We have the best TTers of the world at the start and probably even a better startlist than in a World Championship. Will someone be able to beat the EA Vesuvio duo?
Zakarin sets the first benchmark time in 59’14.
Phinney is the first one to beat him in 58’50.
Mano is even faster in 58’25.
Mullen is always capable of a surprise result, and he proves so by being the fastest for now in 58’17.
The reigning WC Würtz isn’t even in the last group, showing how strong the TT setup of his team is. His time of 57’20 is nearly a minute faster than the previous best.
Among the numerous riders with a pretty similar TT strength Oliveira is among the fastest. He slots in provisional 3rd, 58’’ slower than the best time.
Ocampo is even stronger on paper, but he’s only 5th for now with a gap of 1’21.
But we now see the remaining favourites. Ganna has a really bad day, he’s only 19th for now and loses more than 2 minutes.
Bernal does much better. He is 46’’ behind the leader which is good enough for provisional 2nd.
Zmorka is 3’’ slower than the Colombian.
Dunbar was already able to upset the EA riders quite some times this season. But his times at the splits don’t look promising and he only finishes in provisional 5th, 57’’ slower than the lead.
Wirtgen is the best TTer of the world, at least on paper. He’s tied for the best time at the first split and even 4’’ in front at the second one. In the final sector he gains another second and takes the win!
Congratulations to Wirtgen who wins the duel of the EA riders today!
[PT] Chrono des Herbiers 
