2 Jun 2014

Colombian Quintana wins Giro at first attempt

4:27 pm on 2 June 2014

Nairo Quintana took victory in cycling's Giro d'Italia in commanding style at his first attempt, becoming the second Colombian to win a grand tour.

The Movistar rider, who finished second overall in the Tour de France last year, built his success in the mountain stages.

The 24-year-old finished two minutes 58 seconds ahead of compatriot Rigoberto Uran to become only the second rider from Colombia to win a grand tour after Luis Herrera won the Tour of Spain in 1987.

Italian Fabio Aru took third place, 4:04 off the pace, according to provisional results.

The final stage, a 172-kilometre ride from Gemona del Friuli, was won by Slovenian Luka Mezgec but he was unable to prevent France's Nacer Bouhanni, fourth on the day, claiming the red jersey for the best sprinter.

It was a great Giro for Colombia with Julian Arredondo claiming the blue jersey for the mountain classification.