Robbie McEwen (Davitamon-Lotto) finally got it right in a week dominated by sprinting’s biggest names.

But Michaelsen got the big prize

Photo: Graham Watson

After watching Tom Boonen and Mario Cipollini take the glory earlier, the Aussie boxer punched his way to victory in the 153km final stage from Sealine Beach Resort to Doha Corniche.

There were some early attempts at a breakaway, but the sprinter teams were anxious for one more stab at the spoils before leaving behind the oil-rich Persian Gulf nation. Boonen came through third, but McEwen scored the win that eluded him all week in Qatar.

Team CSC delivered Lars Michaelsen into the overall title, giving the team an impressive podium sweep and the team honors. There was a minor scare late, however, when the 35-year-old Dane punctured with just two laps to go. After a quick tire change, Michaelsen was towed back to the main group with help from teammates and the overall victory was secure.

The final circuit race

Photo: Graham Watson

“I’m extremely happy with this victory. Everything worked out just perfect for the team, which supported me brilliantly,” said Michaelsen. “You can’t win a tough race without a good team, which we’ve certainly had down here.

"Tour of Qatar is getting to be quite a popular race and that makes it all the nicer to win it.”

Full results are posted.

Tour of Qatar, Stage 5, Sealine Beach Resort to Doha Corniche, 153km
1. Robbie McEwen (Aus), Davitamon-Lotto 3 hours, 8 minutes, 6 seconds
2. Alexandre Usov (Blr), Ag2r
3. Tom Boonen (B), Quick Step
4. Steven Caethoven (B), Chocolade Jacques
5. André Korff (G), T-Mobile - all same time

Final overall classification
1. Lars Michaelsen (Den), Team CSC 18 hours, 30 minutes, 6 seconds
2. Matti Breschel (Den), Team CSC, at 1:14
3. Fabrizio Guidi (I), Team CSC, at 1:28
4. Tom Boonen (B), Quick Step, at 5:17
5. Maarten Tjallingh (Ned), Marco Polo, at 5:43

Full results are posted.