Hoy has 'fear' of training on roads

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Following a road accident in which a group of Olympic cycling hopefuls were injured, Sir Chris Hoy has admitted he has a healthy 'natural fear' of training on the roads.

Earlier this month five women, including riders from British Cycling's Olympic Academy Programme, were injured when a car pulled out of a junction as they were training in Belgium. All of the women received hospital treatment, while the vehicle's somewhat relieved driver set about making a claim on his car insurance.

The four-time Olympic champion told the Press Association: "It's always in the back of your mind and I think it's quite healthy to have that natural fear, just to be always aware and ride sensibly.

"Whilst you don't necessarily have your destiny in your own hands - you're always at the mercy of other road users - you do have to expect the unexpected."

The riders are recovering but Hannah Mayho, 19, had surgery on her broken left leg and her right arm and wrist were put in a plaster cast.

Lucy Martin, 20, suffered a cracked vertebra while Katie Colclough, 20, suffered concussion. Emma Trott, 20, got a black eye and had her collarbone pinned while Sarah Reynolds, 18, hurt her hand and cut her chin.

Sir Chris was speaking at City Hall where he was promoting London's Sky Ride event on September 5, which attracted some 65,000 people last year.

Streets will be made traffic-free so that cyclists can enjoy a day of bike-based entertainment and explore the capital on two wheels.

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