March 26, 2005 – A self-admitted disappointing performance for Erin Mirabella (La Habra, Calif.) marked the only action for the U.S. National Team in today’s evening session at the UCI Track Cycling World Championships. The race definitely featured much excitement as Vera Carrara (ITA) upset four-time defending world champion Olga Slyusareva (RUS) by two points, but the only American contender ended the event in 13th place.

Throughout the race, Mirabella seemed unable to make any serious attempts at the sprints or breakaway opportunities. After the race, the 2004 Olympic bronze medalist described a judgment error she felt took her out of contention. “I think I definitely rode the wrong gear,” she explained. “I needed a bigger gear. I was too spun out so when the sprints came and the moves went, I was already at my maximum cadence and had nothing to react with.”

The gear selection prevented Mirabella from racing with her standard approach, “During the first part of the race, it became clear to me that my normal race strategies weren’t going to work,” she commented. “I also hesitated a few times when I should have jumped on things.”

Mirabella has another chance to make a good showing on her home turf of southern California tomorrow in the 3km individual pursuit. Although the points race is her strongest event, several of the world’s top pursuit riders will be absent tomorrow, possibly opening the door for Mirabella to post better results. She made a fourth place effort in the pursuit earlier in the season at the world cup in Los Angeles. “It’s definitely not the better of my two races,” she noted, “but I’m hoping for a good ride.”

Australian Kate Bates filled out the podium with the bronze medal, scoring 21 points.