In a rain-soaked stage 12 of the 96th running of the Giro d'Italia, Mark Cavendish - aboard his S-Works Venge - sprinted to his 100th career victory. The milestone win allows Cav to join the ranks of such legendary racers as Eddy Merckx, Mario Cipollini, and current teammate Tom Boonen.
The weather was far from ideal yesterday as the Giro headed into Treviso for what was assured to be a finish for the sprinters. With so few flat stages this year, Omega Pharma-Quick-Step patrolled the front of the peloton for most of the day. Swallowing up the breakaway within the last 500 meters, Gert Steegmans was able to deliver Cavendish to the final where the Manxman's legendary kick saw him cross the line in first place for his third win of the 2013 Giro d'Italia.
No rider has had as much success aboard the Specialized Venge as Mark Cavendish. While winning sprints has become expected of the Manxman, garnering 100 career victories is no small feat and one that few racers lay claim to. Having won the Green Jersey, a World Championship and numerous Tour stages all aboard the bike it seemed only fitting to celebrate Cav's 100th victory with his very own custom S-Works Venge.
"As arguably one of the sports best ever sprinters, Cavendish embodies the spirit and pure speed the Venge represents," explains Brent Graves, Director of Road Bike Product Development. "We wanted to create a Specialized edition bike that not only celebrated Cav's 100 wins, but also highlighted the many accomplishments he's already achieved," added Graves. With some of Cav's monumental wins gracing the top tube as well as a beautifully executed green theme, this limited edition frame is sure to quickly become a collector's item.
At only 27 years old there will surely be many more wins to come for the British sprinter. For all of his commitment, sacrifice and hard work, this is the Specialized way of saying thanks and congratulations on a monumental achievement.