Hermans emerges champion
The final stage of 2017 Tour of Oman, finished in a bunched sprint which Alexander Kristoff claimed for his third stage win while Ben Hermans crossed the line in the pack securing his red jersey and overall title
MUSCAT: The very eventful final day of the Tour of Oman, swept by the wind, crowned the two heroes of this 8th edition of the popular cycling race. As expected the sixth and final stage between The Wave Muscat and the Muttrah Corniche finished in a bunched sprint, claimed in style by Alexander Kristoff who wins his third stage of this edition.
Meanwhile, several positions behind, Ben Hermans crossed the line in the pack securing his red jersey. The Belgian claimed the overall victory, winning the General Classification ahead of Rui Costa and Fabio Aru. A fan- tastic achievement by the BMC rider who captured the biggest win of his career. A success that he started building on day two when he conquered the leader’s jersey, before confirming his domination with another win at the top of Green Mountain on Saturday.
Before taking on the 6th stage of the Tour of Oman, a 130.5km ride from The Wave Muscat to the Muttrah Corniche, including two short but tough climbs, a question came to mind: would overall leader Ben Hermans (BMC) be challenged by his GC rivals on this last stage?
After conquering his second win of this 8th edition at the top of Green Mountain, the Belgian could count on what looked like a decisive lead of 22’’ over Rui Costa (UAD) and 35’’ over Fabio Aru (AST). Looking good for his first overall victory on the Tour of Oman, especially surrounded by a very strong BMC squad.
After bidding farewell to the residential area of The Wave Muscat, the 139 remaining riders of the race took off at 11:08. As soon as the first kilometre, three men managed to take off: Keisse (QST), De Gendt (SVB) and Giraud (DMP).
Their lead grew from 30’’ at km 5 to 2’30’’ at km 18. It reached a maximum of 2’50’’ before dropping as team Aqua Blue started chasing. Indeed, with De Gendt in the front group, the Most Aggressive jersey of Mark Christian (ABS) appeared to be in danger with many points up for grabs.