Cycling World Championships: Irish riders Martin Munroe and Ciarán Kelly finished 50th and 51st, respectively, in the junior men's time trial in Bardolino, Lake Garda, Italy, yesterday.
The first-year juniors were competing for the first time at this level, both finishing two minutes and 44 seconds adrift of the winning time over the 24 kilometre distance.
German rider Patrick Gretsch went into the race aiming for a top-10 placing but performed way above his expectations in taking gold. His time of 30.29.37 saw him finish over 15 seconds clear of Roman Kreuziger (Czech Republic), and his team-mate Stefan Schäfer.
While the Irish riders were in the second half of the field, team manager Frank Campbell said he was satisfied with their performances.
"It is the first time for both at this level so it is quite a step up for them," he said.
"I'm quite satisfied with how they did, as they should do quite well next year - they are first-year juniors so will come back stronger and more experienced next time round.
"I think Ciarán in particular was affected by nerves today, he feels he could have gone 20 or 30 seconds quicker as he missed the correct line going into some of the corners during the time trial. It is all a learning experience for them."
In the day's other event, Swiss rider Karin Theurig dominated the elite women's time trial to finish 51 seconds clear of Germany's Judith Arndt and a further five up on Russia's Zoulfia Zabirova. Defending champion Joane Somarriba of Spain was fourth.
Theurig, who was third in the Olympics, said: "It is hard to decide which medal I value more, the gold today or the bronze in Athens. Athens will always be special as it was the Olympics, but to get the win here is really nice. I am sure I won't be able to sleep tonight, as I will be too excited when this all starts to sink in."
Theurig is aiming to take part in the Ironman race in Hawaii next year. She is considering taking part in a similar race next month to secure her slot.
"It might seem crazy to do the race next month after the season but it will make sure of my place if I do well. Doing the Hawaii Ironman is a major goal of mine for next year," she said.
The climax of the time-trial section of the world road championships takes place today with the elite men's race. Michael Rogers was awarded the 2003 title after last year's winner, David Millar, admitted to using EPO. The Australian is aiming for a big ride.
"I got the title last year but it was months down the line. I missed out on the whole experience of being awarded the rainbow jersey on the day, so that is a regret. Ever since the Olympics I have been thinking only of winning this race," he said.
Ireland's David McCann and David O'Loughlin will line out against many of the world's top professionals in the 46.75 kilometre test. Campbell feels both are capable of a top-20 place, a considerable achievement.
