Team MTN-Qhubeka p/b Samsung conquered the first mountain stage of the Volta a Portugal on Sunday when Sergio Pardilla earned his first victory for the team.

With two kilometres to go, the Spaniard attacked what was left of the lead group to cross the line solo in Mondim de Basto. Africa’s first Professional Continental team came into the race stating its objectives of a stage victory and a high placing in the general classification. Pardilla’s ride was a big step in achieving this as he also moved into the race leader’s yellow jersey.

“I am very happy,” Pardilla said after the victory. “I am feeling very strong and I am happy we could have a good race today. The team was fantastic this whole week so far. After Tour of Austria I had a week of recovery before focusing on Volta a Portugal. I went to altitude training for a few weeks to prepare for the race and my feelings were immediately very good so I was hoping for a good race here. I am happy we could get this result and I am focused on finishing it off strongly for the team.”

“The plan was 100% for Sergio,” sports director, Jens Zemke revealed. “We wanted to protect him and make sure he didn’t lose any energy he didn’t have to. The whole team rode really well and it paid off in the end. Close to the end of the stage Ignas [Konovalovs] was chasing down the leading group and Sergio had great legs in the end to attack."