In the Tour of California’s third stage, Robert Gesink gained a three seconds to help him in the overall classification. He sits fifth overall at 45 seconds after stage three, won in a sprint by Peter Sagan.

Gesink rode the sprint, when a gap opened up. He placed 13th and the team’s other leader George Bennett, just behind the gap, placed 16th in the bunch. Bennnett remains second overall at two seconds behind Rafal Majka.

"There was wind, but not good enough for echelons," said Sports Director Frans Maassen. "No team tried it, but there was always some tension that it could happen."

The 192-kilometre stage to Morro Bay was ideal for a bunch sprint.

"The sprinter teams controlled the race in this longest stage of the Tour of California. The team remained attentive, and George and Robert were well placed in the final. Robert took three seconds because a gap opened up behind him. George was just behind it and placed 16th."

Tomorrow, the Tour of California continues with another chance for sprinters. One day later, the queen's stage to Mount Baldy is on the programme.