21 Feb MARK STEWART WINS THE GREEN JERSEY IN THE 3RD STAGE OF THE UAE TOUR
Another successful day for the Team corratec – Vini Fantini, ambassadors of ISB Sport, as Mark Stewart claims the green jersey as the leader of the points classification in this UAE Tour, while also remaining the leader of the intermediate sprints classification.
The holder of the black jersey, who broke away right from the first kilometers of the stage along with another attacker, managed to win the first intermediate sprint before being caught by the peloton due to crosswinds. Despite the high pace in the leading group, the wind, and the energy expended in the previous attack, Mark managed to manage the effort well and find the strength to launch another action, which led him to win also the second sprint and consequently surpass Tim Merlier in the points classification.
The black jersey will be worn by his teammate Marco Murgano, who is currently second in the standings.
“It’s really special to get the green jersey after three stages – said Mark Stewart immediately after the stage – I knew it was possible, but it’s not often that things go the right way. There were some guys interested in the green jersey, and I wasn’t sure they would let me into the breakaway. The initial breakaway was quite easy with me and Silvan Dillier. I took the first points, then the crosswinds came. I had to stay in the front group and fight hard for the second intermediate sprint. For a small team and also for a small rider like me, receiving the green jersey and being able to compete with these high-level riders is a great honor.”