Cross-country race: Jenny McCauley missed out by the narrowest of margins on her goal of a top-20 place in the women's cross-country Olympic race in Athens yesterday, finishing in 21st position.

The 30-year-old rode solidly during the contest, dealing with the high heat, tough course and demanding technical sections. She was unlucky to crash on the penultimate lap and while the time lost contributed to her being lapped by the eventual winner, Gunn Rita Dahle of Norway, she was given the finishing placing of 21st out of 30 starters.

Dahle had a crash during the race but held on to the finish, despite some mechanical problems with her derailleur. The silver medal went to Canada's Marie-Helene Premont, who crossed the line some 59 seconds after the winner, with Sabine Spitz finishing a minute and a half adrift to net bronze.

Today sees Robin Seymour line out against 49 others in the men's contest. The Wicklow rider is hoping for a strong performance in the seven-lap race, targeting a top-16 finish.

The multiple Irish champion is pleased with the course's power climbs and technical sections and is looking forward to getting his second Olympics under way.