Ireland's Sam Bennett has won the final stage at the Tour of Turkey to secure the green jersey and cap off an impressive campaign for the Bora-Hansgrohe rider.
Bennett has developed into a strong competitor at this event after winning four stages in Turkey last year, and he continued that run this time around by picking up three victories including the final stage in Istanbul to bring him up to seven wins in total over the last two years.
There was a crash on a tight bend coming into the final stretch in Istanbul, but the 27-year-old Bennett was well ahead of the chasing pack as he steered over the line to victory in a time of 3:36:28.
Fellow Irishman Nicholas Roche finished in 20th place in Istanbul.
Sam Bennett stays clear of the carnage to win the final stage of the Tour of Turkey in Istanbul! @Sammmy_Be #tourofturkey pic.twitter.com/4CeEKqW7Hi
— Eurosport UK (@Eurosport_UK) October 14, 2018
Eduard Prades snatched the overall victory of the Tour after finishing in second place on the final stage, and his placings during the six days of racing.
Speaking to Eurosport after his victory, Bennett said:
"I kept looking back and I had a nice gap. I just kept fighting but I knew on the corners you can only go so quick that I could recover.
"I took my last corner really slow because last year that's what took away my victory [when I crashed]. I wanted to make sure I took it home. I knew I had the gap and I can't really believe I pulled it off but I'm delighted I tried."
"You have to make sure the damage is done once you get over that little kick. It was thankfully enough and I am delighted."
When asked about his strong run of displays at this event, Bennett added:
"I think it's the time of year. I always finish the season really good and I never lose motivation. I'm the kind of guy that has motivation to try and get victory all year long. I think for some guys at this time of year, they're already on holiday mode.
"I just wish the season was another six months long."
