In Spain a Colombia-Coldeportes rider managed to step onto the final podium wearing the best climber’s jersey: it was Rodolfo Torres, who at the Vuelta a Asturias took a partial revenge after his bad luck on the first stage, when an ill-timed puncture had spoiled his chances with 5 km to go, when he was riding in the front group.
On the second and final stage, 176 km from Soto de Ribera to Oviedo, Torres looked to defend his KOM lead with the team’s support, passing first atop the first categorized climb of the day and taking the points he needed to achieve his goal.
Then eight riders went up the road, of who the last two surrenders only gave up inside the final 10km. They were caught and distanced by a group of five riders who eventually contested the win, with Jesus Herrada (Movistar) taking the stage, while his teammate and stage 1 winner Igor Anton secured the overall classification.
Torres, 11th on the stage, 29 seconds adrift, was 7th overall,
“I was not very luck in the last couple of Spanish stage races, in which my chances were affected by punctures. Nevertheless, being the best climber again after Trentino gives me more confidence. My condition and results in this season were pretty solid so far: now it would be time for a big result, as I think both the team and I actually deserve it," he said."
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