Neilson Powless has shown his potential in the fourth stage of the Amgen Tour of California. In the 34.7 kilometre long time trial in San José, the 21-year-old American clocked the eighth time, conceding 56 seconds to winner Tejay Van Garderen. 

Because of his strong performance, the team leader of Team LottoNL-Jumbo is now sixteenth in the overall standings. Antwan Tolhoek lost more than three minutes and dropped from the fourth to the thirteenth place in the standings.

 “I was pretty excited and also surprised to be going that fast”, Powless said. “Gibraltar road was pretty upsetting but I tried to stay calm and to focus on what was coming. Yesterday, I was feeling stronger, but before today’s race, I wasn't expecting to go as fast as I did. I’m very happy with this top ten result. Hopefully I can continue to improve, and have another good day for the finish in Lake Tahoe.”

 “Neilson has done a very good time trial here”, Sports Director Merijn Zeeman said. “He already felt a lot better than on Gibraltar road, two days ago. He has moved up significantly in the overall standings, so that gives us opportunities for the stage to Lake Tahoe.” “For Antwan, this flatter time trial was difficult with his low weight”, Zeeman continued. “He gave everything he had, but compared to the time trial specialists he loses a lot of time. However, his shape is very good, so he will do everything he can to get back to the top of the standings.”