Bennett finishes 10th
New Zealand’s George Bennett has completed the latest chapter of his already remarkable road cycling career after finishing an impressive 10th overall in the Vuelta a Espana earlier today.
Colombian Nairo Quintana completed his maiden Vuelta victory when he safely rolled in to Madrid at the end of a three-week battle with Chris Froome. Quintana completed the 21-stage event in 83hr 31min 28sec, with Nelson’s Bennett following a further 14min 7sec back on general classification.
It marked a sensational Vuelta for the Nelson rider since taking over as team leader of the Lottonljumbo team.
Bennett started the Vuelta as a support rider for Steven Kruijswijk, but when the Dutchman broke a collarbone after crashing into a protruding bollard on stage five, Bennett put his hand up to take over.
’’I never expected this,’’ Bennett said following his massive ride.
Bennett had also competed in this year’s Tour de France and at the recent Rio Olympics, where he finished 33rd in the road race.
‘‘A top ten in a big Tour. I am very happy. I was here to work for Steven. After Steven crashed out I started living for the GC per day.
‘‘[Team-mate] Robert Gesink took me by my arm. Also Tankink and Van Emden did. They have a lot of experience. Especially Robert shared his knowledge with me how to tackle a classification. Again, I’m over the moon.’’
Meanwhile, after being outclassed by Briton Froome at the Tour de France, 26-year-old Quintana struck back to become his country’s first Vuelta winner since Lucho Herrera in 1987.
Quintana, who led from stage 10 onwards, adds the victory to his win in the Giro two years ago, which was also the last time his team Movistar won a three-week tour. Magnus Cort Nielsen, of Orica-bikeexchange, won the final bunch sprint in Madrid ahead of Daniele Bennati and Gianni Meersman.