medal at a major championship when she took bronze in the time trial at the World Bs in Uruguay.

Claude rode at an average speed of 25.08 miles per hour to cover the 18-kilometre course in Montevideo in 26 minutes, 45 seconds, finishing third in a field of 40 riders behind Samoan winner Bianca Netzler and Cuba's Denir Perez.

But before the 38-year-old can savour the medal, she must focus her attention on Sunday's road race, when a top five finish would earn her a place in next year's Sydney Olympics.

Claude, who won the CD&P Grand Prix title two months ago against opponents including professionals, said the medal was reward for her dedication this year.

"All the hard work I have put in over the past nine months has been gearing up for this event -- and I'm ecstatic with the medal,'' she said.

"The time trial is not really my strength, but this was my best ever time. I was faster than in the Grand Prix, and although the course here is flatter, there were some quite strong headwinds.

"Now I want to get an Olympic place from the road race and now I've ridden against the field, I'm feeling very confident.'' Claude's team-mate Julia Hawley placed 13th with a time of 29:36, while in the men's time trial, both Bermuda cyclists placed in the top half.

Geri Mewett finished 13th, completing the 40-kilometre course in 54:51 at an average speed of 27.31 miles per hour, while national time trial champion Kris Hedges was five places further back with a time of 55:42.

The men need a top-seven finish in Sunday's road race in Punta de Este to claim an Olympic place. Hedges and Mewett will be joined in the Bermuda team by Steve Millington, Steve Sterritt and Mike Lee.