Andre Greipel (HTC-Columbia) sprinted to victory yesterday in the fifth stage of the Presidential Cycling Tour of Turkey that finished in Fethiye.

Stage 5 was the longest race of the tour at 217km from Denizli to Fethiye. But it was also the hardest with the riders climbing to a height of 1,600 metres near Altin Yayla.

A small breakaway group took off early in the race and led through the mountains but they were caught on the long decent down to Kemer.

The riders then powered along to Fethiye, through Calis, up past Migros before turning for the sprint to the town centre.

Andre Greipel (HTC-Columbia) was first over the line securing his third win so far. He was closely followed by Mattia Gavazzi (Colnago-CSF Inox) and Kenny Van Hummel (Skil-Shimano) in a gripping finish.

Thousands of spectators lined the route into Fethiye and along the town centre road to the finishing line outside Garanti Bank in central Fethiye.

A large crowd also gathered in the purpose built enclosure to watch the race live on a large screen TV complete with live English commentary and then the award ceremony.

The live TV coverage on TRT1 was excellent and the images of Oludeniz, Fethiye and the surroundings taken by the two helicopters following the race really showcased the beauty of the area.

The race continues tomorrow with a 194 km stage from Fethiye to Finike. The riders will set off at 12:20 from outside Garanti Bank and there will be plenty of opportunity to soak up the race atmosphere in the lead up to their departure.