David Zabriskie of the Garmin-Chipotle successfully defended his national time-trial title for the third year in succession and fourth as a professional. The feat is made even more remarkable when condsidering the fact that Zabriskie was laid up with a fractured vertebrae just three months ago. “Coming back from injury, this is really just my third race back,” Zabriskie told USA Cycling. “Cycling is full of ups and downs. I’ve had numerous injuries, so I have to say thanks to all the people who stand behind me.”
Zabriskie won the event with a time of 40 minutes 39.40 seconds over the 33.4-kilometer course. He regulated Tom Zirbel from Bissell to second place by just five seconds to retain the coveted stars-and-stripes jersey. Garmin-Chipotle teammate Christian Vande Velde finished the event in third place, 10 seconds off the pace.
Known as the rider with the “most aerodynamic position in the peloton”, Zabriskie has once again lived up to his reputation in the race of truth.
US Cycling Championships results:
1. David Zabriske (Garmin/Chipotle) 40mins, 39.04secs
2. Tom Zirbel (Bissell) at 5.29 seconds back
3. Christian Vandevelde (Garmin/Chipotle) at 10.27 secs
4. Steve Cozza (Garmin/Chipotle) at 34.75 secs