DONEGAL cyclist Philip Deignan came third in a world class field in a powerful display at the gruelling Tour of California.
On Monday, Janier Acevedo of Colombia, racing for Jamis-Hagens Berman won Stage 2 in Palm Springs.
BMC Racing’s Tejay van Garderen was 12 seconds off Acevedo’s pace with Deignan, racing for United Healthcare, in third, just 27 seconds behind the leader.
It was 30+C during the race with a 2km climb described as the hardest on any tour but the 29-year-old Letterkenny man put in a superb effort, leading until 2km from the line.
The field includes 2010 Tour de France champion Andy Schleck, 10 other riders who have won stages in the Tour de France, seven world champions and 11 current national champions.This marks the first time in its eight-year history the race is being run from south to north. It will conclude in Santa Rosa Sunday.
“Taking the Amgen Tour of California from south to north is something we always knew we wanted to do,” said Kristin Bachochin, the race’s executive director.
“We think this will bring a whole new element to the competition for the elite cyclists who participate, not to mention some striking California scenery four our worldwide audience.
“California provides a variety of beautiful yet challenging terrain, helping us achieve our goal of creating a challenging route year after year while showcasing the very best this state has to offer.”
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