UAE Team Emirates’ rider and former U23 World Champion Matej Mohoric won the Hong Kong Cyclothon on Sunday, successfully defending his 2016 title.

The Slovenian rider crossed the finish line five seconds ahead of Robbie Hucker (IsoWhey Sports SwissWellness team) while teammate Ben Swift came in 11th place.

Commenting on his victory Mohoric said: “UAE Team Emirates was one of two World Tour teams lined up at the starting line. We knew that in order to avoid taking on the burden of having to lead the race, we would have to ensure we made it into the breaks, and that is what we did.

“After 35 km, Swift and I managed to be part of an attack made up of about 20 riders or so and this turned out to be the crucial move we needed in the race. Our group started to break up as the race went on and with about three km to go I launched the winning assault.

“I’m very happy with my victory and this win is a testament to the great support I recieved from my teammates. So I would like to thank everyone! After this race, I’ll be on the starting grid for the Tour of Guangxi trying to make the most of my good form if I am to close my season on a winning streak.”

UAE Team Emirates will compete next in the Tour of Turkey from 10-15 October and the Tour of Guangxi from 19-24 October.

RACE RESULTS

1. Matej Mohoric (UAE Team Emirates) – 2:35:57
2. Robbie Hucker (IsoWhey Sports SwissWellness team) – 00:00:05
3. Yukiya Arashiro (Japan) 00:01:14
11. Ben Swift (UAE Team Emirates) – 00:03:20