Volta ao Algarve continues this Thursday with a 171.9km ride from Lagoa to Alto da Fóia
Gerben Thijssen (Intermarché-Wanty) won the first stage of the Volta ao Algarve cycling competition on Wednesday.
The Belgian cyclist completed the 200.8km stage between Portimão and Lagos in 4:52:04, with a strong sprint in the final metres to overtake second and third-placed Marijn van den Berg (EF Education-EasyPost) and Jordi Meeus (BORA-hansgrohe).
“Last year I didn’t manage to start the season well, so it was very important to get off to a good start this year. I’ve already got two wins in the middle of February. That’s incredible! And at this level, it proves that I’ve worked hard over the winter to get in this shape”, said Gerben Thijssen at the end of the stage, cited by the Volta ao Algarve website.
“It was a difficult sprint because of the headwind and because of the very steep climb two kilometres from the finish. The team did an extraordinary job. I had all six of my teammates fighting for me throughout the stage. Tomorrow we’ll work for our overall man, Rune Herregodts”, he added.
The second stage of Volta ao Algarve takes to the road this Thursday at 12pm with a 171.9km ride from Lagoa to Alto da Fóia, in Monchique.
michael.bruxo@portugalresident.com
