The American was the dominant rider in the 34.7 kilometre individual time trial, as he rose up the overall standings.

Van Garderen, who rides for BMC Racing, finished the course in a time of 40min and 47sec.

He finished seven seconds clear of New Zealand’s Patrick Bevin, with Britain's Tao Geoghegan Hart rounding off the top three at 32 seconds down.

Van Garderen and Geoghegan Hart were among the clear winners in the general classification after the stage.

The stage win helped Van Garderen move into the overall race lead, having gained 1min and 23sec over Colombia's Egan Bernal.

"Today was special motivation," said Van Garderen.

"I had my girls here, I had memories here from five years ago.

"I didn't expect it to go quite this well but I kind of had it in the back of my mind on Gibraltar if I can keep it to within a minute, I can maybe take it today.

"Today was going to be my big power play, and I’m glad I was able to produce one.

"It feels great."

Van Garderen enjoys a 23 seconds cushion over Bernal at the top of the standings, with the Team Sky rider having dropped to second.

Colombia's Daniel Martinez is third overall at 37 seconds, while Geoghegan Hart moved into fourth place.

The British rider is 52 seconds off the race lead.

The International Cycling Union WorldTour race will continue tomorrow with a 176km stage from Stockton to Elk Grove.