After Sebastian Molano’s solid sprint in Tour of Utah’s opening stage, Edwin Avila of Colombia-Coldeportes showed up strong in the second day of the American race, with a 161 km effort from Tremonton to Ogden. In a finale with no team able to control, and several attacks in the three laps on the 4 km final circuit, Avila managed to finish fifth in the sprint behind winner Jure Kocjan (Smart&Stop), who saw off Robin Carpenter (Hincapie) and Brent Bookwalter (BMC), while overall leader Kiel Reijnen (Unitedhealthcare) came in fourth.

The one from Avila was not the only good indication come from today, Tuesday August 4th. In fact, in a stage that proved way more selective than expected, due to the frantic pace with which the peloton tackled the only ascent of the day, at 30 km to go, the Escarabajos had no less than five of their riders in the main group of 47 athletes that could contest the stage win, showing that the rust for a month without races is well on its way to disappear. Finishing in the main group along with Edwin Avila were Alex Cano, Daniel Martinez, Walter Pedraza and Camilo Castiblanco.

“It was not an easy finale to handle, as no team actually managed to take the reins of the bunch and Edwin did everything he could to contest this win, always riding in the lead positions and replying to the acceleration in first person several times. This might have taken some energy from him but he can’t blame himself for not trying hard enough," Sports Director Valerio Tebaldi told. "The whole team provided a good display: they are doing pretty well in this first race after the break, and I see a positive attitude. Let’s keep our focus, as I think there is room for more and better results to come.”

Tomorrow an important test expects the bunch: 3rd stage, 176 km from Antelope Island to Bountiful, with a final circuit to be repeated two times and featuring a climb that could significantly reduce the numbers in the bunch. Those who wish to run for the overall title will have to keep their eyes open.