Sam Bennett of the Decathlon Ag2r La Mondiale team took a commanding victory in the opening stage of the Tour de la Provence, outsprinting former world champion Mads Pedersen. The challenging stage featured three category two climbs and Bennet's win will undoubtedly boost his confidence for the remainder of the race.
Sam Bennett secured his first victory of the new season with a dominant sprint on Friday, surging past former world champion Mads Pedersen to claim the opening stage of the Tour de la Provence. The Carrick-on-Suir rider executed a perfect final push, staying on Pedersen's wheel as he initiated his sprint and then exploiting a gap between the Dane and Marijn van den Berg (EF Education-EasyPost). Both Pedersen and Van den Berg faded to fifth and sixth respectively.
'We came here trying to secure our first win of the season,' said Bennett. 'We knew it was going to be a tough fight, but we managed to get through the first climb, and the team did a fantastic job. The race was challenging with strong winds, which worked to our advantage, especially since it was mostly headwind on the climb.' The Decathlon Ag2r La Mondiale rider will undoubtedly take significant confidence from the win. The stage presented a formidable challenge with three category two climbs, and only 37 riders crossed the finish line in the front group.Bennett, who achieved four victories last season, a number lower than his aspirations, appears to be in top form already. He will commence Saturday's second stage wearing the leader's jersey. 'My team-mates were outstanding, and I want to thank them for their incredible support,' he expressed. 'I'm glad I could give them this victory.
Sam Bennett Tour De La Provence Cycling Victory Sprint Mads Pedersen
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