Germany's Ina Yoko-Teutenburg (High Road) on her way to winning the Lehigh Valley Classic (Image credit: Jon Devich)
High Road's Ina-Yoko Teutenberg has won the first round of the Commerce Bank Triple Crown – Lehigh Valley Classic, 40.2 kilometres in Pennsylvania. The German went against the odds to win the race without the support of a team.
"I actually was not expecting to win today," stated Teutenberg after the race. "Quite a few strong teams were on the start line and I was really wishing that I had a teammate with me."
Last year, Teutenberg won all three Triple Crown events, including the two criteriums in the lead up to the weekend and the Liberty Classic which takes place on Sunday. However, it was with the help of team-mate Kim Anderson. "The rest of the team is in Canada racing the Tour of Montreal," explained Teutenberg. "They'll be here on Friday in time for Sunday's race. That is the race that we are really focussed on."
The short race was aggressive from the gun with Cervelo Lifeforce starting the attacks. Teutenberg found herself in a break with Kristin Armstrong but Cervelo was not happy with the combination and neutralised the advantage. A later break eventuated with riders from all of the major teams leaving Teutenberg back in the bunch. The gap opened to 35 seconds. With eight laps to go Teutenberg made her move.
"It's a good start to the week," said Teutenberg. "I always have fun during this week of racing. I hope I can feel good on Sunday for the Liberty Classic."
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