Evelyn Stevens smashes women's UCI World Hour Record in Colorado

American Evelyn Stevens has broken the women's UCI World Hour Record by almost 1200m in her attempt at the Colorado Springs Olympic Training Center Velodrome in the USA on Saturday.

The 32-year-old rode to 1098m more than Australian Birdie O'Donnell's total of 46.882km set in Adelaide in late January to record a new milestone of 47.980.

The Boels-Dolmans rider maintained a steady pace as she eyed the record on the concrete track, fading slightly as the attempt came to close, but in the end smashed the standing record to write her name in to the history books.

“It’s not common that you get the chance to set a new World Record," Stevens said. "Could not have been a more perfect day. I just want to celebrate with everyone now!”

UCI president Brian Cookson added: “I would like to congratulate ‘Evie’ on her achievement tonight. Bridie O’Donnell’s record stood for five weeks and we have already seen two attempts this year despite only being in February.

“Two years after the rule change, riders’ interest in the UCI Hour Record has not waned. From Europe to North America via Oceania, one after another the athletes are pitting their strength against our sport’s legendary event."

While Stevens now holds the women's version of the record, Britain's Sir Bradley Wiggins continues to hold the men's with his total of 54.526km from last year, which has yet to be challenged.