Bewley bests two man break

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New Zealand track cycling star Sam Bewley reinforced his road prowess by winning stage 3 of the New Zealand Cycle Classic in Manawatu today.

Bewley, a Beijing Olympic medallist, put his track power to good use as he beat off the challenge from breakaway companion Nick Lovegrove (Subway Pro Cycling) in the sprint for the win.

The leading pair along with Brodie Talbot (Expert Team) managed to break free from the peloton in the first 15 kms of today's stage, which was a 155km loop from Palmerston North, run in the reverse direction from Thursday's stage.

They quickly established themselves in a comfortable lead in the cold and wet conditions, remaining clear for a gruelling 140kms.

"I didn't plan on spending 140kms out the front with only one or two other riders, but it just sort of worked out that way. I thought once I was in there I may as well commit to it," said Bewley.

With the leading trio no threat to the yellow jersey, the peloton gave them a free rein, as they established a seven minute lead, before Talbot was dropped after 80kms.

"I knew once we turned in Apiti (after the hills) I knew it was going to be hard in the wind having only two guys. Even with five guys it would have been a big ask.

"Luckily the guys from Drapac team weren't interested in catching us, with Nick and I both 16 minutes down on general classification which definitely worked in our favour.

"The final 30kms into the wind though was the hardest 30kms I've done in my life.

"I have only been training hard for three or four weeks now, so I knew my condition wasn't going to be that great coming into the race. But today I felt strong enough to ride hard all day so I am happy with that."

The early margin proved costly for the peloton who were unable to reel in the leading pair despite a powerful and frantic push into the strong winds, storming across the line only eight seconds behind Bewley.

The stage result did not affect the overall leaders with Australian Darren Lapthorne (Drapac Professional Cycling) retaining the tour lead. He holds a narrow three second advantage over fellow Australian Jay McCarthy (Jayco -AIS).

Tomorrow's penultimate fourth stage is 111km circuit stage from Palmerston North through Bunnythorpe, Awahou and Ashurst.