Esteban Chaves was crowned road cycling national champion of Colombia following a spirited contest around Bucaramanga
The 2023 Colombian National Championships took place in Colombia today. The scene was set for an exciting 237-kilometer race that would be contested on a nine-lap mountainous route around Bucaramanga in northern Colombia, near the Venezuelan border that was recently reopened because of political changes in Colombia that led to an improved political climate between the two nations.
The organizers welcomed 132 cyclists, including a range of famous professional road cyclists who have made a tradition of returning to their home country during the winter months to escape the cold weather in Europe, relax in the sun, recharge their batteries, socialize with family and friends, and train in the mountainous terrain.
Colombian cycling fans had travelled up to ten hours to watch their local cycling idols compete and the roads were lined with cheerful spectators who again created the special atmosphere that makes it such a joy to enjoy sporting events in South America.
The race was won by Esteban Chaves. Chaves attacked eight kilometers from the finish and soloed to victory ahead of Daniel Felipe Martinez (Ineos-Grenadiers; former EF Education First rider) who crossed the finish line 32 seconds later, closely tailed by Nairo Quintana (no team). Former UAE Team Emirates and Team Sky rider Sergio Henao finished sixth. Henao will compete for Team Denver Disruptors in 2023. Bora-Hansgrohe rider Sergio Higuita finished 20 th , crossing the line 02:45 after Chaves.
Chaves will proudly wear the […]
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