22 Feb 2009

Lepheimer extends lead in California

8:42 am on 22 February 2009

The American Levi Leipheimer has won the sixth stage of cycling's Tour of California, a 24-kilometre individual time trial that stretched his overall lead in the event.

With his victory, by eight seconds over American David Zabriskie, Leipheimer took a big step toward securing his third straight title in the race when it concludes near San Diego.

Astana's Leipheimer stretched his overall lead to 36 seconds over Zabriskie.

Seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong finished 14th in the time trial, one minute 16 seconds behind his Astana teammate Leipheimer.

The New Zealander Jeremy Vennell finished 17th in the stage.