[03.10 11:27] It’s been a week since his last race so he’s had time to adjust and there’s absolutely no sign of regret when speaking to Michael Blaudzun: He’s completely comfortable with the fact that his career as a pro rider has come to an end.

“It’s been a weird week that’s for sure. On one hand there’s this strange void because I don’t know what I’ll be doing next, but on the other hand there’s no doubt in my mind that it’s the right decision. I simply don’t feel the same need to compete anymore,” says Blaudzun the week after the World Championships where he ended his career after the time trial.

The feeling of emptiness after the final race can seem overwhelming to some, but Blaudzun has no problems with this particular challenge.

“Nah, it’s not like it came out of the blue or anything like that. I decided last winter already and informed Bjarne of my final decision right before Giro d’Italia, so I’ve had plenty of time to adjust to the idea. But that doesn’t mean I’m not sentimental about it though. During the last three or four weeks I’ve said my goodbyes to so many people, who’ve all been a part of my life for so many years now and whom I might never see again. But I’m comfortable with the thought of a new career as a civilian now,” says Blaudzun with determination in his voice.

“It’s possible I might do something within the world of cycling in the future. For instance I’ve spoken to Herning Cycling Club about helping out next season, but not as a manager or anything else time consuming, because I also want a break from cycling just now. But I’ll definitely still do some training from time to time – it’s in my blood, my entire family has always been into bikes. My dad is 63 now and he still rides his bike a lot. When they call me up in six months time asking if I want to take part in some recreational race or other I wont guarantee that I’ll say no,” laughs Blaudzun and continues:

“I’m also planning on seeing some race next year and say hello to some of the old friends from the team.”

Exactly what Blaudzun will be doing next year is still not decided.

“I’ve talked to a few people but nothing’s definate yet. I used to do office work before becoming a pro rider but I don’t know if that’s useful in any way now,” says the Danish ex-rider.

Another thing, which has made the transition to my new life as a retired bike rider easier, is the fact that so far nothing’s changed really apart from all the goodbyes.

“This time of year I’d be going on my winter break anyway and holidays with my family so nothing’s different really. But before everything always had to be planned around me and that’s not the case this winter. I don’t have to be too worried about gaining a few pounds over the winter and also it’ll be great next year to get to go on a summer vacation like everyone else,” says Blaudzun.

For Danish cycling it may be a symbolic time for Blaudzun to end his career. There’s a brilliant generation of strong, young riders on their way up the system hoping to be make a renaissance for Denmark, while Blaudzun himself was a young rider when Denmark was most successful. But regardless there are still a lot of the team’s Danish fans who will miss Blaudzun.

But there’s good news: Michael will be joining the Team CSC Saxo Bank Official Fan Club’s chat to say a proper goodbye soon. So far the chat is planned for Monday October 13th.