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The fifth stage of the Tour of Guangxi was the key stage for the overall classification and did not disappoint. Lennert van Eetvelt was the main favorite to win on the day and although he was put under serious pressure, the Lotto Dstny rider made a valiant attempt to take victory on the steep summit climb.
Jonasrutsch, Stefan Bissegger, Koen Bouwman and former stage winner Waare Vangeluwe formed a small but very strong breakaway group that day, forcing the peloton to set a faster pace than expected. Since this is the only truly hilly stage with a difficult finish, a surprise could lead to a complete GC overhaul.
The group was then caught by a fast-moving peloton at the start of the final climb. The serious moves began with 1.7 kilometers to go when Tim Wellens attacked from the front, a dangerous move for the UAE, while Victor Lafay also followed him. The Frenchman then set off on the final steep kilometer with Lotto Dstny chasing after him.
The favorite to win the stage, Lennert van Eetvelt, was then behind him in the main race, but he still had the best legs when it mattered most. Oscar Onley attacked in the final 400 meters from the finish and his acceleration ensured Lafay was caught, but van Eetvelt managed to follow the attack and then sprinted ahead of the DSM rider to win the stage.
Results provided by FirstCycling.com
