Any number of riders could take home the time trial rainbow jersey this week. Amber Neben of the USA has defended her jersey well in a number of events this year, but will come under pressure from all sides in her bid to retain the title. One of the biggest threats will come from Neben’s compatriot Kristin Armstrong; the Olympic champion was disappointed with her fifth place last year – part of the reason for her active role in the road race’s main breakaway – and really wants the jersey she won in 2006 back.
If the Americans don’t take the title then there is a line of Armstrong’s Cervelo TestTeam colleagues who could take the win. Chief amongst these is Austrina champion Christiane Soeder, last year’s silver medallist, who has been almost unbeatable against the clock all year. Emma Pooley, the Olympic silver medallist, has recently been crowned British time trial champion and her trademark solo breaks all year show that she’ll be one to watch.
Last year’s bronze medallist Judith Arndt of Germany could potentially climb up a step or two coming in, as she is, fresh from a season of little racing due to injuries sustained in multiple crashes. The local favourite will be 2004 and 2005 champion Karin Thürig; the Swiss champion has had a relatively light racing season due to competing in IronMan triathlons, but what results there have been – especially those against the clock – indicate that a home win is a distinct possibility.
Armstrong, Neben, Soeder, Arndt, Thürig, Pooley