British Cycling president Bob Howden has hailed a "wonder weekend" after Classics wins for Mark Cavendish and Ian Stannard.

Team Sky's Stannard upset the odds to defend his Omloop Het Nieuwsblad title after getting the better of the rest of a four-man lead group otherwise made up of Etixx – Quick-Step riders

Then Cavendish made up for the Belgian team's disappointment by claiming a stunning win in Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne for Etixx - Quick Step to complete a remarkable opening Classics weekend.

British Cycling president Bob Howden said: "Like other British Cycling members I have been thrilled by a wonder weekend for two of our own.

"Winning one Het Nieuwsblad is impressive but it is rarer to successfully defend the title so Ian deserves huge credit.

"And to see Mark back doing what he does best - winning bike races - will put a spring in the step of all supporters of British Cycling.

"Ian and Mark's success - together with Saturday's amazing attempt on the hour record by Dame Sarah Storey - is a tribute to the strength of cycling in this country and, in particular, to the clubs and volunteers who help our brightest talents get the chance their efforts deserve."

Want more of the Classics? Check out our guide.