Australian sprinter Kaden Groves continued his impressive start to the season with his debut WorldTour podium after sprinting to a fantastic third place on stage two of Tirreno-Adriatico.

The 23-year-old finished off a solid team performance in the closing kilometres of the stage as the squad guided the fast finishing Aussie into position to contest the stage in Sovicille.

Team BikeExchange-Jayco safely marshalled Groves over both of the day’s categorised climbs as the last of the breakaway was reeled back in. A late solo attack then went clear, but there was no denying the sprinters as teams battled for position ahead of the tricky final kilometre.

Alex Edmondson was the last rider to swing off, dropping off Groves in prime position amongst his sprint rivals as the finish approached. As the final kick was launched Groves was forced to check up before kicking again and powering across the line in a photo finish for third.

Kaden Groves (3rd):
“I’ve got to thank the guys and the team for giving me the opportunity to sprint today. I’ve been very consistent this year, it’s another podium place today and my first WorldTour podium, so I’m pretty happy with that.
 
I think all the guys can be proud of their performances today and now we can look forward to the rest of the week ahead with some more opportunities to come.”

2022 Tirreno-Adriatico Stage 2 – Results:
1. Tim Merlier 5:25:23
2. Olav Kooij ST
3. Kaden Groves (Team BikeExchange-Jayco) ST

Photo: Getty Sport.