Kenny Van Hummel sprinted to victory in the opening stage of the Four Jours de Dunkerque Tuesday in Dunkerque, France. The Dutchman of Skil-Shimano showed off the form that brought him a win in the Ronde van Overijssel three days ago to overpower Frenchman Sébastien Chavanel (Française des Jeux) and countryman Steven De Jongh (Quick Step).
David Le Lay (Agritubel) and Pieter Vanspeybrouck (Topsport Vlaanderen-Mercator) marked the early portions of the 186.9-kilometre stage with an escape. The duo's move had only 25 seconds with 25 kilometres remaining, leaving the day open to the sprinters.
Tony Gallopin (Auber 93) tried a pre-emptive strike on the sprinters' teams in the final kilometres, but the pace of the main group forced him to retreat.
Van Hummel's win put him in the leader's jersey with five stages remaining. The 26-year-old will defend his lead over the 178.9-kilometre stage tomorrow from Coudekerque-Branche to Arques.(GB)
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