BENAULIM: Benaulim based cyclist Russell Bell won the UCI World Series Tour of Bintan in Indonesia recently.
Russell, who represents Spectrum Racing, Bengaluru emerged first in this Masters category of this three-day, Asia Premier race, thereby qualifying for the UCI World Championships to be held in Poland in August-end.
Russell clocked an impressive 29:20 minutes in the 17 kms, stage one, time trials, which was deceptively tough with a lumpy middle section earning the prestigious, Yellow Jersey.
He emerged even stronger in the 140 km, stage two road race which saw 1270 metres of climbing in brutal conditions with thunder storms and lighting.
Russell survived the 25 crashes around him to take the first place and increase his lead in the general classification.
While the weather remained unchanged for the third and final stage which comprised a 108km road race with 1070 metres of climbing, Russell finished second and emerged champion because of his twin, first place finishes.
Russell, who is back in Goa said, “I am happy to finish in one piece because descending at racing speeds of 65kmph in those conditions is the stuff of nightmares. I would like to thank my team and my wife Janet for her constant support.” Russel’s wife Janet is a Goan.
