Cycling award for Ballarat's Patrick Shaw

PATRICK Shaw’s standout 2010 season has earned him the Victorian Male Road Cyclist of the Year award.The Ballarat rider clinched the honour after a brilliant year, which included victory in the Scody Cup – which comprised Tours of Gippsland, Geelong, Murray River and Tasmania – and the Launceston to New Norfolk Classic.He was also the best-placed Australian in September’s World Cycling Classic, where he finished 14th, narrowly ahead of Tour de France stage winner Simon Gerrans, and claimed the overall honours in the National Road Series.Shaw, 24, who signed with new racing team Genesys Wealth Advisers at the weekend, said the award came as a surprise. “There have only been very good riders win it and it’s a huge thrill to win such a prestigious award,” Shaw said.“I never expected to, so it was good, especially after such a great year on the bike.“Next year is going to be difficult to better, but that’s what you strive for, to be better each year. I’m looking forward to the new year and new challenge of 2011, and in 2012 making a return to the European scene.”The 2010 Victorian Cyclist of the Year Awards were held in conjunction with the 2011 Australian Madison Championships at the DISC.The night encompassed both the 2009 and 2010 road seasons, and the 2009-10 track season.