Rabbobank shocker

[rory21]

This is really making me sick

Theo Bos, 20 Apr 2009 (transl.: tedvdw)

The reactions to the crash in the Tour of Turkey are no laughing

matter. On Youtube you can see how I seem to intentionally cause a

crash. Even Lance Armstrong makes it known that I should be suspended

for a long time. A reaction which I fully understand after seeing the

images and hearing the accompanying commentary.

Of course I also watched them myself, over and over. It is difficult

to see in the view from above, it seems as though I pull him off his

bike. However, I am completely boxed in there while being pushed into

the barriers on the left and, as a reflex, the one thing I do is to

make an ultimate attempt trying to keep him away from me. At that

moment the only option, precisely to prevent the crash. I think I then

hit a barrier foot with my front wheel and go crashing down

immediately, together with Impey.

Anyone who knows me well, knows that I would never intentionally

take the risk to cause a crash this way. Why should I: I take myself

out as well. For years I have been a track sprinter at the highest

level. Keirin is notorious for its pushing and pulling, the taking of

risks. But do note: in those circles I am not known as a sprinter who

takes extreme risks. In Japan this even earned me my nickname. It is

not in my character. This is really making me sick.

For my transition from the track to the road I deliberately chose

Rabobank's continental team. To learn the trade out of the limelight. I

am not looking forward to being known for this. Naturally, I also told

my story to Barloworld. I really feel sorry for Impey and have

indicated to the team that I would like to discuss it with him, to tell

my side of things. I have no reason to walk away from him but

understand that he is angry.

I feel like sh*t for having become headline news in this way. As a

sportsman, I want to show that I am a different man. This is bugging

me. I hope that there is more footage. Perhaps those videos can be

viewed side by side and analysed frame by frame. I would give

everything to prove that this was not my fault. It was never my

intention. Not even in the heat of the battle. I will have to convince

everyone that I win my sprints differently. I love this sport. Sport is

on the cutting edge. Fair play is part of that in every way. It is

never worth going beyond that!

 

 

Source:

http://www.podiumcafe.com/2009/4/20/846317/theo-bos-this-is-really-making-me