Olympics 2012
Moolman struggles in time trial
2012-08-01 15:58
Ashleigh Moolman (Gallo Images)
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London - South African cyclist Ashleigh Moolman had a rough day on the road on Tuesday, finishing 24th in the women's time trial at the Olympic Games.
Moolman, the only SA entrant, completed the course nearly five minutes slower than American Kristin Armstrong who defended her Olympic title in 37 minutes, 34.82 seconds (37:34.82).
Given only a couple of weeks notice of her time trial entry before the London Games, Moolman, relatively inexperienced in the discipline, said afterwards that she had gone out too aggressively, sacrificing power for an aerodynamic position.
"The course has some long drags, which doesn't suit me as well," said Moolman, who was 16th in the women's road race on Sunday.
"I prefer a more technical route where I can power out of the corners."
The diminutive Western Cape cyclist crossed the line in 42:23.57.
"The wind wasn't a factor for me," she said, "but it may have affected the heavier girls."