The winners of the O Gran Camiño now include Derek Gee, joining the likes of Alejandro Valverde and Jonas Vingegaard, who have won the last two editions. Gee, a Canadian cyclist, showed his skills on the fifth stage of the Camino de Santiago Portuguese, which started in Betanzos and covered 160 kilometers of the province of A Coruña.
Magnus Cort had a great day, achieving his third partial triumph by crossing the finish line first in Santiago de Compostela. He outpaced Carlos Canal, who, despite struggling with a flu, still managed to put up a good fight. Cort’s victory was a testament to his excellent form, and he took the top spot on the podium.
Among the participants in the Galician round was a cyclist with a notable surname: Llaneras. Pol Llaneras, the son of Joan Llaneras, a renowned track cyclist and Olympic medalist, was a last-minute addition to the competition. As a member of the Illes Balears team, Pol Llaneras stated that he didn’t initially plan to participate but was called in due to some last-minute changes. He expressed his enthusiasm for the event and his desire to gain more experience competing against top cyclists.
In an interview, Pol Llaneras discussed the team’s strategy, focusing on gaining competition days and not worrying too much about points. He also touched on the differences between one-day tests and stage races, highlighting the benefits of each. Llaneras emphasized that stage races allow teams to develop strategies and riders to gain form, making them exciting for both participants and spectators.
When asked about the potential pressure of having a famous surname in the cycling world, Pol Llaneras said he looks up to his father as a reference and a role model. However, he doesn’t feel that his surname has influenced his career significantly, as it is more recognized within the cycling community than among the general public. Llaneras’ goal is to continue progressing and eventually join a World Tour team.
The event saw various cyclists showcasing their skills, with Remy Rochas taking the lead in the day’s escape and Magnus Cort ultimately claiming the top spot. The competition was fierce, with several riders attempting to break away, but Cort’s superior form and strategy paid off in the end. As the cyclists continue to battle it out, fans can expect more thrilling performances and intense competition in the world of cycling.