June 10, 2008 – Wind factored into the results on the decisive Stage 2 ITT across Confederation Bridge on Monday. But considering the time trial was took place on a 15km bridge over open water, this wasn’t entirely unexpected. Confederation Bridge is a marvel of modern engineering and bridges the gap between Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick. It has large 4-foot falls on each side which help to shelter the riders from some of the wind, but as was the case last year, as the bridge runs on somewhat of an angle between the mainland and the island and as such the wind is often coming straight on.

Team mechanics took their place at 1km intervals across the bridge with wheels at the ready for riders who might flat and lifeguard boats readied on the water below to respond if a gust of wind should lift a rider off the bridge. Riders lined up to begin the 15km challenge.

The wind was noticeably lighter earlier on and really started to pick up towards the end of the stage. As such early riders had great times. Two such riders were integral parts of the lead out train for Rochelle Gilmore (Aus) Menikini-Selle Italia/Master Color on Stage 1 – Kori Kelley Seehafer and Natalie Bates who took full advantage of this as they rode to first and second respectively.

Seehafer noted after the stage that she was used to finishing behind World TT champ Kristen Armstrong so taking the win was awesome. Third place went to Sally Annis from the NEBC club in New England. Denise Ramsden (Can) Ultralink, who was caught up in the crash on the first stage and subsequently rode her bike with broken handlebars for the remaining 60km wisely chose not to contest the sprint on Sunday. This meant she was an early starter on Monday’s ITT and placed 4th overall and now takes over as the top Canadian on GC.

With her win Seehaver takes over as the GC leader while Gilmore retains her lead in the points category. Tuesday’s stage is a hilly 120km affair from Kensington to North Rustico.