Lars Boom supports Zdenek Stybar’s decision of concentrating on road race
The news of Zdenek Stybar leaving the cyclo-cross to pursue his road race career gained much attention during the past few days.
The cyclist, however, stated that he will not leave cyclo-cross completely. Stybar briefed earlier that he will switch his focus towards the road race and will use cyclo-cross as a preparation race.
The Dutch professional cyclist, Lars Boom, commented on the issue “It’s a good decision for him as he’s a good road rider. It’s a risk though because he’s earning good money in cyclo-cross. He has to look at it as an investment”.
Stybar was amongst the few non-Belgian riders at cyclo-cross and his departure will result in Belgian dominance.
Countering the lack of interest in the off-road category is already a top agenda for UCI’s off-road discipline manager, Peter Van den Abeele.
He recently shared his concerns and pointed out the lack of interest by international cyclists and the sponsors. Peter briefed that cyclo-cross has only 150 cyclists whereas mountain bike has as many as 400 riders.
He cited, “It's big in only two countries - Belgium and the USA - but elsewhere it doesn't move. There should be six World Cup rounds outside of Belgium and two in three but it's almost the other way around".
Abeele was worried about the fact that cyclo-cross is not included in the Olympics, which is the main reason behind the lack of finances.
Stybar has now made road cycling as his chief priority, a decision fully backed by his manager, Wilfried Peeters.
One possible reason behind the decision to stick with one type of racing is Srybar’s dipping performance towards the end of the season.
Wilfried advised Zdenek to choose between the two disciplines as the latter was burdening himself too much by riding in both the categories.
He commented that there are no doubts about Stybar’s capabilities and enthusiasm but he needs to be more realistic.
Stybar is hopeful for the coming season and he will be challenged by some of the most renowned cyclists in road racing. Only time will tell if the 2011 cyclo-cross champion can meet the expectations of his fans and justify his talent during the road race
season.
Tags: