Lawson Craddock (USA) took inspiration from Chloe Dygert-Owen's stunning performance in the elite women's time trial to finish sixth in the men's race at the World Championships.
Dygert-Owen dominated the field in the women's time trial, beating Anna van der Breggen by over a minute and defending champion Annemiek van Fluten by nearly two minutes.
Craddock, who finished fourth in the Vuelta a EspaƱa time trial, finished just 13 seconds off the podium on Wednesday.
"It was brutal, you never know what can happen in a 55km time trial. Everywhere was sore and I think that's what happened today. It was a fun course and very challenging. There were some points where it was difficult to find a rhythm, but in the end we had a worthy winner. I'm pretty happy with how I raced," Craddock said at the finish.
The American's ride came 24 hours after Daigert Owen's dominating victory, and Craddock said his compatriot's hard work had already set a positive mood in the camp.
"The U23 boys and Chloe were incredible," Craddock said.
"They set the bar high for everyone, on every platform. Chloe was truly a phenomenal talent. The public was excited and proud of her efforts and the preparation that went into it. Seeing that inspires me as well."
[14Craddock came into the world championships on the back of a solid run in the Vuelta, but added that missing the Tour de France in July gave her additional motivation. The American had been on the list of Tour contenders but was overlooked in the days leading up to the race. However, he focused on the Vuelta and finished in the top 10.
"It was certainly disappointing to miss the Tour. But the Vuelta is a prestigious race and a tough race. If I can prove myself there, it's almost the same thing."
"I feel confident in my abilities. It's been a really difficult Vuelta this year, but I think I've turned a page in terms of my development. In the end, I raced the way I think I should have raced. I went into the break and really raced. I enjoyed my experience there and I thank the team for giving me the chance."
[22While the 36km time trial in the Vuelta was a test of the conditions in Cradock, the Yorkshire course was 18km longer and a grueling test of the riders' mental and physical resolve. Rohan Dennis (AUS) rode exceptionally well to take the win, but Craddock was more than up to the task. He finished well ahead of Vuelta winner Primos Roglic and UCI Hour record holder Victor Campenaerts.
"The Vuelta time trial was about 55 minutes, so I think this one will be similar, but the extra 10 minutes will make a big difference. We just have to prepare as well as we can," Craddock said.
"The Vuelta is hit or miss in terms of preparation for the World Championships. Luckily I was able to go home right away and spend a relaxing week with my family. I needed a mental reset after the Vuelta. I felt good today and hopefully it will continue like that on Sunday."
Comments