Solid Team Effort by MTN-Qhubeka in GP du Canton

The GP du Canton in Gippingen came down to a sprint from a select group of riders, just as expected. The fastest rider on the day would prove to be Simon Geschke (Giant-Shimano). The German was able to beat Silvain Dillier (BMC Racing) and Jerome Baugnies (Wanty Groupe Gobert) into the minor podium postions. Team MTN-Qhubeka p/b Samsung had Sergio Pardilla finish with the front group, crossing the line 20th.

The stage was characterised by a 3 man breakaway which included Roger Kluge (IAM Cycling), Gianfranco Zilioli (Androni Giocattoli) and Mirco Saggioriato (Switzerland). The trio were let out on a long leash of just on 10 minutes before Team MTN-Qhubeka p/b Samsung assumed responsibility for the chase, gradually reeling the escapees back in with a little help arriving from Orica-Greenedge later on too.

With 2 laps to go, the race lit up with numerous attacks that resulted in the original leaders being caught. In the end a select group of around 25 riders were in contention for the race victory. Team MTN-Qhubeka p/b Samsung rode well to protect their designated leaders, putting them in a good postion as the racing heated up. Jens Zemke explains, in detail, how exactly the team got on in his report below.