Alexander Kristoff (Katusha) went on to win the final stage of the Arctic Race of Norway, just ahead of countryman Thor Hushovd (BMC Racing).
Sam Bennett would cross the line as the third place finisher. Johann van Zyl was again Team MTN-Qhubeka p/b Samsung’s top finisher, coming home in 48th.
The overall classification saw no change at the top of the podium while the minor podium spots underwent a slight reshuffling after a few splits occurred on the tough finishing circuit. Steven Kruijswijk (Belkin) was able to hang on to the front group today and so would walk away with the overall victory. Kristoff would would climb to 2nd while Lars Petter Nordhaug ended 3rd.
While Team MTN-Qhubeka p/b Samsung didn’t have any significant result to speak of in Norway, the team are still able to take a lot away from the race. Johann van Zyl was able to take on a leadership role for his first time in his young career and the young South African was pretty much faultless, only losing a bit time on today’s final stage. Van Zyl would eventually finish in 23rd place, 2 minutes down.
Both Martin Wesemann and Songezo Jim showed some encouraging signs of form as they were able to protect van Zyl deep into most of the stages while Nic Dougall seems to be fitting in well with team after just a few weeks on board. The majority of the team now heads of to France where they will start the Tour du Limousin on Tuesday.
Arctic Tour of Norway (Norway) – (14-17 August/UCI 2.1) Team Lineup
Andreas Stauff (GER)
Johann van Zyl (RSA)
Martin Reimer (GER)
Martin Wesemann (RSA)
Songezo Jim (RSA)
Nicolas Dougall (RSA)
Stage Profiles Overview
Stage 4 – Sunday 17 Aug (165km)
