Glenn Kinning is one of three Irish riders taking part in Sunday's World Cup cyclocross event in Belgium. There were fears over whether it was safe to host the event in the wake of last weekend's terrorist attacks in Paris last week as up to 60,000 spectators are expected. (Photo thanks to Toby Watson)
By Brian Canty
Despite safety concerns over the hosting the event in the wake of the terrorist attacks in Paris, this weekend’s World Cup cyclocross event in Koksidje, Belgium will go ahead – with three Irish riders taking part.
Glenn Kinning (elite), David Montgomery (U23) and David Conroy (junior) are all down to start what is expected to be a very tense afternoon, where extra security as well as the military has been called in to police the event.
Advertisement
“We recommend that visitors do not bring any backpacks or bags to avoid queues,” said the town’s major Marc Vanden Bussche.
“After all, everyone will be searched and there are also metal detectors at the entrances.
“With what we know now, the safety is not compromised.
“It is the first time we have organized the competition with such a terrorist threat.
“But after the World Cup three years ago, we worked out a very good and thorough safety plan."
National champion David Montgomery will take on the U23 race in Belgium (Photo: Willem Beerland)
Related News
The action takes place on Sunday where Conroy is first up at 10am followed by Montgomery at 11.10am and Kinning at 3pm.
The presence of a large refugee centre located on a military base adjacent to the course appears to have increased tensions in the area and all major events have been on high alert since last Friday’s attacks.
Kinning said he was a little nervous about what’s in store, the 60,000 people expected to turn up doing little for his butterflies.
“I’m looking forward to it, there’ll be 60,000 people there so just a slight bit of pressure.," he said.
“I got a good workout last weekend in Tymon Park, just had a bit of bad luck when I broke the bike but I’m well rested and had a decent few days training so I’m excited.
“There’s been a few issues with security but we’re staying near the course and I’m sure we’ll be fine.
“We’ll get there in good time and won’t leave anything to chance so hopefully give a good account of ourselves.”
Topics
