June 24/08 10:26 am - Canada Likely to Get Madison Spot at Olympics

Posted by Editor on 06/24/08
 

Canada Likely to Get Madison Spot at Olympics

Canadian Cyclist has learned from a number of sources that Canada will likely be offered a spot for the men's Madison event at the Olympic Games this August. These late openings for nations that have previously not qualified come up at times when other countries do not use their quota.

The big question will be who Canada decides to nominate for the spots. There are, realistically, four riders who could potentially take the two spots: Zach Bell, Ryan Mckenzie, Martin Gilbert and Svein Tuft. In our analysis, Bell is likely a lock on one spot, since he is already racing the Points race, and has been a consistent Madison perform, no matter who his partner is. Ryan Mckenzie is still developing as a rider, and would likely be looked at a s a 2012 rider rather than this Olympics. This leaves the final spot down to either Gilbert or Tuft.

Both are strong contenders. Tuft is already attending the Olympics for the Road squad, and has lots of experience riding with his Symmetrics team mate Bell (including their recent medal performance at the Pan Am Championships). Martin Gilbert is Canada's most experienced Madison rider, with a number of world championships and World Cups under his belt. Whatever the decision, there is a good chance of an appeal.

There is no word at this time as to when the CCA will confirm the Madison spot, or who will comprise the team.