Why do sprint riders start so slowly?
The sprint is all about tactics and manoeuvring your opponent into position before the line. Some like to lead the sprint whilst others like to sit behind and use their opponents’ slipstream. The rider on the front will go slowly at first as he will want to keep an eye on his opponent, meaning looking behind him, so he knows when to react. 2004 Men’s Olympic champion: Ryan Bayley (Aus) 2008 Men’s World champion: Chris Hoy (GBR) World record – 9.772secs, Theo Bos (NED) (WR is for qualifying) British riders: Chris Hoy, Jason Kenny CW Favourites: Chris Hoy will start as the favourite after winning the world title in March, but if Theo Bos can get back to his best he’ll be hard to beat. Also look out for Kevin Sireau and Mickaël Bourgain of France. Back to top>> WOMEN’S SPRINT The women’s sprint is exactly the same as the men’s event, riding the same number of rounds and covering the same distances. Unfortunately for the female sprinters, this is their only chance of gold after the 500m ti
