Canada realistic about track cycling chances

Associated Press - Beijing
14-08-2008 - 16:00

Dan Proulx says the Canadian track cycling team he manages is in "a development phase." In other words, it's probably not going to win any medals.

Which is a disappointment for the Canadians, who returned from Athens four years ago with their first ever cycling gold _ for Lori-Ann Muenzer in the women's sprint.

But Muenzer has retired, and the three-rider squad the Canadians have brought to Beijing doesn't have an obvious star. Still, Proulx remains hopeful.

"Our best medal hope is probably Gina Grain," he said. "If it's really competitive in the points race, the bunch racing for every point, Gina can beat almost anyone in the world."

The 34-year-0ld Grain is probably competing in her final Olympics. But Proulx has strong hopes in four years' time for 26-year-olds Zach Bell and Martin Gilbert, who ride together in the madison. Bell will also take part in the points race.

"We've also got a young crop of riders waiting in the wings," Proulx said. "We've identified track as an important area of cycling for us to develop in."

Though the track may not be fertile ground for the Canadians, they are far from out of contention for cycling medals. Marie-Helene Premont will be seeking to improve on the mountain biking silver she took in Athens, and that event should also offer a chance to Catharine Pendrel, who finished sixth in the world championships.