Just like on the first day, the second stage of the Tour of Oman (2.Pro, 10-15/02) this Friday ended in a bunch sprint in Sohar. A flat stage connected Naseem Park with the old capital of the sultanate through a parcours of 167 kilometer next to the Arabic Sea and only two riders animated the breakaway of the day.
Belgian rider Tom Devriendt was the appointed sprinter in the selection directed by Valerio Piva and benefited from the exemplary teamwork of his teammates all race long. He finished fifth in the sprint which was won by Mark Cavendish.
On Saturday, an explosive finish awaits the riders in Qurayyat (2.8km at 7%) after a hilly stage of 180 kilometer through the Hajar mountains.
The cohesion in our group plays a crucial role in our performances here in Oman. I want to thank my teammates who made it possible for me to achieve this top five. Kévin Van Melsen ensured a position in the front at an important point with 2 kilometer to go, after which Julius Johansen took over his role until the final kilometer. Just like yesterday, Hugo Page waited for the final 400 meter to launch me, so I could sprint for the victory with some of the best sprinters in the world. We already had the capabilities to achieve a similar result yesterday if only we were not boxed in. The next two days we will focus on supporting Jan Hirt and Rein Taaramäe towards the climbs. After, I want to grab another sprint opportunity in the final stage.
