Matthew Gorter edged out Dave Mann to set a new record in the first stage of the Twin Coast Cycle Classic yesterday. Lack of a significant prevailing westerly wind meant the elite cyclists flew across to Dargaville, via Paparoa and Ruawai on the 100km leg. Goulter finished in 2:33:41, beating the previousbest of 2:35:22 set by Roger Gray in 2002. Whangarei's Lee Johnstone finished in third place, one second behind the first two riders, with Andy McNabb and Rick Reed a further second back. Tutukaka rider Ben Evans was the next rider to cross the line, leaving himself well placed to improve on his third overall at last year's race. The tour continues today and heads 84km to Opononi and Gorter must be considered a favourite for the stage.
