Nikias Arndt (GER) has won the third stage of the Arctic Race of Norway after a great lead-out from his Team Argos-Shimano team mates in the final bunch sprint.
Luck was against the team in the past two days but their fortune turned today as Arndt raised his arms in victory at the end of the 201.5km stage to Stokmarknes.
This win is also Arndt’s first professional race win, a clear indication of the level that he is reaching in his development as a rider. „This is absolutely great, the lead-out went perfectly and it was a real team effort from all the guys,“ said coach Jorn Knops (NED) after the stage. „The guys started the lead-out with two kilometres to go and Ramon Sinkeldam (NED) dropped Arndt 200m from the finish in a perfect position. „It’s great to see Arndt take the win here. He has already shown how much he has improved this season, working hard on his sprint and it has paid off today.“ After calming down and fulfilling podium duties, Arndt said: „The guys did a really great lead-out today. We went into it with a plan but the wind wasn’t as expected to we changed tactics and gave it everything. The team were unbelievably strong today. „Also, this is my first professional victory, it feels amazing. Hopefully this first one will lead to more.“