Five-time La Ruta winner Lico Ramirez claimed stage two in Costa Rica to close in on overall leader Ben Sonntag.

Ramirez clocked 3:58.19 hours to take seven minutes out of Sonntag, who was second on the stage, with Alex Grant completing the podium.

“I am closer now, I must shorten the distance from the top rider tomorrow,” said Ramirez.  

Grant said: “Our strategy meant staying together and not to run unnecessary risks, the climbs were very steep.”

Sonntag added: “[We have] never confronted these types of ascents and that the worn-out downhill sections made it difficult to try to shorten distance at times.

“It’s no surprise that Lico has won the stage, there is no doubt who’s the favourite. hH’s won La Ruta five times but I am happy to have held on to the jersey.”

In the women’s race, Angela Parra took first place once again in 5:13.58, with Louise Kobin second.  

“The fourth stage is decisive,” said Parra. “It’s mainly on the railroads you need much courage since it’s quite wearing.” 

Stage three covers 78km and climbs towards the Turrialba Volcano at over 9000ft, before descending to the town of Turrialba at 1800ft.