Paula Findlay finished a brilliant 25th at the UCI World Cycling Time Trial Championships in Glasgow on Thursday, despite enduring a travel nightmare to get there.
The Canadian middle-distance star made her way to Scotland from the PTO Tour US Open in Milwaukee, where she had finished third just days before.
Travelling on a transatlantic flight from Milwaukee to the United Kingdom, Findlay was without her luggage for over three days and having picked up her bag on the day of the race, had a less than ideal build-up to her debut in a cycling world championship.
Having won the Canadian National Championships in her hometown of Edmonton for the second year in a row, Findlay was 25th overall in Glasgow and second Canadian behind compatriot Olivia Baril, as she averaged 42.9kmph for the 36.2km course.
“I truly loved all of it”
Taking on social media after the race, Findlay shared that whilst being initially disappointed with her result, she added that it was one of her best experiences in her professional racing career.
“25th place at the UCI TT World Championships, a result I’m initially disappointed in, although I had no idea what to expect. I will say that it was one of my most favorite sporting experiences ever. From the professional mechanics, team car, radio, crazy crowds, and riding at the edge of my physical limit for 36km, I truly loved all of it.
“I held my best power ever over the distance, but was bleeding so much time in corners and technical sections. For my 3rd TT ever, I can definitely say that I learned a ton, and genuinely hope I can do more, because I think my improvement curve could be good with some specific position and technical work. These women are very, very good and it was cool to see them up close!
“Thank you Cycling Canada for the opportunity, I expected better of myself but I also gave it all I had on the day, which is all I can really do! Thank you all for the support.”
Next up for Findlay is the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championships, which takes place in Finland in two weeks time. After second last year in St. George, what can the Canadian achieve one year on?
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