2024-08-01 12:47:17
The time trial and road race were separated by a full week, so Vacek decided to return to the Czech Republic. “Mainly because of the training. It’s not all plain sailing in the Olympic Village either. Or I have to drive forty minutes in heavy traffic outside the city, which would be quite nerve-wracking,” he explained. “So we would rather go home for a few days, calm down and come back now,” he said with a smile before setting off at Prague airport.
The Beroun native is preparing in Sumava, having organized four training sessions. “Three of them are pretty good. I believe I’m well prepared. Hopefully everything goes well.
Photo: Piroschka Van De Wouw, Reuters
Czech cyclist Mathias Vacek on the Paris Olympic time trial track
He will face tougher competition from 89 cyclists in the mass start, but Vasek hopes to improve on his time trial finish of 11th place and attack the elite ten. “I don’t think I’m done yet. I’m doing well and I can fight in the best, best position possible. I still want to focus, I have an important game ahead of me and I will give it my all,” He promised.
As the only Czech in the main car, he will be at a disadvantage. However, without a radio, even a four-man team of Belgians, French, Slovenians, Danes or Brits would gain no additional benefit. “Everything is possible at the Olympics. It’s completely different from team competition.
Additionally, the weather should be more favorable to the cyclists compared to the time trial. “It rained last week, so it wasn’t very good, but it’s the same for everyone. It’s hopefully going to be a perfect 25 degrees, partly cloudy,” Vasek hoped.
Even due to frequent transfers, he did not enjoy the Olympic atmosphere. “But I’ve experienced it, so I’m satisfied. I see our female representation on TV, and that’s good,” he noted. He will remain in Paris until at least Monday, when he will move back to the Czech Republic. Starting from August 17, he will participate in the first Grand Tour event in his career. “I have to be ready for the Vuelta a España, which is of course also important for me,” Vasek realized.
1722518767
#Vasek #compete #medals #happen
