Kristin Armstrong (Twenty 16-Ridebiker) won the Tour of the Gila Tyrone time trial, but a strong headwind prevented her from gaining enough time to threaten the lead of Mara Abbott (Amy D Foundation). Abbott put in one of her best time trials to date, coming just 21 seconds off the reigning Olympic champion.
Armstrong's performance was good enough, however, to move past six riders from stage 2's breakaway back into second overall. But more importantly, Armstrong said her victory shows that she still can best the best in the world, including reigning world time trial champion Linda Villumsen, who finished fourth, 1:21 behind Armstrong.
"Today, like in any time trial in an Olympic year, is very important. There was some great competition here. Lauren Stephens is known to be a great time trialist, and Linda Villumsen - it's great to be able to show that I can be on the top step of the podium against the World Champion. That's a big win for me," Armstrong said.
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The women set out on the out-and-back 26.4km test, heading over two climbs into the wind before turning around with a strong tailwind for the second half. Claire Rose (Podium Ambition) set the fastest early time, but was eclipsed by Stephens, who cried out in agony as she crossed the line for the new fastest time.
The Tibco rider's stint in the hot seat didn't last long, however, as Armstrong came speeding through five minutes later with the winning time of the day.
Armstrong then faced a tense wait as the final riders were due to come into view. World champion Linda Villumsen came in a distant 1:22, followed by Glaesser and Walle. It wasn't long before the red jersey of race leader Abbott came flying though the line, minutes before previous second-placed rider Abigail Mickey.
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