Mikayla Harvey finished fifth in today’s Gran Premio Ciudad de Ebiar in Spain. Under heavy rain for most of the day, teammate Hannah Barnes was in the main breakaway of the day. Caught coming to the final Arrate climb, the team worked hard to put Mikayla into contention.  A battle of the top climbers followed with Anna van der Breggen (SDW) crossing the line solo, and Harvey one minute behind in fifth place.

“The team plan was to protect me for the final climb and for my teammates to patrol the front for breakaways. The team road incredible out there today and protected me during the whole race. Hannah made the break on the first climb which meant we benefited from sitting in the bunch and not having to chase,” explained Mikayla.

“Leading into the climb Alice (Barnes) did an epic lead out for me, and set me up perfectly into the base of the climb. Everyone rode so well for me all race so I was very motivated on the final climb. My job was only six kilometres long and I was ready to battle!”

“I decided to ride my own pace up the climb as I am lacking power in the quick accelerations. Half way up the climb our group caught the leading three. I went to the front to keep at my own pace. When the next attack went I couldn’t follow but I just kept chugging along at my own tempo. With a bit more work, I hope I can follow the moves for a podium result on finishes like this. However, I am really happy with the result today,” described the New Zealand rider.

Mikayla has decided to not start at the team’s next race, Durango-Durango Emakumeen Saria in two day’s time.

“I want be fresh for Vuelta a Burgos stage race which starts on 20 May and I am extremely motivated for that tour. With three days of recovery I believe I will be in the best form I have had this season, and I will be ready to be the best possible support for Kasia. I can’t wait to put the pressure on and create some moves, especially on the final day which has a similar finish to today!” added Mikayla.