Henderson, Bauer prominent in Tour of Britain opener

Two kiwi riders heading to next month’s Commonwealth Games, Greg Henderson and Jack Bauer were prominent in the opening stage of the Tour of Britain today.

Henderson (Team Sky) could not quite celebrate his 34th birthday in complete style, finishing third in the 132km first stage from Rochdale to Blackpool dominated by wet weather.

National road champion Bauer showed up from the start, figuring in the breakaway for his Endura pro team.

The pair will use the tour as their final shakedown for next month’s world championships in Geelong and the Commonwealth Games.

Bauer led a three-strong early break that braved the heavy downpour, opening a buffer of more than five minutes over the first three climbs before Team Sky moved to the front of the peloton to bring back the leaders.

The New Zealander dropped off the pace with the other two riders caught 20kms from the finish in Blackpool.

Henderson manoeuvred his way into a challenging position but had to be content with third behind stage winner Andre Greipel (HTC Colombia) and Manuel Belletti (Colnago-CSF).

“The team did a great job but I couldn't finish it off. I hesitated on the wheel and got jumped,” Henderson said on Twitter.

Stage Two is 161km to Stoke-on-Trent with three category climbs.

Stage One Results, Rochdale to Blackpool, 132km: André Greipel, Team HTC – Columbia, 3:16:48, 1; Manuel Belletti, Colnago – CSF Inox, same time, 2; Greg Henderson, Team Sky, same time, 3.