Vietnamese cyclist surprises with polka dot jersey

Hanoi (VNA) - National team member Tran Nguyen Duy Nhan bagged the polka dot jersey on September 6, becoming the King of Mountain following the fifth stage of the VTV International Cycling Tournament - Ton Hoa Sen Cup.

Nhan of the Military Zone 7 was the first to conquer Ngang Pass, part of the 148km stage from Ha Tinh province to Dong Hoi city of Quang Binh province.

It was the first of eight passes that are part of the tournament.

Nhan’s victory was unexpected as he was not a favourite against veterans such as Loic Desriac, Phan Hoang Thai, Nguyen Tan Hoai and Le Ngoc Son.

Le Van Duan of VUS-HCM City won the stage, finishing first with a time of 3hr 34.29min. He was followed by teammate Le Nguyet Minh and Nhan.

It was Duan’s first stage win, maintaining his position as the best and most rapid cyclist.

“It is a long stage with a hill. I didn’t think I could be part of the leading pack because if was hot and we had to cycle against the wind. But I received strong support from my teammates and I won today," Duan said.

“It is lucky that I could hold both the yellow and green jerseys. I will try my best to maintain the good performance until the end of the tournament,” he said.

In the team ranking, Philippines Navy Insurance Team is on top, followed by Premium Cycling Vinh Long and VUS-HCM City.

Athletes will cycle 158 km this morning from Dong Hoi to Hue city.-VNA