The third stage at the Tour of Turkey was dominated with many attacks in the final kilometers. BORA – hansgrohe was able to stay in the first group and headed into the finale, where Sam Bennett flew to his third consecutive stage win in the Tour of Turkey and will be again the man in turquoise on tomorrow’s fourth stage.
Today’s stage covered 128,6 km from Fethiye to Marmaris on a course with a second category climb and one intermediate sprint. BORA – hansgrohe started with the leaders jersey and tried once again to defend it. Gregor Mühlberger wanted to go for a good GC result in the upcoming hilly stages.
Like yesterday, an early breakaway of three riders distanced themselves clear from the main field and built an advantage of more than five minutes.
The Peloton took it easy and allowed the breakaway. With 41km remaining the trio still had an advantage of more than two minutes.
30km before the finish, the peloton, with BORA – hansgrohe in the front, increased the pace. The breakaway was still in front, with a one-minute gap, but with 20km remaining the break was caught. An attack of one rider created excitement on the final kilometers.
The whole BORA – hansgrohe team stayed together in the main group and tried to catch the escapee. 10km before the finish the race was back together. Shortly before the finish, the race had a short climb but in the descent the peloton fell apart with BORA – hansgrohe in the first group.
The race headed into the city of Marmaris; Sam Bennett was in good position and his teammates dominated. Bennett took the wheel of his teammates and rode to his third consecutive stage win.
Enrico Poitschke said, “We had in our mind, that the final climb isn’t too steep and that we can try it again. Before the finale, we stayed in the peloton and started to increase the pace as the breakaway had 5 minutes. In the finale, we waited and made the final move; the boys did again great teamwork. The hat trick is just impressive. Today the guys deserve a glass of Terre di Ger prosecco. Tomorrow will be a summit finish, we will see how the stage will be.”
Race leader Sam Bennett was more than happy after his third stage win. “When the group split, I had the support of 3 of the guys again. It was a technical finish but I came out of the final bend in perfect position. Delighted with a third victory for the team, the sponsors and to reward the guys for their amazing work.”
