Nuyens takes opening stage in Britain; hopes for world's berth

Quick Step-Innergetic rider Nick Nuyens won the opening stage of the Tour of Britain from Glasgow to Castle Douglas yesterday, beating Michael Blaudzun (CSC Team) and Jeremy Hunt (Mr Bookmaker-Sports Tech team) at the final sprint.

"There was a strong side wind," said Nuyens of his second win of the season after Het Volk," so we decided to make our move far from the finish."

Nuyens was part of a 30+-rider breakaway that included his team-mates Davide Bramati, Michael Rogers, and Wilfried Cretskens. With such a strong presence in the break, Quick Step was able to dominate proceedings to set up the finish for Nuyens.

"Bramati and Cretskens were brilliant at keeping the pace during the flat sections and then Rogers made things difficult for our opponents during the up hill section at more or less 10 kilometres from the finish line," said Nuyens. "I knew the final sprint would be perfect for me as it was slightly in ascent. Michael helped me launch myself and put me in the perfect position to win."

With two major victories on his palmarès for this year, Nuyens is looking forward to a strong finish to the season. "I hope this is just the start of a lucky period for me just like this time last year," he aid. "I must admit, I'd love to take part in the World Championships to help Boonen."