Edvald Boasson Hagen (Team Dimension Data for Qhubeka) took his team’s first win of the 2019 season as he raced to the stage victory and overall race lead on the opening 10.2-kilometre time trial at the Vuelta a Communitat Valenciana.
Boasson Hagen had clocked the fastest time of the day with a 12’55” when he reached the finish in Orihuela, but the Norwegian champion then had to endure a nervous 90 minutes in the hot seat, as the remainder of the field completed the course.
In the end, Boasson Hagen’s effort stood the test of time, securing Team Dimension Data for Qhubeka’s first victory of the 2019 season. Speaking shortly after the stage finished, Boasson Hagen was somewhat pleasantly surprised with the result.
“It is great to get a win again, and so early in the new season too,” said Boasson Hagen. “I was happy with how my ride went and the sensations I felt on our new BMC time trial bike. At first I thought it might end up just being a “good” time, but then I started to get nervous when I was still leading and there were only 10 or so riders left. I am happy with this win, it is a nice way for us and for all our new partners to start the year together.” –
