At a speed of about 60 kilometers per hour, cyclist Pim Fransen from Andijk clapped the asphalt. The 21-year-old rider of ClubTeam West-Frisia from Enkhuizen rode the French trip race Tour de Deux Sevres in France. The following days he was called ‘the mummy’ by the riders, because he was completely in the context.
How did it happen?
“During a descent, a rider made a pendulum for me. I could no longer avoid it. I was then open from head to toe. It hurt very much. I thrown in some paracetamol and then it went again. I had lived here and wanted to drive myself in the spotlight. So it was really disappointed.”
Why didn’t you get off?
“I hoped it would be better and I would get through. You go all the way to France and then you don’t want to get off after 50 kilometers.”
You also went to the hospital that evening?
“The doctors wanted me not to continue the game. I spent a few hours in the hospital that evening and they didn’t think it looked good. They told me that I couldn’t start. I thought to myself: they are not at the start, so they can’t make me much.”
How did the people around you react?
“They looked crazy that I was at the start every day. I think I forced some respect with them.”
How did you get rid of it?
“I hoped that it would get better every day. Just continue and bite your teeth. There have been some strips of paracetamol. It certainly didn’t happen automatically.”
Where are you bothered?
“My entire right side is open. While sleeping and strange movements I felt it. Taking off clothes and showering is still painful.”
What did they think of it?
“My parents and sisters were shocked. They wondered what I was doing, but they also thought it was great that I finally finished the four -day game.”
Text continues under video
You still got a price?
“Yes, for the most fighting rider. That was a nice reward for those few days.”
Is there something nice in return?
“I received a wine package. I gave it to a Belgian team leader. He helped me during the game. With the car he brought me back a few times when I was unloaded.”
And now, when do you get back on the bike?
“I think I’ll already cycle a bit tomorrow. I already have another competition next week.”