WEATHER FAILS TO DETER THE BIKE FANS
MEN’S STAGE 1 THE HERITAGE STAGE DONCASTER TO SELBY, 178.5KM THURSDAY 2 MAY
THE WEATHER was not kind to the Tour de Yorkshire on its opening stage from Doncaster to Selby.
Conditions varied from grim to appalling as the 130-strong field –from 19 teams – battled driving rain and standing water throughout the 182.5km route.
The elements did not prevent the usual large crowds gathering at roadside with police estimating a turnout of 160,000.
Those who braved the rain along the finishing straight leading to Selby’s abbey were treated to a thrilling finish and a shock winner.
Twelve months ago Yorkshire’s Harry Tanfield outfoxed the sprinters by leading home a breakaway group which had been in front for most of the opening stage.
It was a similar scenario this time with flying Dutchman Jesper Asselman, of Roompot-Charles – holding off the fast chasing peloton who almost made the catch inside the final few metres.
Asselman, first wearer of the coveted blue leader’s jersey, described it as a “beautiful” win and the best of his career, but there was disappointment for Tour de France legend Mark Cavendish (Dimension Data) who had to settle for eighth place, three behind local hero Gabriel Cullaigh (Wiggins), from Holmfirth.
Breakaway companion Jacob Hennessy (Canyon DHB p/b Bloor Homes) was first rider over the day’s only categorised climb, Cote de Baggaby Hill, to scoop the best climber’s jersey and Daniel Bigham (Ribble Pro Cycling) was voted the most active rider
Anti-fracking protesters greeted Team Ineos at the start of their first race since changing from their previous Sky brand.
It was a peaceful protest, but something alien on the startline of a Tour de Yorkshire to hear boors and jeers instead of screaming fans and cheers.