After a crash during training in Spain, Manuel Beltrán (Discovery Channel) is uncertain to race the upcoming Vuelta a España (August 27-September 18). "Triki" Beltrán as well as three other riders out of a group of ten were run over by a motorcycle near Jean in the South of the country yesterday, Sunday July 31, Spanish Marca reported. The Discovery rider suffered skin burns on his thigh and a swollen elbow as his bike was caught by the motorcycle and dragged further across the tarmac.
"At this moment, I don't know if I'll be able to take part in the Vuelta", the 34 year-old said, although his injuries were confirmed to be only minor at the hospital later. "I'm trying to assess what happened. The risk of crashing is part of the job, but what's important is that I'm in good condition. It's logical that this accident means a setback to my preparation for the Vuelta a España." Beltrán finished the Tour of Spain 2003 in sixth position on GC.
