Mireia Benito defends Spanish time trial crown

Mireia Benito claimed her second consecutive Spanish National Time Trial title on Friday, completing the 33-kilometre course in 43:20. Benito’s dominant performance saw her finish 15 seconds ahead of Sandra Alonso and 18 seconds clear of multiple National TT champion Mavi Garcรญa.

The race, held in warm and dry conditions, began and ended in the town of Galapagar, west of Madrid. Benito’s victory came on a rugged course featuring a very steep drag through San Lorenzo de El Escorial and two challenging ramps in the closing kilometres.

“The time trial was quite long with some altitude gain of around 400 metres. On the other hand, the course wasn’t very technical and the weather was perfect,” Benito said. “I arrived a few days early and checked the parcours three times, liking it from the start. Together with my coach, we prepared meticulously to be in the best possible condition for the race, and it paid off.”

Benito’s winning margin this year was a stark contrast to her narrow one-second victory in 2023. The trio of podium finishers were well clear of the rest, with fourth-placed Sara Martin finishing 55 seconds down and her Movistar teammate Sheyla Gutiรฉrrez a full minute behind the winner.

“I put in a lot of work in the gym all year and focused on perfecting my position. My coach made sure the bike was in top condition โ€” it felt like flying a rocket. I truly love this discipline and my Specialized bike.”

Despite a fast start and mid-race doubts, Benito managed to control her effort and finish strongly. “At the beginning, I started a bit too hard and had doubts in the middle part, wondering if I could make it. I had to take a breath, stay calm, and I managed to recover just in time to push hard towards the end.”

Benito was elated with her victory, dedicating it to her supporters and family. “I’m super happy to take this title again for many reasons. It’s a reward for all the hard work my coach put in, for my partner and family who always support me fully, and for myself for the effort I put in. Additionally, today is my granddad’s 95th birthday, and this win is a present for him. He’s not in the best health, and I hope this makes him happy as well,” she added.

2024 Spanish National Time Trial Championships Women result

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