HA NOI — National cycling team member Le Van Duan won the third stage of the nation's most prestigious cycling tournament, the 24th HCM City Television (HTV) Cup yesterday.

Duan of Sai Gon Plant Protection clocked a top speed of 46.013kmh during the 42km race around the central city of Hue, which he completed in 54 minutes and 24 seconds.

Do Tuan Anh of Domesco Pharmacy Dong Thap and Bui Minh Thuy of ADC-Vinh Long Television finished second and third after disappointing early stages.

Duan retained the green jersey as best sprinter with 40 points, followed by Thuy and Anh.

Dinh Quoc Viet of Vinamit retained the yellow jersey with the best overall time of 4:07:46, followed by Le Van Dong of Can Tho City and Dong Nai's Vo Van Tuan.

Duan's triumph failed to propel his team into the lead, which is occupied by Vinamit after three stages with a combined time of 12:25:09. An Giang Plant Protection, Dong Nai and Can Tho complete the top four.

Today, 72 cyclists from 11 teams will embark on the 109km fourth stage from Hue to Da Nang, crossing Phu Tuong, Phu Gia and Hai Van mountain passes.

The red jersey for the King of the Mountains title is expected to be hotly contested between Duan and teammates Mai Nguyen Hung and Tran Thanh Nhanh, as well as Thuy and his teammates Ho Van Phuc and Trinh Duc Tam.

The event, which is held annually to celebrate the anniversary of national Liberation Day on April 30, covers a distance of 1,800km over 15 stages. — VNS