UTRECHT, Netherlands (AP) — Rohan Dennis won the first stage of the Tour de France in record speed in the individual time trial on Saturday, while defending Tour champion Vincenzo Nibali gained some precious time on his main rivals. Nibali, who tried to counter the searing heat by warming up with ice cubes strapped to his back, finished 43 seconds behind Dennis in 22nd place. [...] in regard to his main rivals, he was seven seconds ahead of 2013 Tour champ Chris Froome (39th), 15 seconds up on two-time Tour winner Alberto Contador (46th), and 18 seconds ahead of Nairo Quintana (57th). After his ride, Dennis climbed off his bike and watched with a nervous smile from the finish line as his rivals tried and failed to beat him. Cancellara used his slick handling skills to attack the corners, but the heat also took its toll on the Swiss rider, who crossed the finish line gasping for air. Pre-race tests on the Astana rider showed a low cortisol level, which can indicate cortisone doping but is not conclusive proof of doping. Cycling along the Dutch coastline promises to be tricky for riders, with heavy gusts and sprays.