News for October 10, 1999

Dekker ok with Rabobank

By Tomas Nilsson, cyclingnews.com correspondent

There will be no consequenses for hematocrit-high Erik Dekker from his team Rabobank, according to the team's press spokesman Frank van der Meiden. "A test the day before by our physician showed a value under 50 for Dekker. The message was very sad for us and the team, but we stick to the regulations of the UCI and accept the health protection of 15 days for Dekker. His season is over though," he said.

Dekker does to give an explanation about his high hema-level to Rabobank though. In a covenant, it states that Rabobank does not want to be involved in doping affairs. If they should occur, they can stop their sponsorship. This applies not only for their own team, but also as a sponsor of the Dutch national team.

On Friday all Rabo riders were tested by their own team doctor Leinders, and all riders were under the 50 percent level.

Pantani 2000

Marco "swampy" Pantani [try translating] will make his comeback to the peleton next season. He announced on Saturday morning that he has still problems with his knee, but he's sure he will come back. He has kept his motivation and enthusiasm after the long restperiod. "I will come back, only a little bit older," he said.

Mapei gets Beltran

Mapei-Quick Step have confirmed the signing of Spanish rider Manuel Beltran for next season. They have also signed espoirs: Kevin Hulsmans (Bel/23) and Charles Wegelius (GB/23).

Clinger to Festina?

According to a source at the Worlds, Mercury rider David Clinger is joining Festina next year. It was rumoured previously that he would join Saeco-Cannondale, and then Mercury again. We'll keep you informed...

Giro to Holland

The Giro in 2002 will start in Groningen (Netherlands). It was announced by organiser Carmine Castellano to Harry Snuk (member of the team from Groningen, which has worked for more than two years to get the start of the Giro in the Netherlands).The Giro 2002 will visit several European countries because of the introduction of the Euro, the new European monetary system.

Cyclocross

Harderwijk (Ned) International cyclo-cross

1 Adri van der Poel
2 Sven Nijs                  0.20 
3 Richard Groenendaal        0.25 
4 Mario De Clercq
5 Erwin Vervecken

Astene (Deinze/Bel) cyclo-cross

1 Peter Willemssens
2 Kurt De Roose
3 Rudy Van de Sompele       0.17
4 Bjorn
5 Davy Commeyne
6 Sven Van Thourenhout