Kirchmann, who rides for Team Liv-Plantur and is set to represent her country at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, edged Dutch duo Thalita de Jong and Anna van der Breggen, the Rabo-Liv duo, in the prologue of the event at Gaiarine with a time of 2min 23.38sec.

De Jong was 0.01 seconds slower than Kirchmann, with defending champion Van der Breggen powering home in third place.

American Megan Guarnier of the Boels-Dolmans team took fourth ahead of another Dutchwoman and Rabo-Liv rider in Roxane Knetemann.

The result capped the perfect outing for Kirchmann on Canada Day, an annual celebration marking the birth of the country.

Kirchmann's effort proved too strong for the rest of the field as she began the race, considered one of the most important on the Women's WorldTour, in style.

"I had high expectations going into this race, but I am quite surprised to take this win in the prologue," Kirchmann said.

"Beforehand, we did a recon of the course a few times. 

"Once I was racing I had the corners in my head and I was able to take them really fast. 

"I just gave everything I had and that was enough to take the win, which is fantastic.

“This is a big success for me and the team. 

"For the upcoming stages, we will try and defend the pink jersey for as long as possible. 

"Of course, I will enjoy my day in the pink jersey tomorrow.”

The first full stage takes place tomorrow as the riders embark on a 104 kilometres journey from Gaiarine to San Fior.