PLAYAS DE ORIHUELA, Spain (AP) — Australian rider Christopher Sutton edged out the pack to win the second stage of the Spanish Vuelta, while Daniele Bennati took the leader’s jersey from Leopard teammate Jakob Fuglsang.
Under a scorching sun with temperatures reaching 104 degrees, Sutton completed the 109-mile course from La Nucia to Playas de Orihuela in 4 hours, 11 minutes, 41 seconds.
Bennati finished with the same time in the peloton of more than 80 cyclists.
The Italian leads three teammates at the top of the overall standings. Defending champion Vicenzo Nibali of Italy is 4 seconds behind.
Monday’s third stage is a 101-mile ride from Petrer to Totana along Spain’s southeastern coast.
