Alena Amialiusik today finished second on the final stage of Tour de Yorkshire in Ilkley and snatched third on the general classification. The final stage and overall was won by Megan Guarnier (DLT).

The most significant breakaway of the day formed after Alexis Ryan attacked on the unclassified climb into Harewood. Ryan was joined by a select group on the penultimate climb including the Belarusian rider, Amialiusik. A series of relentless attacks followed but no one was able to gain a substantial gap, ultimately seeing the select group as one at the bottom of the Cow and Calf climb to the summit finish.

“I felt good in the front group and I’m grateful that I had Alexis there with me. She was in every attack and every move and allowed me to save for the final climb. She was on fire!” said Amialiusik after the podium ceremonies.

Ryan sacrificed herself for Amialiusik in the front group. “I told Alena I would give everything until the final climb. We established in the team meeting that Alena was the best rider on that type of finish. I drove the pace and I followed moves in the final 15km. I had some cramping from neuromuscular fatigue but I wanted to give everything for Alena and I think I did that. At the bottom of the climb I don’t remember if I said something to her as she went past. I was cross-eyed by that point,” revealed Ryan.

Amialiusik continued, “I went with the attack of Guarnier and I gave what I had on that climb. I’m really happy with the result. It’s almost 11 months since my crash in OVO Energy Women’s Tour [where I broke my pelvis] last year and it’s been a long time coming back not only to get a result but also to have the sensation that I can be there at the front with the top climbers and go for the victory.”

“The team had worked hard throughout the whole tour and it’s nice to finish on the podium as a reward. I’m now looking forward to the next races, and also to be back in Great Britain for the OVO Energy Women’s Tour next month!” said an elated Amialiusik.

Facebook

Twitter