Paris Olympics 2024: Grace Brown claims Australia’s first gold medal in Women’s Individual Time Trial

Australia’s Grace Brown has carried the expectation of high medal hopes with ease, flying through the drenched Parisian streets to claim gold in the Women’s Individual Time Trial.

In her final Olympics before retiring, Brown was more than 90 seconds faster than every other finisher when crossing the line, barely missing a beat in the 32.4km race through Paris.

However, she faced a nervous wait as world champion and American Chloe Dygert attempted to chase down her time as the final starter.

The American rounded the final turn to huge cheers but was 92 seconds behind the brilliant Australian, forced to settle for the bronze medal.

It was a proud moment for the 32-year-old Australian, crowned an Olympic champion for the first time, embracing the crowd support.

“I really think I did (have the perfect race),” Brown said post-race.

“I had a plan to pace the race to win gold and I was able to execute my plan, like, pretty much to perfection, if not better, so. Can’t ask for a better day.

“I know that I’ve come here and given it everything, and it’s paid off. I can finish my career really satisfied. So yeah, stoked!

“Can’t ask for a better day. Like, it’s raining, but really, it’s not dampening my spirits.”

She claimed Australia’s first-ever gold in the Time Trial in a time of 39.38.24 as Great Britain’s Anna Henerson finished second 1:31.59 behind.

The pair shared words of excitement as they reflected on their achievements.

On a rainy day in Paris, multiple riders felt the sting of bitumen as the bikes proved tough to handle in the bends.

The track had been considered fairly basic in dry conditions, but the rain added new layers of difficulty.

But Brown made it look very easy, claiming Australia’s first medal of the competition just hours into the opening day.