Vlasov moves up to fourth overall after brutal Giro d’Italia stage 6
A tough day in the saddle on stage six of the Giro d’Italia saw Aleksandr Vlasov climb the General Classification rankings to move into fourth overall, 24 seconds behind new race leader Attila Valter.
Astana – Premier Tech’s Russian leader crossed the line in tenth place atop the San Giacomo climb in what was the race’s first summit finish in brutal conditions with cold weather and constant rain making for a difficult day.
“It was a very hard day, especially with the cold weather. I really couldn’t feel my arms or legs so I suffered a lot. On the downhill I didn’t want to push too hard and then on the final climb, I gave everything I had. I had great support from Harold Tejada so I was able to save some energy going into the final kilometres. It was not easy as I didn’t feel anything but I just tried to stay with the best as long as possible. I was able to answer the first attack but the second time Bernal went, I wasn’t able to stay on the wheel so I just held my own rhythm until the finish line. I did my best and in general, I am happy. Now we just keep taking things day by day and see what happens,” Vlasov said.
Gino Mader held on from the breakaway to take the solo victory while behind, the General Classification riders began to attack from the reduced peloton on the final climb. Vlasov, who had Harold Tejadad for support, responded to the first moves and clawed his way back to the front. Although he was wasn’t able to match a second attack within the last kilometre, Vlasov dug deep to limit him time loss on the finish line to cross the line 17 seconds behind a handful of General Classification rivals.
Heading back onto flatter terrain on stage seven, Vlasov now sits in fourth overall, eight seconds off the podium.
Race Profile
Giro d’Italia
Stage 6: Grotte di Frasassi > Ascoli Piceno (San Giacomo) (160km)
Top 3: 1. Gino Mader (Bahrain Victorious), 2. Egan Bernal (INEOS Grenadiers), 3. Dan Martin (Israel Start Up Nation).
Astana – Premier Tech top 3: 10. Aleksandr Vlasov, 30. Harold Tejada, 62. Gorka Izagirre
Photo: Getty Sport