Oras awesome on stage eight at the Croc

Allan Oras celebrates his stage win ©Crocodile Trophy

Allan Oras showed his strength today with a solo win in the 142 kilometre stage eight of the 2010 Crocodile Trophy. Oras lead an early attack into a strong headwind, but was soon joined by Estonian countryman Jan Kirsipuu. The Tour De France stage winning sprinter chose to help his friend gain an advantage, and rode in the wind.

Although their lead increased to three minutes, Mike Mulkens and Phillip Ludescher rode away from the chase group and bridged to the leading duo across bulldust-covered corrugated roads.

The serenity of group was not sustained though, as Oras’ strength tore the group apart again on a hill, leaving Kirsipuu out the back. Mulkens was next to go, and finally Ludescher experienced the elastic snap. Oras crested the summit after a 30 per cent section alone.

Although the pursuing group increased in pace with more numbers again, Grassy Hill tore them apart and they were unable to reel in Oras, who crossed the line elated in first place in 4:41:24.

“This is the most beautiful view I’ve ever seen and this is the most beautiful win I’ve ever had. I’m loving Australia from the very first stage [of the Crocodile Trophy],” Oras said after his stage win.

Cory Wallace was next across the line, with another podium finish in 4:46:17. Race leader Urs Huber was close behind in third at 4:46:40. Bart Brentjens did not manage to stay with Huber, coming in fourth at 4:47:09.

Abby McLennan continues to dominate her race with the help of her “Rattle ‘n’ Hum’ teammate Brendan, who helped her up the climb despite claiming to be a non-climber.

Wednesdays stage offers little respite for the riders. The route from Cooktown to Ayton totals 124 kilometres, littered with steep climbs that will punish tired legs. With potential for time gaps on such an arduous course, riders still need to be wary of the new final time trial the following day – which holds 38 kilometres of steep climbs.