Ovechkin over the moon after Stage Five win

PETALING JAYA: Artem Ovechkin (pic) of Russia showcased his climbing prowess to conquer Stage Five, billed as the queen stage of Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL), as he charged into contention for the overall title.

The Terengganu Cycling Team (TSG) rider raced to victory in the 169.4km contest from Bentong to Cameron Highlands, winning by a whopping 28 seconds from secondplaced Australian Benjamin Dyball of St. George Continental Cycling Team yesterday.

Amanuel Ghebreigzabhier Werkilul of Dimension Da crossed the finish line in 4’25:24 for third spot.

Ovechkin made his move as he approached the summit at Ringlet, breaking clear from the leading group before opening up a 1:40 gap.

The 32yearold, who only signed for TSG last week, never looked back.

“This is a sweet victory and the biggest in a 2.HC race in my career,” said Ovechkin, who also now leads the race for the King of Mountains.

“It’s extra sweet because I have taken two jerseys as well. But there are still three stages to go and we still need to defend this lead.

“I’m confident that we will be able to do it despite Stage Seven from Nilai to Muar being a very long stage,” he added.

Ovechkin swept all the climbing points on offer at Ringlet and Tanah Rata to collect a total of 40 points and move 12 points clear of Forca Amskins’ Colombian rider Alvaro Duarte.

The LTdL resumes with Stage Six, which features a short and flat 108.5km distance from Tapah to Tanjung Malim. The sprinters are expected to do battle for the points classification.