B.C.’s Ryder Hesjedal defends lead in 2012 Giro d’Italia cycling race

Victoria cyclist Ryder Hesjedal continues to lead the overall standings in the 2012 Giro d’Italia after the 166-kilometre ninth stage today (May 14).

Hesjedal, 31, retains the pink leader’s jersey with a nine-second lead over Spain’s Joaquim Rodriguez.

"It was a tough day. I had to buckle down, keep in contact and defend the jersey. I got over the top of the steep part of the climb and so I was okay,” Hesjedal is quoted as saying by the Telegraph.

"It was reported that I'm not here to win the pink jersey but I want to correct that. I came here to give my best. That's my goal. I feel I'm doing that; I'm leading the Giro. I'm just focused on doing my best. We'll see how the rest of the race develops."

The 21-stage Giro d’Italia ends in Milan on May 27.