 In the fall, Hesjedal had a strong showing in the Italian classic Giro di Lombardia, where he finished sixth in a race that was marked by heavy rain and low temperatures, as only 54 riders out of 197 completed the race.He then looked to end his season on a high note at the Tour of Beijing, putting it all on the line on the hilly fifth stage, where he attacked relentlessly.Only rider Steve Cummings could follow him as he tried to put as much distance as possible between himself and race leader Tony Martin.