August 15, 2004 “” Canadians enjoyed an emotional rollercoaster ride during the 118.8K women’s Olympic road race. Early on, Canadian Lyne Bessette opened a 25-second lead on the peloton. The lead was shortly taken over by Hamilton, Ontario’s Sue Palmer-Komar, who at one point increased her lead by over one minute. While Palmer-Komar struggled alone at the front, Bessette found herself on the pavement with defending Olympic champion Leontien Ziljaard-van Moorsel and did not finish. Riding alone, Palmer-Komar was eventually caught by a chase group of eight riders. In the end, Australia’s Sara Carrigan won gold, followed by Judith Arndt (German) and Olga Sylusareva (Russia) in a sprint to the finish. Palmer-Komar crossed in 11th with fellow Canuck Manon Jutras in 30th. Full story, photos and official results to follow.

Unofficial results
1. Sara Carrigan (Australia), 3:24:24 (34.873 km/h)
2. Judith Arndt (Germany), 0:07
3. Olga Slyusareva (Russia), 0:39
11. Susan Palmer-Komar (Canada)
30. Manon Jutras (Canada)
DNF Lyne Bessette (Canada)