GreenEDGE wins Tirreno-Adriatico Team Time Trial

GreenEDGE earned its first European win in convincing fashion as it stormed to team time trial victory on the opening stage of Tirreno-Adriatico, Italy. Matt Goss led a blur of green and gold across the finish line in Donoratico to pull on the inaugural Magila Azzurra.

"Today was an absolute dream start," said Goss. "It was an amazing team effort. We did everything right from start to finish. The team specifically prepared for this stage, and this definitely paid of today."

Matt Goss wears Leader's Jersey

GreenEDGE covered the 16.9 kilometer course in 18:41, 17 seconds faster than RadioShack-Nissan Trek and Garmin-Barracuda who were separated by fractions of a second in second and third. Sports Director Matt White, who had clearly outlined a stage win today as a goal for GreenEDGE, was elated with the team's performance.

"It was obviously always going to be a big moment for us to take that first win in Europe, and this is an important race," said White. "To beat the best teams in the world is a big feat. To win here is huge. It shows we have a well-rounded team. "

Stuart O'Grady led GreenEDGE down the start ramp in San Vincenzo. With several pre-race favourites out on the road or already across the line, the team knew they were on pace for the win.

"The boys knew coming into the finish that we were way up high on Sky and Garmin," noted White. "They knew they were riding a winning time, and they nailed it."

Cameron Meyer wears White's Jersey

With a stage well-suited for the sprinters tomorrow, it was determined Goss could assume responsibility to get himself across the line ahead of the rest.

"I'm proud to be the first guy crossing the line for team," added Goss. "It's a great feeling to be back on the podium. It's an especially huge honour to stand on the podium at Tirreno with the rest of the team."