Winner of the time trial stage in 2011 and again last year, Dave Zabriskie’s goal of fighting for the victory on today’s TT leg of the Tour of California has evaporated due to a big crash he suffered there.
The Garmin Sharp rider was riding the course prior to the start of racing but fell heavily.
His team has confirmed that the crash has unfortunately taken him out of the race, three stages from the end.
“David crashed on course recon, suffering an injury to his left shoulder,” said Garmin-Sharp in a statement. “He is with team medical staff on his way to the hospital for x rays and evaluation, and will not start today.”
Although Zabriskie was having a quiet race and was back in 60th place overall, his abilities against the clock are well documented and the stage was a big focus for him.
He has finished second overall in the race on three occasions, and will be deeply disappointed to leave under these conditions.
The extent of his injury is not yet known.