Leipheimer wins 1st stage

California - American Levi Leipheimer won the first stage of the USA Pro Cycling Challenge on Tuesday, finishing the 159.8km stage in four hours, 28 minutes and 22 seconds.

Leipheimer, who rides for RadioShack, sprinted to the finish, distancing himself from the lead group with about 450m remaining.

Sergio Luis Henao, of Colombia, was second, with Frank Schleck, of Luxembourg, seven seconds behind Leipheimer in third.

Leipheimer will have an 11-second advantage going into the next stage on Wednesday. Christian Vande Velde finished fifth on Tuesday and is second overall.

Tejay Van Garderen of Montana is third overall, 17 seconds adrift.

Leading results of Tuesday's 159.8km stage on day two of the inaugural USA Pro Cycling Challenge:

1. Levi Leipheimer (USA/RadioShack) four hours 29 minutes 22 seconds
2. Sergio Luis Henao Montoya (COL) at 4secs
3. Frank Schleck (LUX) at 7secs
4. Cadel Evans (AUS) st
5. Christian Vande Velde (USA) st

Overall standings

1. Levi Leipheimer (USA) 15 points
2. Sergio Luis Henao Montoya (COL) 12
3. Frank Schleck (LUX) 10
4. Cadel Evans (AUS) 7
5. Christian Vande Velde (USA) 6