The Andalucía Bike Race kicked off yesterday with a tough 34km prologue stage and  José Antonio Hermida and Rudi Van Houts stamped their intentions on the race with convincing wins.

Hermida assured at their arrival that it was a “very funny stage”, where they raced “at a very good rythm.” “There´s a lot of race left , though,” he commented afterwards.

After them, Portuguese Luis Leao Pinto, back after his participation last year, now he is Esteve team and finished in second place. Completing the podium, the other Multivan couple composed by Hannes Genze and Andreas Kugler.

First ladies were Sally Bigham and Milena Landtwing. Milena, beginner at this event, said she enjoyed a lot, but she expects the longer stages. Sally, last year´s winner, said they have “no expectations” and they want to “have fun and enjoy the trails.”

Anna Villar and Pablo Egeda were first in Mixed; while Manuel Rojo and José María Guerrero, in Scott-Royal Bikes were first in Master, the category with more participants in the race.

In this prologue, the peloton raced around Cordoba´s historic centre and they were relaunched as soon as they reached the Ermitas road. Tomorrow´s stage, the first of the large ones, will have 78 kilometers and will start at 10:00 hours from Córdoba´s Government

Thanks to www.sportograf.com for the photos.

More info on the event at www.andaluciabikerace.com