Cycling News

I have entered the 4th week of the Tour de France...the Post Tour Crits!! During the first 2 weeks straight after the Tour, towns throughout Europe hold Criteriums where professionals from the Tour line up against local riders in circuit races around 2 hours in length. A large percentage of the Tour peloton line up in these crits, with the more popular circuits being in France and Belgium. I have frequented the French towns of Lisieux, Camors and Dijon for the past three years. They put on great events and the crowds that turn up to watch the racing is on par to that of the Tour.

Some riders fit 10-12 criteriums into a 2 week block, however I will be participating in just three this year as the Australian Team has an Olympic Camp this weekend prior to our departure for the Olympic Games next Tuesday. I am really looking forward to catching up with the boys in Varese and mapping out our plan of attack for the Games. This will be my first Olympics so it is also a real thrill to represent Australia in the Green and Gold. Our trip to Beijing will just be a short one as we arrive on the 6th, race on the 9th and return to Europe on the 10th. The Road Race is being held on the 9th of August which is the day after the Opening Ceremony. As a result, we won't be able to attend the Ceremony...apparently there is a lot of standing around so it isn't possible for us roadies this time...I will however have the tele on back in the Village. Until next time..

Simon.