S&L on the Podium at the Tour of Korea/Japan
1 July 2008
Stage 6 of the Tour of Korea Japan saw the riders leave Geochang and ride north to the beautiful town of Gumi.
The race began with a gradual climb over 30km following the SongSung River. It was the team plan to have either Chris Luxton or Tim Roe in the early break of the day, expecting the Uzbekistan National Team to allow non GC riders to escape early in the race.
However what wasn't planned was that both riders made the first break! With no real GC riders in the move, the gap quickly stretched to 1 minute.
Unfortunately Tim Roe suffered a puncture and was unable to rejoin the break away group and forced to rejoin int the main field. This however was a blessing in disguise, with now only 1 S&L rider in the break, any impact of a dominant S&L presence in the move that was likely to disrupt the momentum was now removed.
This enabled Chris Luxton to ride in the 6 man break that also included David McCann from Giant Asia (3rd overall at Herald Sun Tour 2006), Reece Pollock from Marco Polo and Nikolai Schwartz from Team Ista.
At the top of the main climb of the day, it was David McCann who attacked the break and begin his quest for the line, some 30km ahead. Luxton continuing the chase the the remaining break away riders and the main field only 2 minted behind, having their own battle for GC contention.
Coming into the finish, McCann was able to hold off the fast finishing break group to take a brilliant solo win. Luxton then taking 3rd place behind another solo effort from South African, Rabie Johann from Team Neotel.
Pell, surviving the many attacks put in by the GC riders to hold his 7th position overall, still 48 seconds off the lead.
"I stoked with this result" an elated Luxton explained after the stage. "It's been such a hard Tour so far, and for me to get this result for the team has really boosted our morale for more success over the coming days".
Team Manager, Cunningham also very happy with Luxtons effort. "Not bad for a part time bike rider! someone who lays bricks from 9 to 5 to be able to get such a great result against full time pros is a real credit to his determination to succeed".
"Tim will have his day in the sun, he's riding stronger as the Tour goes on, it worked out well for us today in the end".
The team now prepares for a long 185 stage from Gumi to Dangyang tomorrow.
Back
