National team rider Jutatip Maneephan won the first stage of the Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn's Cup Women's Tour of Thailand yesterday.
The opening stage of the 2020 edition of the country's premier female cycling competition started and finished at Surat Thani's City Pillar Shrine covering a total distance of 82.10km.
Jutatip was in a class of her own and crossed the finish line in 2:09.35 hours.
Supaksorn Nantana was second in 2:09.45 and Chaniporn Butriya came in third with the same time.
Jutatip, who has competed in two Olympics in 2012 and 2016, took the pink jersey for the overall leader in the three-stage tournamnet.
"It is fun to have several clubs taking part in the tournament. It is a good opportunity for me to help share my experience with club riders," said the 32-year-old from Roi Et.
She said she felt a bit rusty after a long break due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
"There are two more days and I will do my best," said Jutatip.
Gen Decha Hemkrasri, president of the Cycling Association of Thailand, said he was satisfied with the athletes' performances. He admitted that the association lacked young riders to replace veteran stars and may have to organise more events as avenue for up-and-coming cyclists.
Today's 98.60km second stage also starts and finishes at Surat Thani's City Pillar Shrine.
The tournament ends tomorrow with the winner receiving the trophy graciously donated by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.
The Women's Tour of Thailand follows the men's version which was won by German rider Nikodemus Holler on Sunday.