Swiss champion Mauro Schmid came close to victory on stage 12 of the Vuelta a España. He finished 4th, 23″ behind Spanish winner Pablo Castrillo, who won solo.
Schmid was part of a group of 10 escapees that fought for victory on the final climb to Manzenada at the end of the 137.5km. He tried to go off alone in pursuit of Castrillo, but was caught 4km from the summit.
This first professional success of Pablo Castrillo (23 years old) was full of emotion. He dedicated it to Manolo Azcana, founder of the Kern Pharma team who died during the night at the age of 71.
Status quo at the top of the general classification
The winner preceded the Briton Max Poole by 8″, while the Spaniard Marc Soler finished 3rd at 16″. The peloton with all the favorites crossed the line 6’29 behind the leader. The general classification has therefore not undergone any change, the Australian Ben O’Connor remains holder of the red jersey of leader. He has a lead of 3’16 over the Slovenian Primoz Roglic, triple winner of the Vuelta.
On Friday, the 13th stage will connect Lugo to Puerto de Ancares (176 km). After 2 2nd category passes, the final climb, classified in 1st category, should allow the favorites to explain themselves.
ats/pza
