Ayuso takes first professional podium in Ordizia

Juan Ayuso confirmed his smooth transition to the pro-ranks with an impressive 2nd place in the Klasika Ordizia (1.1) in the Basque Country today.

The 18 year old benefitted from some strong teamwork by his UAE Team Emirates squad who controlled the race for much of the 165.7km course.

The Spaniard moved clear in an elite six-man group on the final ascent of the Alto de Abaltzisketa which crested with 8km to the line.

In the final sprint Ayuso took the wheel of Luis Leon Sanchez (Astana-Premier-Tech) who just held off to take the win, with Roger Adria (Kern Pharma) coming home in 3rd.

Ayuso: “I’m pleased with how it went, the team did great work all day to get me to the last climb in a good position to attack. I would have liked to have won to repay the good work. We came here looking for the win but Sanchez was just that bit stronger in the end so well done to him.

Next week I’ll do Clasica San Sebastian which will be my first World Tour race which I’m really excited about.”

Results
1.Luis Leon Sanchez (Astana-Premier Tech) 3’51’30
2. Juan Ayuso (UAE Team Emirates) s.t
3.Roger Adria (Kern Pharma) +1’’