Püschel wins Trans Andes stage 4

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Chilean rider Javier Püschel won stage 4 of the Trans Andes Challenge and came within a few minutes of moving into the overall lead. Portuguese rider Joao Marinho continues to head the general classification by about three minutes. Tiago Silva from Portugal is in third overall.

American Rebecca Rusch (Specialized) continues to top the women's GC, ahead of Spaniard Mercé Petit.

In the mixed duo team category, the leaders are Americans Mary McConneloug and Michael Broderick (Kenda/Seven/Stan's NoTubes). Canadians Matthew Hadley and Benoit Simard (Nativo) are atop the men's duo category.

The 77km stage was the most demanding and most beautiful one of the race. The peloton rolled out for a neutral start from the Menetúe Thermals at 9:30 am. The race went through the town of Curarrehue before beginning a long climb to the Hualalafquen Lake. This lagoon in a remote corner in the middle of the Andes Mountains is surrounded by Araucarias Pine Trees. Past the lagoon, racers flew downhill to a high suspension bridge. Then they spun back to the finish at Menetúe Hotsprings.

On stage 5 on Friday, racers will cover 75km to Pucón. It will be the last decisive stage in the race.

Full Results for stage 4.  (GC after stage 4 not available.)