Cycling: Then there was one for world championships

Head coach Max Vertongen denies that the Commonwealth Games have more prestige for New Zealand cycling than the world championships, despite the scant representation in Denmark next week.

Joanne Kiesanowski will be New Zealand's only representative in Ballerup from September 25 to 29 following further withdrawals announced yesterday.

A knee injury has ruled out Hayden Roulston and the remainder of the men's contingent, Matt Randall and Lee Vertongen.

There were few individual endurance events providing a legitimate medal opportunity to justify the cost of sending the latter two around the world.

Roulston's disappointment follows an injury three weeks ago to points race contender Greg Henderson which, in turn, had meant the scrapping of New Zealand's pursuit team.

Max Vertongen said the two unlucky riders were taking the news in their stride. A tired Randall was undergoing blood testing himself and Lee Vertongen, Max's son, had not had enough training.

Max Vertongen said the run of injuries was unfortunate but the sole New Zealand representation did not reflect a lack of regard for the world championships.

A full New Zealand contingent, including stars Sarah Ulmer and Anthony Peden, competed at this year's Commonwealth Games in Manchester.

Ulmer had decided to rest after peaking for the Games and Peden had scored enough World Cup points only to compete in the sprint next week, not his specialist Keirin event.

"We were all set to go to Denmark originally. It's just the way things have worked out," Vertongen said. "Why go all the way to Denmark and ride one event?

"Also, you have to remember that most of these people work. It's a hell of a task. Someone like Anthony Peden has already been away for the best part of two months this year. It's been a long 12 months for people like him.

"And as for Sarah, I can understand she doesn't want to go, because to peak twice in that event [individual pursuit] is extremely difficult. She's looking to 2004 [the Athens Olympics]."

Roulston suffered pain in his knee during a recent training ride. Tests had shown it would be a risk to compete next week, particularly if it jeopardised his rich two-year contract with top French team Cofidis starting next year.

"We don't want to prevent him from fulfilling his dream next year," Vertongen said.

Kiesanowski, a United States-based road rider, will contest the women's points and scratch events.

- NZPA