Alexander Kristoff wins RideLondon-Surrey Classic
Last Updated: 30/07/17 9:05pm
Norway's Alexander Kristoff burst clear of the field to win the 183-km RideLondon-Surrey Classic on Sunday.
Kristoff left his rivals trailing with 200m to go on the Mall in London before holding firm in the face of a late charge from Denmark's Magnus Cort Nielsen (Orica-Scott), who finished second.
Australia's Tour de France green jersey winner Michael Matthews (Team Sunweb) finished third for the second consecutive year.
The race was elevated to WorldTour status for 2017, a decision that ensured a strong pace in the countryside south of London.
The field started on Horse Guard's Parade and passed through Hampton Court, Boxhill and Leatherhead before returning to central London along the Thames.
Kristoff had to chase down Quick-Step's Matteo Trentin and Trek-Segafredo's Jasper Stuyven, who both made a breakaway with less than two kilometres left.
Team Sky's Peter Kennaugh had initiated the late dash but Orica-Scott's Daryl Impey, along with Stuyven and Trentin, offered the most sustained challenge.
Impey, however, fell away through Wimbledon Village, before Kristoff nipped in front with 200 metres to go and went on to win a pulsating race.
"We've only had one week of rest since the Tour de France, so I didn't know my shape as I didn't train too much," Kristoff told the BBC.
"I had a great party at home a few days ago and usually I race well after a party, so maybe that's a tactic I should use again."
