We all have gotten used to seeing the gigantic figure of Tim Declercq in the Peloton, he has become a very important figure in the Classics. Due to his amazing performance, he was also voted as the World’s Best Domestique for not just one but two years straight. Although this time, the Belgian powerhouse will not be joining his Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl teammates for the opening weekend, after being diagnosed with pericarditis, an inflammation of the heart.
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As you can see above, in an Instagram post, the Belgian Cyclist said that during the Volta ao Algarve, he started feeling the symptoms. As a precautionary measure, he was told time off the bike, he has been doing that, and his condition is far better than before.
Tim Declercq stated:
[I] started the season really well and I felt ready to give my best for the [QuickStep-AlphaVinyl] boys, but a few hours after the [first] stage of Algarve, I felt really bad. We didn’t know immediately what it was but later I was diagnosed with pericarditis.
Pericarditis can turn very serious, if not taken care of. The symptoms are also aggressive, the person experiences chest pain and unusual heart rhythms, whenever you feel something like this it is best to consult your medical professional.
Although Tim Declercq is out of hot waters, he still needs time to fully heal. This time-off needs to be taken seriously if the Belgian does not want long-term effects of Pericarditis. The doctors have advised him to take “A Few Weeks Off The Bike”.
So this means, that the Belgian will just be enjoying the sofa and cheering for his team with a broken heart (Not Literally). We pray that he gets well soon so that we can see him in action again!
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Featured Image Via Instagram/tim_declercq
