Vorarlberg: Klinger goes, Capelli comes

Tim Klinger of Team Vorarlberg-Corratec has announced his retirement from pro cycling at the age of 24, due to injuries. The team also announced the signing of Andrea Capelli, formerly of Team Miche.

Klinger rode for Team Gerolsteiner in 2007 and 2008, and signed with the Austrian Professional Continental team this season.

Various injuries limited his racing both years. In 2008 he did not start riding until June, and tendon problems in his knee appeared later in the season.

Although he was able to recover from the knee problem and finish the season, the problem appeared again while training this winter. "Despite innumerable doctors' visits, intensive treatment and countless new attempts, I haven't been able to get the problem under control," the German said in statement released Tuesday.

"For this reason I don't see any perspective for my future in cycling, and I want to concentrate on other professional goals," he said. "And it wouldn't be fair to Team Vorarlberg-Corratec, the sponsors and the staff, for me to have another messed-up, injury-filled season."

"After many years of uncompromising hard work for the sport, this decision was extremely difficult," he concluded.

The team also announced the signing of climber Andrea Capelli, 27. "He has proven climbing qualities and fits in well with us," said team manager Thomas Kofler. The team opens its season at the Tour de Langkawi next week.(SW)