Alexey Lutsenko (L) and Yevgeniy Fedorov of Kazakhstan celebrate winning the men's road cycling at the Hangzhou Asian Games on Oct. 5, 2023. (Xinhua/Hu Huhu)
Kazak cyclists Yevgeniy Fedorov and Alexey Lutsenko supported each other during the race and achieved a 1-2 finish in the Asiad men's road cycling.
HANGZHOU, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Road cycling competition of the Hangzhou Asian Games came to a thrilling conclusion on Thursday as Kazak cyclists Yevgeniy Fedorov and Alexey Lutsenko had a 1-2 finish in the men's road race.
The race covered a challenging distance of 207.7 kilometers, featuring 60 athletes from 19 countries and regions, who navigated hilly terrains and crossing water bodies.
At the 56-kilometer mark, Fedorov caught up with Lutsenko, and the two cyclists alternated their leading positions. In the last 10 kilometers, other competitors began to intensify their pursuit, resulting in a frequent exchange of positions.
Alexey Lutsenko (L) and Yevgeniy Fedorov compete in the race. (Xinhua/Hu Huhu)
Fedorov crossed the finish line with four hours, 25 minutes and 29 seconds. Lutsenko secured the silver medal, while Mongolia's Jambaltsamts Sainbayar earned the bronze.
The 31-year-old Lutsenko got his second road cycling medal at the Hangzhou Asiad, after having previously won the individual time trial gold on Tuesday. He openly admitted that there was no competition between him and Fedorov.
"The most important thing is to win this precious gold medal for our country," Lutsenko said.
Fedorov also expressed his appreciation for the team's efforts after the race, saying, "I want to express my gratitude to Alexey. He played a crucial role in helping me secure the gold medal." ■
