1996 Olympic Time Trial - Atlanta

The Heat is on...

Chris decided not to defend his Olympic pursuit title in Atlanta, instead he concentrated on the Time Trial. Setting off fifth last, Boardman blasted away on the first of the four laps, taking a lead of 17 seconds. The humid temperature of Altanta was affecting him though, and he discarded his aerodynamic helmet because he was worried about heatstroke. He overtook Tour de France winner Bjarne Riis, who started 90 seconds ahead, and things were looking good.

But on the second lap, his main rivals started to chip away at his lead. Miguel Indurain of Spain took a slight advantage into the last lap, and extended it over compatriot Abraham Olano. Boardman was pipped by Olano and forced into the bronze-medal spot.

"I overcooked it on the first lap and had to keep more control on the next two laps otherwise I might have been in trouble with heat stroke in these conditions", he said afterwards. "I'm a typical northern European and I just not used to these conditions. The 10 days between the end of the Tour and the race allowed me to recuperate but not acclimatise. "Miguel and Abraham live in this type of weather and they can keep the same pace throughout. I really went for it in the last lap but it was just not enough. "I came here for the gold but I will be content with the bronze - but I can't say I'm too happy about it. "But my thoughts are already turning to Sydney in four year's time. That will be my last Olympics and I won't compromise my build-up for that. If I come third there it will be because of my performance."

Chris Takes A drink after the Time Trial

Chris gets a Bronze, but expected more!

Big Mig Gives the Victory High Five