Stage 8 - 80km - Te Anau-Lumsden:
After yesterdays 165km race to Te Anau, the BISSELL boys were greeted with blue skies and warmer temperatures. The headwind that the team had fought was now a cross wind and promised a very fast stage.
The team of the GC leader rode a rapid tempo to neutralize any attacks leading into the only climb of the stage. A strong attack ripped the field apart leading into the climb and many groups were spread across the road. A lead group of GC favorites including the GC leader formed and rode strongly towards the finish. Jeremy Vennell, Pete Latham and Omer Kem made the chase group and rode as hard as they could to bring the race back together; however, the lead group maintained a small advantage to the finish line. Cody O'Reilly was not able to finish the stage due to an injury but not all was lost as Pete Latham was able to maintain his 5th overall.
Stage 9 - 65km - Winton-Invercargill:
The last stage of the tour promised to be an exciting battle for the overall win. 5 riders including Pete Latham were within striking distance of winning the race. It would take a strong effort from the remaining 3 riders of the BISSELL Pro Cycling Team.
As the intensity of the wind grew, it made for a very difficult conclusion to the tour. The race split less than 20km into this final stage and the favorites raced towards the finish. Pete Latham and Jeremy Vennell were able to make the selection and not lose any time. Omer Kem finished in the chase group. BISSELL finished with 2 riders in the top 10 GC and was 5th in the team classification showing just how difficult a race this was. The Tour of Southland was a tough conclusion to a great season for the BISSELL Pro Cycling Team. Congratulations to the BISSELL riders and staff for a great race and year. |
