Team Dimension Data’s Mark Cavendish took third on the second stage of the Abu Dhabi Tour today.
Marcel Kittel (Quickstep-Floors) took the win right on the line from Caleb Ewan (Orica-Scott).
Cavendish also retained the overall race lead heading into tomorrow’s climbing stage.
Team Dimension Data’s Mark Cavendish took third on the second stage of the Abu Dhabi Tour today. Photo: ANSA – Perri/Bazzi
The stage took riders on a 153km trip around Abu Dhabi with another sprint showdown at the Al Marina.
After winning yesterday’s stage it was up to Team Dimension Data to control the early six-rider breakaway and it was Igor Anton and Johann van Zyl who took on this responsibility.
With a number of sprint teams also interested in the chase, there was no lack of support to keep the escapees within touching distance.
With 10km to go, the writing was on the wall for the attackers and the sprint finale began to unfold.
Once again Team Dimension Data left its leadout late, only moving to the front with 2km to go. Bernie Eisel, Reinardt Janse van Rensburg, Mark Renshaw and Cavendish was the order.
The African Team came under strong competition from the Orica-Scott and they were just able to nudge ahead in the final 700m.
Cavendish latched on to the wheel of Ewan and looked to be in prime position. As Cavendish made his push for the line down the left, Ewan was able to hold good speed.
The Aussie thought he had it and as he sat up to raise his arms in salute, Kittel snuck under his right arm to take the victory.
