LottoNL-Jumbo’s George Bennett and Robert Gesink saved their classification spots through the fourth stage of the Tour of California today. Though the stage to Santa Clarita suited sprinters, the wind caused several gaps in the peloton. The American Evan Huffman won from a breakaway and Rafal Majka stayed the leader. Bennett is second at two seconds and Gesink fifth overall.

"Our boys were in a good position at all times and supported Robert and George well," said Sports Director Grischa Niermann. "It was especially good at the last six kilometres. Due to the high speed and the wind, the peloton split into different groups. George and Robert were in the front at that moment. "

What should have been a sprint stage ended with five men battling for glory.  LottoNL-Jumbo’s men stayed safe behind.

"Five men attacked from the start and there was initially control from the sprinter teams. However, the lead continued to grow and with 70 kilometres to go, the difference was still nine minutes.

“The speed was high when they tried to close the gap. The hilly landscape and the wind made for a hard race. Due to the high speed, the group almost fell apart."

Tomorrow is the queen stage to Mount Baldy. With his win on this stage in 2012, Gesink managed to win the Tour of California overall. Niermann is confident for this stage.

"Tomorrow is D-day. We are good and we are confident that our team leaders will be able to settle the race tomorrow."