The fast men were in the spotlight on the opening stage.
The Tour of Oman, our second race of the season in the Middle East, got underway Saturday with a 177.7 stage between Bushar and Bimmah Sink Hole. The route was flat and ideal for the sprinters, who knew this was going to be their biggest chance of success at this 14th edition.
For that reason, the breakaway didn’t stand a chance, despite at one point having a five-minute advantage. The escapees were easily brought back by the peloton, the last of the leaders being reeled in just second after the last intermediate sprint of the day. The victory went to Olav Kooij (Visma-Lease A Bike), while British Champion Ethan Hayter was the first Soudal Quick-Step rider home.
On Sunday, the peloton will take on a much hillier terrain, a total of four classified climbs being spread out on the course. Everything is set to culminate with the showdown on the short but steep Yitti Hills ascent, where the general classification should see some important changes.
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