The 159 km opening stage of Volta Catalunya, with departure and arrival in Calella, had its decisive moment on the downhill after the summit of Alt Collsacreu, with 28 km to go.

Having set a high pace on the hill, Team Sky increased the pace on the downhill and the enhancement of the speed created a small, select group of 12 riders.
 

Among the elite group were Scarponi and Niemiec of Lampre-Merida and they finished 8th and 12th respectively in the sprint won by Meersman (Omega Pharma-Quick Step).

"This morning, I did not think it could be an treacherous stage, I expected a bunch arrival,” Scarponi said afterwards.  “Still, I knew the downhill could be selective, so I preferred to cover it at the front of the group in order to avoid crashes or troubles. Thanks to this decision, I could be in the front group when the selection was made. I knew I would have no chances in the sprint, but I'm happy because Niemiec, who was outstanding today, and I did not lose any seconds on this stage".

Starting at 15.15 on Tuesday Cyclingquotes.com will bring you live coverage of stage 2 at the Volta a Catalunya.