Great Work in the Break Keeps Tom Safe

Tom Zirbel maintained his lead in the GC after an unpredictable day of racing. An early break by Tyler Stanfield (Kenda) at 20k into the race was the precursor for the day’s break that led to a stage victory for amateur racer, Andrew Crater (Wheel & Sprocket). Stanfield was soon joined by 7 other riders including BISSELL’s Cody O’Reilly. The group grew to a maximum number of 14 over the course of the day as riders bridged across. One of the riders to successfully bridge was Kirk O’Bee (BISSELL) bringing BISSELL’s representation in the break to 2. All top teams were there which led to some very tactical strategies being played out based on their teammates in the GC. The break seemed to be in good shape until Cyclismo eventually organized the chase to reduce the gap. As the agonizing final 4 circuits neared, only one rider, Chad Gerlach (Amore & Vita) remained in front solo. Attacks out of the main chase group dwindled the numbers in the peloton and the fast pace brought back all of the original break except for 3. Crater outsprinted his break mates for the win with Gerlach coming in 2nd and Mike Northey (Land Rover-Orbea) taking 3rd. The main peloton with the top riders in the GC came in 17 seconds behind. Cody O’Reilly was BISSELL’s highest placed rider of the day with a 7th place finish after his tremendous day of work in the break. The team’s excellent day’s work keeps Tom safely in the lead as they head into Sunday’s final stage.

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Photo by Stephanie Williams		Photo by Stephanie Williams		Photo by Stephanie Williams