Thomas Opts For The Olympics

Last updated : 25 October 2011 By Kev Monks

British rider Geraint Thomas has chosen to ride in the London 2012 Olympics rather than the Tour De France.

The Welshman from Team Sky made the decision based on the fact that an home Olympics is a once in a lifetime event and the Tour De France which is the greatest cycling event in the world is an annual event.

Speaking to BBC Wales, Thomas said that he will ride in the Giro D'Italia and then prepare for the Olympics.

He said: "That'll give me the work from a three-week race but also give me time to adapt back to the track and give myself every chance of making the team.

"The Olympics is the main goal for me so I don't want to jeopardise that in any way."

"Riding Le Tour is a bit more of a gamble. I could be going really well but could also end up on my knees and pretty tired.

"For me this year as in previous years the Olympics is the main goal. I'll still have the Tour de France the year after, it's an annual event so that's one way we're fortunate.

"But home Olympics, it's a once in a lifetime thing."