of the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games, it seemed only fitting that an Australian hit the finishing line in gold medal position.

Matthew Hayman who rides as a member of the Rabobank club in Holland won the gold medal in the men's road race in a time of four hours and five minutes.

Hayman was followed to the line by South African David George while Australia also sealed bronze as Allan Davis made up the positions on the dais.

The win was Hayman's first since 2003 after he suffered hip injuries in consecutive years that prevented him competing.

The 166 kilometre course was raced over 11 laps of the Botanical Gardens and the ride challenged many of the riders and plenty failed to finish.

As he crossed the line, Hayman pumped his fists in the air to the applause of the crowd and was embraced by team mates Allan Davis and William Walker who finished 11th.

Melbourne now prepares for a fireworks-laden closing ceremony to celebrate the competition.

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