Wiggle Honda Pro Cycling endured a challenging stage two at the Mitchelton Bay Cycling Classic in Portarlington, with Rochelle Gilmore being forced to take a lap out with mechanical issues.
Despite re-joining the field, Gilmore retired late in the race under orders from race commissaires.
Taking her second victory on this circuit was Tiffany Cromwell (Orica-AIS), who broke away solo in the early stages of the 45-minute race. Back in the peloton, Cromwell’s Orica-AIS teammates took control of the peloton, allowing her to increase her eventual lead to over half a lap.
Second across the line was Melissa Hoskins (Orica-AIS) with Peta Mullens (Anytime Fitness/Trek) finishing in third. Hoskins now leads the general classification heading in to the final stage tomorrow.
Wiggle Honda Pro Cycling’s guest rider, Jessica Mundy, finished 12th with Emily Collins close behind in 15th and Anna-Bianca Schnitzmeier 18th.
Reflecting on the day’s events post-race, Gilmore said:
“Naturally I am disappointed with today’s result after such a strong day yesterday. I had hoped that my mechanical issues would have warranted a lap out however the commissaire deemed otherwise and I was told to withdraw from the race. You can imagine my frustration after preparing specifically for this event. I can’t wait to line up again tomorrow.”
The Mitchelton Bay Cycling Classic concludes tomorrow with stage 3 in Williamstown.
