By David Gold

Tony_Martin_22-09-11September 22 - German Tony Martin stormed to gold to justify his status as the pre-race favourite in the cycling time trial, finishing in 53min 43.85sec, more than 75 seconds ahead of Britain's Bradley Wiggins at the Road World Championships yesterday in Copenhagen.


His pace stunned his rivals and the gold never looked in doubt, as he added to his time trial successes at the Tour de France and Tour of Spain already this year.

Having set best times at every time check, Martin was ecstatic with his win after the race, saying: "It's amazing for me.

"David Millar [who finished seventh] was one of the favourites and when you pass him, you must have had a good ride.

"That gave me a lot of motivation and morale, it was really helpful."

Judith_Arndt_22-09-11
Martin's first world title in the discipline came a day after his compatriot Judith Arndt (pictured) claimed gold in the women's time trial.

It was a great race too for Wiggins, who overtook Germany's Bert Grabsch and looked set for bronze until Italy's defending champion Fabian Cancellara slipped, allowing him to overtake the man who has won the last four previous titles he has contested.

It was a great reward for three-time Olympic pursuit champion Wiggins, who endured an up and down Tour de France when he broke his collarbone during the race after winning the warm up.

There was disappointment for Millar though, having taken silver last year, as he looked off the pace throughout.

Both Wiggins and Millar will be hoping for glory on Sunday (September 25) when they join Mark Cavendish in the road race, with the latter looking to take advantage of the flat course to become world champion.

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