WATCH CHLOE DYGERT’S CRASH

Defending champion Chloe Dygert of the United States crashed out while leading the women’s individual time-trial at the Road World Championships in Imola on Thursday allowing Dutch rider Anna van der Breggen claim her first gold in the event.

Favorite Dygert had been leading the field with the best split time halfway through the 31.7km race only to lose her balance, turning off the road, crashing over a security barrier and into a ditch.

“Dygert was on track to win her second ITT World Championship, but has abandoned the race after her crash over the guard rail. All we know is that she is conscious and talking,” USA Cycling said.

“We are in contact with our coaches and Chloe’s team on the ground in Italy. We will post a report on her condition as soon as we have absolute clear confirmation as to her condition.”