A strategic breakaway on the ultimate gruelling ascent within the mountains of northern Spain secured Slovenian Primoz Roglič victory in stage 19 of the Vuelta a España, in addition to the chief’s crimson jersey.
The 34-year-old had misplaced the crimson jersey to Australian Ben O’Connor after stage six however has since chipped away on the lead earlier than reclaiming it with a formidable efficiency within the mountains of the La Rioja province.
“I had some very nice recollections from this climb and I did not miss this chance, I am pleased,” Roglič stated.
Whereas a number one group maintained a slim lead over the peloton for many of the race, none tried a breakaway earlier than the 11km climb main as much as the end line at Alto de Moncalvillo.
Roglič noticed a chance midway by way of the demanding ascent and seized it, by no means wanting again.
He crossed the end line alone, 46 seconds forward of Frenchman David Gaudu, who took second place. Denmark’s Mattias Skjelmose completed third.
O’Connor, realizing his lead was at risk, tried to maintain up however completed twelfth.
Roglič now has a one minute and 54 second general lead over O’Connor.
“I used to be a bit damaged on the finish. I truly felt fairly good till midway,” O’Connor stated.
“I wasn’t actually shocked, however I did not count on myself to be so dangerous on the finish. I used to be a bit common to be sincere. However that is simply the fact.”
Reuters
