Kreuziger upsets favorites, wins Amstel Gold Race

Roman Kreuziger of the Czech Republic attacked early and held off the favorites Sunday to win the Amstel Gold Race around the hills of the southern

Roman Kreuziger of the Czech Republic attacked early and held off the favorites Sunday to win the Amstel Gold Race around the hills of the southern Netherlands for his first classic victory.

Two-time winner Philippe Gilbert of Belgium, who won the World Championships road race over a similar course last year, powered up the final climb of the steep Cauberg hill. But he could not catch Kreuziger and faded on the long final straight to finish fourth.

Kreuziger finished the 155-mile race in 6 hours, 35 minutes, 21 seconds. Alejandro Valverde of Spain finished second and Simon Gerrans of Australia was third.