Share

Guardini strikes first in Oman

Al Wutayyah - Italy's Andrea Guardini of the Astana team sprinted to victory on Tuesday's opening stage of the 2015 Tour of Oman.

Guardini crossed the line first in the mass sprint to claim his first win of the season ahead of Belgium's Tom Boonen (Etixx-QuickStep) and Italy's Matteo Pelucchi (IAM Cycling).

"My time finally came. I was really good in Qatar. I've been in good shape since the start of the season in Dubai when I came close to a win," said the Italian, who finished second twice in the Emirate and grabbed second and third-place finishes in Dubai.

"The team worked for me perfectly. We were a bit behind on the last turn but with the headwinds and a false flat climb in the end, it was the perfect setting for a comeback. I followed Boonen's lead and went full throttle in the last hundred metres. This time, the timing was perfect."

Guardini will wear the leader's red jersey after his victory in the 161km stage from Bayt Al Naman Castle to Al Wutayyah.

Wednesday's stage two runs from Al Hazm Castle to Al Bustan over a distance of 195km.

Due to time bonuses, Guardini leads Boonen by four seconds with Austria's Patrick Konrad (Bora-Argon 18) third overall at five seconds.

Results

Stage:

1. Andrea Guardini (ITA/AST) 3hr 45min 37sec, 2. Tom Boonen (BEL/EQS) s.t., 3. Matteo Pelucchi (ITA/IAM)s.t., 4. Alexander Kristoff (NOR/KAT) s.t., 5. Ramon Sinkeldam (NED/TGA)s.t.

Overall standings:

1. Andrea Guardini (ITA/AST) 3hr 45 min 37sec, 2. Tom Boonen (BEL/EQS) at 04s, 3. Patrick Konrad (AUT/BOA) at 05s, 4. Matteo Pelucchi (ITA/IAM) at 06s, 5. Johann Van Zyl (RSA/MTN) at 07s.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1473 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2252 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE