Michael Woods of Canada crosses the finish line during the Tour de France cycling race in Andorra-la-Vella, Andorra, Sunday, July 11, 2021. Woods finished second Tuesday at the CIC Mont Ventoux Challenge, outkicked by France's Lenny Martinez. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP-Christophe Ena
Canadian rider Michael Woods finished second Tuesday at the CIC Mont Ventoux Challenge, outkicked by France’s Lenny Martinez.
The one-day race was originally scheduled to feature two challenging climbs up Mont Ventoux, but the second ascent was cancelled due to a weather warning. That reduced the distance of the French race to 98.3 kilometres.
With four kilometres to go, Woods made his move up front. Israel-Premier Tech teammate Domenico Pozzovivo managed to join him in the lead group with one kilometre remaining, eventually dropping back with 500 metres left to allow Woods to make one final charge.
But the 36-year-old from Ottawa could not beat the 19-year-old Martinez to the wire. Britain’s Simon Carr was third.
“I’m pleased with my form, but I’m disappointed with the result.” Woods said. “I really thought I had a good shot at winning, but I just didn’t play my cards as well as I could have.
“With the shortened stage and headwind it didn’t really suit me, but I’m pleased that my form is really good. I just need to do some final touches and I’ll be there to win. The teamwork was excellent today, the guys were great, so I wish I could have finished it off a bit better, but I can’t really be too disappointed with second place.”
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This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 13, 2023
