French TT champion Sylvain Chavanel had made today's opening time trial of the Criterium du Dauphiné a big objective and so he was disappointed with his 19th place finish. He now tries to keep things into perspective after battling a hard headwind that didn't favour the later starters like himself.

The Critérium du Dauphiné Libéré began with a show of force from Chris Froome (Sky), who won the 10.4 kilometer time trial through the streets of Lyon.  IAM Cycling did not go unnoticed throughout the event, having succeeded in placing three of its riders in the time 20 thanks to Matthias Brändle (10th), Aleksejs Saramotins (15th) and Sylvain Chavanel (19th).  Because of this strong collective performance, the Swiss Pro Continental team sits in 3rd place for the team standings. 

For Michel Thétaz, founder of IAM Cycling and CEO of IAMFUNDS.CH, the results for the stage are consistent with his expectations regarding his time trial specialists. 

“In spite of the changing conditions and a technically demanding course, we achieved our objectives.  There is nothing to be ashamed of when we see the big favorites finishing on top. 

"Now we expect our general classification leaders to be attentive throughout the week which is chocked-full of potential pitfalls.  There will be plenty to do looking at the route this week.” 
 
Having come to this race with a hope of winning the time trial, Sylvain Chavanel was unable to match the best times in the face of a strong wind.  The five-time French time trial champion confessed he was not equal to the best times posted for the day. 

“Obviously I am disappointed, but I can put everything into perspective.  I really did my best against the gusty winds by turning the highest possible gear ratio.  But on the return to the docks, I realized that my efforts were not effective enough.  I think I managed a decent time without losing concentration.  Dealing with external elements like the wind is just part of the game.”