Hesjedal claims first Grand Tour victory

Ryder Hesjedal overturned a 31-second deficit in the final day time-trial to win the Giro d'Italia ahead of Joaquim Rodriguez.

The Canadian, who has continued to defy the critics throughout the race, went into the day as the favourite for the title despite his Spanish rival's advantage and didn't disappoint, recording a time of 34 minutes and 15 seconds to finish sixth on the day behind home favourite Marco Pinotti in Milan. He then faced an anxious wait to see if Rodriguez would clock the required time but the Katusha rider finished 47 seconds behind Hesjedal to give the 31-year-old his maiden Grand Tour victory. Belgium's Thomas De Gendt, who won Saturday's stage on the Stelvio, completed the podium ahead of fourth place Michele Scarponi, while 2010 Champion Ivan Basso finished the event fifth in the standings.