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Geraint Thomas produced a stunning display to claim his first National Time Trial title in Northumberland.
The Cardiff-born rider proved he is right in form for the Tour de France as he followed up his victory at the recent Criterium du Dauphine.
Thomas clocked 48 minutes 54.78 seconds to win by 37 seconds from his closest challenger Harry Tanfield (Canyon Eisberg) who claimed silver in a time of 49:31:94.
Five-time TT champion Alex Dowsett (Katusha-Alpecin) finished third after crossing the line in 49:48:80.
Thomas said: “It was great. Obviously winning the Dauphine was a big boost, and I’ve done a big bit of training since so to come here and win the Nationals for the first time is really encouraging.
“I rarely get to race in the UK or do a one-off time trial either, so I’m really happy.
“I was confident but I didn’t know what to expect. As I say I rarely do a one-off TT, it’s always part of a stage race where you’ve got tired legs and things.
“Obviously Tanfield has been riding well this year and I’ve been watching him, and Dowsett it’s what he does. TT’ing in the UK is a strong discipline anyway, so to come and win is super nice.
“I won the road race a few years ago now back in 2010, so to add the TT to it is really nice.”
Thomas will be co-leader for Team Sky with reigning five-time champ Chris Froome when the Tour de France starts on July 7.
The 32-year-old became the first Welshman to wear the Yellow Jersey last year after winning the opening prologue in Dusseldorf and led the race for several days before a crash eventually ended his hopes.
