A remarkable ride from the break-of-the day saw Lotto Soudal’s Matthew Holmes take his first WorldTour victory on Willunga Hill. Second place was more than enough for Richie Porte (Trek-Segafredo) to claim the ochre jersey for the second time in his career, rampaging away from the rest of the field and a fading overnight leader Daryl Impey (Mitchelton-Scott).
Stage 6: McLaren Vale to Willunga Hill 151.5km
The traditional showdown on Willunga provided cycling fans both something different and something familiar.
It’s not often we see a breakaway go all the way to the line at the Tour Down Under. However, 26 riders form just about every team established a large gap early on and Trek-Segafredo had to do most of the work to bring them back. I love that Lotto-Soudal’s plan was that – there was no plan – other than let’s see what we can do. Didn’t stop Holmes knowing exactly how to play the finish line tactical game even if he wasn’t sure of his hill racing abilities! Full marks to breakaway teamie Jon Dibben for riding his socks off.
Embed from Getty Images“I’ve never really raced up a climb. I’ve been stuck in Britain for the last six years, which is not a bad thing. This is my second hilltop finish this week, and it seems to suit me.”
In contrast, we are very familiar with how Mr Porte rides Willunga – putting the pace on at exactly the same place in the finale. This year was no exception once his team had put him in a position to strike. Richie may not have added to his Willunga tally, but I’m sure he’ll take that for his second title.
Embed from Getty ImagesYou can’t wipe the smile of his face 😀
Looking at you CCC Team and Simon Geschke. What a breakaway ride to claim third overall.
The team weren’t finished with podium duties as Joey Rosskopf crowned a week of polka dot rides with one last effort to make them his own.
Embed from Getty ImagesPodium and Jerseys
Top Ten on GC
It makes me smile
Two Midge favourites in one tweet
Well said!! We’ll let you know the final total raised for Bush Fire relief
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