Huynh Thanh Tung won the first stage of the Return to the Country – An Giang Plant Protection Cup yesterday.

Tung from Military Zone 7 clocked a top speed of 39.116kmh during the 30km race around Long Xuyen City, which he completed in 46 minutes and one second.

Ly Quoc Viet of Long Xuyen and Mai Van Dung of Chau Phu finished second and third, respectively.

Tung also took the green jersey for best sprinter with 31 points.

Today, cyclists will continue on the 59km second stage and 40km third stage.

The seven-day event, which attracted 80 athletes from 17 teams including one from Cambodia, will finish on May 17.

Cyclists will pedal a total distance of 635km through eight provinces and cities.-VNS