Dutch Kenny Van Hammal of Italian team Androni Giocattoli won Wednesday the first stage of the 2014 Tour of Azerbaijan cycling race here.

The first stage of the race was running 154 kilometers from the Azerbaijan capital of Baku to the third largest city Sumqayit.

In second place was Vitaliy Buts from Kolss cycling team of Ukraine. David Vigano from team Caja Rural of Spain ranked third.

The second stage of the race slated for May 8 is 187 km from Baku to Ismayilli region, and includes three ranked climbs.

The race consists of 5 stages and involves some 150 riders representing 25 teams. The race will pass 7 Azerbaijani regions and end up in the capital on May 11.

Bakudaily.az