Cycling: John Degenkolb (Giant-Alpecin) won the Saitama Criterium in Japan. It was the end of an extremely successful season for the Frankfurter.
Degenkolb prevailed in the 57-kilometer race in the sprint of a breakaway group of six. Second was Fumiyuki Beppu (Trek Factory Racing) from Japan. Yellow jersey riding Tour de France winner Chris Froome (Team Sky) was third. Romain Bardet (AG2R), Joaquim Rodriguez (Katusha) and Yukiya Arashiro (Team Europcar) just missed the podium.
The Saitama criteria has been organized by the ASO - the organizer of the Tour de France - since 2013. As well as the main Saitama Criterium race, there is a short individual time trial competition won this year by Japan's Hideto Nakane (Aisan Racing Team) and a points race won by Tour de France stage winner Alexis Vuillermoz (AG2R). Last but not least, the race should promote enthusiasm for the Tour de France through the presence of various stars in the Middle Kingdom.
In addition to winning the main race, John Degenkolb also won the archery program. The winner of Milan - Sanremo and Paris - Roubaix is now saying goodbye to the winter break.
