Britain's Peter Kennaugh wins Cadel Evans road race

GEELONG, New Zealand (AP) British national road champion Peter Kennaugh launched a well-timed solo attack to beat a powerful field in Sunday's Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road cycle race.

Riding for Britain's Team Sky, Kennaugh attacked with about 15 kilometers (9 miles) to ride and held off a chasing group of 20 riders to win the 174 kilometer (108 mile) event.

Kennaugh put a gap of up to 20 seconds on the chasing group and still had a comfortable margin on the line. His compatriot, star sprinter Mark Cavendish pulled out before the finish at Geelong.

Australia's Leigh Howard won a bunch sprint for second place, just ahead of Italy's Nicolo Bonnifazio. Pre-race favorite Simon Gerrans of Australia was fifth.