Known as one of the most aggressive riders in the peloton, Maxim Belkov went on the attack in yesterday's first stage of the Tour of Austria. Even though he failed in his attempt to take the stage win, the Russian got his reward by becoming the first leader of the mountains classification.

Maxim Belkov was the first attacker of the 66th Tour of Austria. He even attacked twice on the first stage (Tulln – Sonntagberg, 182 km) before getting away in the company of four other riders: Martin Weiss (Team Tirol), Nathan Haas (Garmin-Sharp), Andreas Hofer (Team Voralberg) and Dennis Vanendert (Lotto-Belisol). The five got a maximum advantage of 5 minutes and ten seconds but after some 160 kilometers in the front, they were caught at 13 kilometers from the finish. Belkov's reward for the full day of work was the podium where he received the Mountains Jersey with 13 points.

"Trek, Tinkoff and Sky controlled the race. They wanted to arrive in the front for the last kilometers. Finally, the break was caught; however, Maxim did a very good race. I am sure we will have more chances tomorrow when we will work for our local rider Marco Haller," said Team Director Claudio Cozzi.

The victory on the Sonntagberg was for British champion Peter Kennaugh (Sky). Oliver Zaugg (Tinkoff-Saxo) finished second at 11 seconds, Javi Moreno (Movistar) was third at 18 seconds.