Viggo Moore takes first IPT Academy win at Alpes Isère Tour

American rider Viggo Moore sprinted to his first victory for the IPT Academy to start this year’s Alpes Isère Tour in style.

Moore won from a seven-man breakaway group that formed approximately 60 kilometers into the 135-kilometer stage that started and finished in Charvieu-Chavagnieux, as the escapees proved to be too strong for the peloton on flat terrain.

He was also first across the line at the stage’s two intermediate sprints, giving him a 16-second advantage on GC in addition to the race’s first yellow jersey.

The 21-year-old says: “I’m really happy with the result and how the team rode. Today is my first win, and we know it’s a good race for me and the team.

“I was able to roll into a move that made it to the line. I snagged the bonus seconds at the sprint for the GC, and then I targeted the last climb – I knew if I could make it over that I could do well in the sprint. I played it smart and I was able to walk away with the win.”

Israeli rider Rotem Tene finished 11th as the peloton crossed the line 34 seconds after Moore. Teammates Moritz Kretschy, Alvaro Garcia, and Luke Valenti also finished in the main group.

“We’ve got a couple of strong guys here for the GC – we’ll keep our options open,” adds Moore.

Tim Elverson, IPT Academy Manager, adds: “We knew a small group could work today and ultimately the GC would be decided on a different day, so there were chances to be taken.

“Viggo found himself in the right move and then rode smartly to protect our GC options and take his chance, which was nice to see. We’re really pleased he finished it so well.”

Thursday’s second stage between Dolomieu and Satolas-et-Bonce looks like one for the sprinters, with the GC expected to come down to a showdown in Sunday’s Queen Stage to La Mure.

Photos: Philip Melchior/Alpes Isère Tour