Bermuda's Kaden Hopkins got the 74th Tour Cycliste International de la Guadeloupe off to a flying start, clocking the fastest time in the opening individual time trial to take the first leader's jersey.
Representing his team, Uni Sport Lamentinois, Hopkins demonstrated his prowess against the clock, navigating the short but technical 3.6km course in Pointe-à-Pitre with precision and speed.
The opening stage, a 'race of truth' where riders compete alone against the clock, saw Hopkins cross the line with a blistering time of 4 minutes and 7 seconds (4:07).
This impressive performance gives him an early advantage in the general classification, placing him five seconds ahead of second-placed Kévin Le Cunff and ten seconds clear of Marc Palmiste Philgy, who finished in third.
The victory marks a strong start to the prestigious Tour for Hopkins, a cyclist who has made a name for himself in time trials. This is not the first time the Bermudian has found success in Guadeloupe; he has previously won stages and jerseys in races on the island.
Hopkins's ability to perform in these key stages will be a significant asset as he and his team look to defend the yellow jersey over the demanding multi-stage race.
