Mark Cavendish won the inaugural Abu Dhabi to Al Ain Classic in the United Arab Emirates at the weekend.

The Manx Missile edged past Yousif Mirza and Italian rider Roberto Ferrari of UAE Team Emirates to win the 190-kilometre one-day event, completing the distance in a time of 4 hours, 31.49 minutes.

After a season severely disrupted by injury and illness, Cav was understandably pleased to end the year with his second win of the campaign, having also won a stage in the Abu Dhabi Tour in February.

’It was an incredible day of cycling which was made even sweeter by the win,’ commented the Manxman.

’It was great to compete with such an accomplished group of riders, both professional and amateur. I always love cycling in Abu Dhabi and I can’t wait for the tour next year.’

Earlier this week the Team Dimension Data star confirmed that he will ride in next year’s Tour of Yorkshire. The annual event event is the legacy of Yorkshire hosting the Tour de France Grand Depart in 2014 and takes place between May 4-6.

Cav will be hoping for better luck than when he crashed out in Harrogate three and a half years ago when he was forced to abandon Le Tour.

l What is believed to be the 50th annual Christmas social ride for cyclists takes place on Wednesday, December 20.

Douglas ’butties’ will meet at Railway Inn, Union Mills between 6.30 and 7pm, arriving at the Baltic Inn, Foxdale from 7.45 onwards.

Hog roast and carol service. All welcome, good lights and reflective clothing essential.

l The Fellowship of Manx Veteran Cyclists is holding its annual Christmas carvery buffet lunch at the Palace Hotel, Douglas next Thursday, December 14, starting 12.30 for 1pm.

Annual subscriptions are also due (£5), also payable to FMVC, to Sarah Berry, 14 Olaf’s Close, Governor’s Hill, Douglas.