The New Zealand cycling team is ninth after the opening team time trial in the prestigious Thuringen Rundfahrt in Germany.
The young team, which includes three teenagers, clocked a solid 29m12s on the technical and twisty 24 kilometre circuit at Bleicherode.
Coach Stu Mcdonald says having only ridden together once in training, ninth is a great ride.
Mcdonald says they showed they really wanted to learn and become smoother and faster.
The stage was won by the Australian Jayco-Skins team in 27m 42s with Team
Brandeburg second and Trek Livestrong, including New Zealand's
Jesse Sergent, third.
Tonight's second stage is 148 kilometres with two categorized climbs.
