by Dave Delgado
Guam - Guam's cycling and triathlon standout Chiyo Lombard competed in the UCI World Cycling Tour recently held in Belgium put her skills to the test against some of best world amateur cyclists vying for the world title.
Through a series of qualification events held throughout the year in three different continents, cyclists could qualify to compete in the World Championships. Lombard qualified in Perth Australia for both the 12 mile individual time trial event and the 70 miles circuit road race held over two days in and around Stavelot Belgium with nearly 600 racers representing 24 countries
competing.
The time trial route challenged 189 competitors with flat sections that suited riders who excel in speed and power before venturing on the smaller roads and classic Belgium climbs and cobbled roads made more demanding by misty conditions and slick roads. With a time of 36 minutes, 36 seconds, Lombard earned a third-place podium finish and a coveted bronze medal in her division. "I am ecstatic with being on the podium!" beamed Lombard.
In the road race event, a very difficult course that included challenging climbs used in the pro tour spring classics and Tour De France cycling races including the legendary Cote de Stockeu awaited the 584 road race competitors. Lombard split the field of 50 highly competitive women riders with a respectable 25th overall finish. "The level of riding was intense. I am happy with my result given the caliber of women cyclists in the field and, more importantly, with the
experience gained." stated Lombard.
Joseph Husselin contributed to this report
