Benjamin King (USA) took the white jersey yesterday in Stage 1 of the BMC Cascade Cycling Classic, representing his status as the best young rider in the race. After the dreaded McKenzie Pass Stage, which one rider claimed to be one of the hardest in the U.S., King sits tied for fifth place, fourteen seconds back from leader Marc de Maar’s 2:58:50 finish.
The 116-kilometer Stage One began with a fairly flat start, which became much more difficult with a 30-kilometer climb over McKenzie Pass halfway through the race. King was part of a breakaway that pulled away just after the descent following the infamous climb, accompanied by six other riders. King valiantly battled to stay with the pack for the last ascent up Three Kings Snow Park, finishing with a fast enough time to secure the white jersey.
Team Trek-LIVESTRONG remains in a great position moving forward in the Classic, with teammate Timothy Roe (AUS) finishing 31 seconds behind the yellow jersey. Tomorrow the team tackles the 25.7 kilometer Skyliner’s Time Trial.
Benjamin King (USA)