Thomas Gloag (Visma-Lease a Bike) claimed a outstanding comeback win on stage 3 of the Czech Tour, his first victory as knowledgeable, after solely returning to competitors for the primary time in 362 days on stage 1.
The Brit attacked on the ultimate climb to Dlouhé stráně with 8km to go, chasing down a transfer from Kevin Colleoni (Intermarché – Wanty) and holding off the chasing peloton all the way in which to the road to win by eight seconds from race chief Marc Hirschi (UAE Team Emirates).
Gloag missed nearly a 12 months of racing after being hit by a automobile in coaching final summer season, inserting no expectations on himself in his pre-race feedback. However, he demonstrated the expertise he confirmed pre-crash to carry off the group of GC favourites behind, who performed out a tactical b battle within the finale.
Hirschi marked lots of the strikes from his competitors within the remaining earlier than kicking away within the remaining kilometre to take second on the stage and lengthen his lead over teammate Diego Ulissi who sits second total due to bonus seconds.
“This is indescribable, I did not anticipate this in any respect”, Gloag stated after taking his first skilled win on stage 3. “For me, it was already a victory that I used to be at the beginning right here. So for me to take the win right here is a big bonus.
“It has been an extremely troublesome 12 months. Fortunately, I’ve nice individuals round me who’ve pulled me by means of. I wish to thank everybody who has been there for me, with out them I’d not be standing right here. I hope I can present extra nice issues this season.”
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