Athens 2004   

Leontien Zijlaard van Moorsel in TT training

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Since  her crash in the women's road race on Sunday, there has been speculation about the extent of the injuries sustained by Dutch multi-Olympic Champion, Leontien Zijlaard van Moorsel. She crashed out of the road race as defending champion and will be aiming to the start the time trial on Wednesday, where she is also defending champion. 

van Moorsel was riding well at the time of the incident on Sunday - seemingly working for compatriot Mirjam Melchers, perhaps the plan had been to hand over the crown to Melchers. Since late last year, van Moorsel has been publicly reiterating her desire to concentrate upon defending her track pursuit 3000m title. Whilst in Melbourne for the World Championships in May, she commented upon her failure to reach the finals as a pity, but that she would rather an Athens gold than World gold as she heads towards retirement.

Whilst she was clearly stunned at the time and indeed, had to be lifted to the side of the road after the crash which she caused, van Moorsel has not been reported as suffering from any major injuries. van Moorsel was taken away from the road race circuit by ambulance, but after checks, no broken bones were identified. 

The injuries sustained are reported to be  a headache, serious bruising to the hips and hamstring pains. 

Whilst van Moorsel did not train on Monday, she is planning to take part in the open training session on the course on Tuesday.

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