Richard Kalapas began his career with EF Education-Easy Post with a victory in Sunday's Ecuadorian championship road race.

The Olympic champion's winter training was interrupted by a tonsillectomy in December, but he quickly picked up speed in his season debut in Tulcan and held off Jefferson Cepeda (Caja Rural - Seguros RGA) to take his Ecuadorian road racing career He won his first title.

"Today's win gives us a sign that we are working hard and putting in the hard work," Calapaz said. 'It's been the hardest off-season I've ever had, with a lot of complications.' [I had tonsil surgery, so I started everything later. Honestly, I'm really happy. It's really special to be able to wear such a beautiful jersey in front of the world."

Calapaz, accompanied by EF Education-Easy Post teammates Alexander Cepeda and Jonathan Caicedo in the 180km race, quickly dictated the terms of engagement when the World Tour trio split the peloton early in the race.

Caicedo, who had just won his third national time trial title the day before, replaced Calapaz at the front of the race for long shifts, chipping away at the big break. As a result, only Kalapas, teammate Alexander Cepeda, and Jefferson Cepeda remained in contention for the lead.

Calapaz attacked on the last lap, and Jefferson Cepeda put up stiff resistance, but pre-race favorite Calapaz was able to outpace his rivals in the dash to the finish line, and Alexander Cepeda took his second bronze medal in third place, following the time trial.

"Jonathan and Alexander's efforts were really important," said Cepeda. 'We met in the morning right before the start. Just before the start we had a meeting in the morning and we set these goals."

"We had a great time, we had a great time, we had a great time, we had a great time, we had a great time.

"They knew I intended to win, and then we discussed how great it would be if we both made the podium."

Kalapas signed with EF Education Easypost this winter after three seasons with Ineos Grenadiers, and the 29-year-old has made the Tour de France the focus of his season. His full spring schedule has yet to be announced, but he is expected to compete in the Trofeo Liguria on March 1.