CHRISTIE continued to clock in on pace for a USA record averaging under 4:30 / km

By now, KARLSTRÖM and the chase pack accelerated so they were no longer losing ground on MATSUNAGA. The course's turns were less than ideal causing many walkers to either slow down or take them wide as KARLSTRÖM is here. Of note, MATSUNAGA took them even wider.

The sun was just starting to rise, but wise walkers knew staying cool and hydrating early was the key to latter success.

CHRISTIE coming off the turn with the rear chase pack.

KARLSTRÖM had to be considered a favorite, but would he handle the extra distance without breaking down?

He clearly was one who too advantage of the short laps to get more fluids in and on him.

MATSUNAGA in contrast just cruised on by.

Even when facing the sun, he really looked like he was working out.

KARLSTRÖM's pack was 18 deep, clearly in many minds the race had yet to start. So, it appeared with the acception of MATSUNAGA the field was treating this much more like a 50km race than a 20km.

DUNFEE seemed content having the pack directly in front of him.

More of the chase pack.

Wayne SNYMAN

Aleksi OJALA

Veli-Matti PARTANEN

Karl JUNGHANNß

MATSUNAGA starting to lap the field

How long with KARLSTRÖM and the others wait?

MATSUNAGA didn't seem to worry about anyone other than himself.

CHRISTIE continued to impress.

KARLSTRÖM's pack tightened up a bit.'