NICOLAS ROCHE FINISHED a commendable 13th place in today’s Elite Men’s Time Trial at the world championships in Toscana.

The Team Saxo-Tinkoff rider has had an outstanding season, demonstrating his form with an impressively strong ride in a competitive field.

The gold medal ultimately went to Germany’s Tony Martin, with British hope Bradley Wiggans pipping Fabian Cancellara for silver.

With 79 starters in the Elite Men’s TT, Roche was the 44^th rider to start. The 57.86km course was relatively flat, with time checks at three points en route. The Irishman, who has been in strong form this season, had a particularly strong middle section of the race, which put him inside his pre-race goal of a top 15 finish.

“As Nicolas was going through the check points, he was consistently in the top 3-4 spots; he rode a great time trial; really strong in the middle section,” said Ireland head coach Brian Nugent.

“Nicolas has performed well in the time trial stages of Tours this year, so he decided to spend some time preparing for the worlds. He beat a lot of good time trial specialists out there today.

“The focus is now on the road races at the weekend. Nicolas has four days to recover for Sunday’s road race.”

Elite Men’s Time Trial

Gold Tony Martin (Germany)                                01:05:36:65

Silver Bradley Wiggans (GB)                                    +0:00:46:09

Bronze Fabian Cancellara (Switzerland)                 +0:00:48:34

13^thNicolas Roche (IRELAND)                              +0:03:13:35

Here’s the ‘unfinished business Cork v Clare’ promo to get you psyched for the replay

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