Danish rider Michael Blaudzun hung up his bike after the world championships time trial, and according to an interview on his now former team CSC-Saxo Bank web site, he's not regretting his decision to end his career. He began as a professional for the Novell/Word Perfect team in 1994 - a squad which went on to become Rabobank the next year. Blaudzun stayed with Rabobank until 1998, when he spent one year with Team Telekom before joining the CSC team and staying put for the rest of his career.
"It's been a weird week that's for sure. On one hand there's this strange void because I don't know what I'll be doing next, but on the other hand there's no doubt in my mind that it's the right decision. I simply don't feel the same need to compete anymore," said Blaudzun.
He made his decision to retire last year, and said he's had time to adjust to the idea. "But that doesn't mean I'm not sentimental about it though. During the last three or four weeks I've said my goodbyes to so many people, who've all been a part of my life for so many years now and whom I might never see again."
What the future holds for Blaudzun is still not decided. "I've talked to a few people but nothing's definite yet. I used to do office work before becoming a pro rider but I don't know if that's useful in any way now," said the Dane.
"It's possible I might do something within the world of cycling in the future. For instance I've spoken to Herning Cycling Club about helping out next season, but not as a manager or anything else time consuming, because I also want a break from cycling just now. But I'll definitely still do some training from time to time – it's in my blood, my entire family has always been into bikes. My dad is 63 now and he still rides his bike a lot. When they call me up in six months time asking if I want to take part in some recreational race or other I wont guarantee that I'll say no," he joked. "I'm also planning on seeing some race next year and say hello to some of the old friends from the team."
Until then, he said he will enjoy his retirement. "I don't have to be too worried about gaining a few pounds over the winter and also it'll be great next year to get to go on a summer vacation like everyone else," says Blaudzun. He will be joining the Team CSC Saxo Bank Official Fan Club's chat at team-csc.com to say a proper goodbye on Monday October 13th.
