The world of cycling has received this Friday the news of the end of the professional career of Sep Vanmarcke. At 34 years old, the Belgian cyclist from Israel Premier Tech has announced his immediate retirement from competition due to heart problems.
Vanmarcke, one of the best classicists of the last decade and who has been prevented from achieving greater success by luck, was diagnosed with heart anomalies at the recent Belgian Championships and this Friday he announced his withdrawal through social networks with this message on his Instagram account:
“Hello everyone, I have to inform you of some news that I hoped not to give: I have to stop competing immediately for medical reasons.
During the Belgian Championship I had changes in my heart rate. Upon further examination by Dr. Knecht, they discovered scar tissue on my heart. If I continue to compete, this tissue could grow and lead to heart failure in the future. It is a very painful decision to end my career like this suddenly, but there is no other option.”
Cycling came into my life when I was 6 years old. I watched my older brothers and sister compete and became their biggest fan. When I put on a number in 2003, I didn’t think I would turn professional. I have lived this dream for 14 years with ups and downs. I wasn’t super talented, but with dedication and hard work I managed to compete with the best and in the biggest races for years. Also, I got to know people and cultures from all over the world and I was in places I had never heard of.
I would have liked to race at the highest level for several more years and shine in the big races with Israel Premier Tech. It is very sad and painful to announce the end of my career in this way but, at the same time, I am thankful that my problems with heart have been discovered in time. Now I will spend time with my family to rethink everything and think about what I will do in the future. My whole life has revolved around cycling and cycling will always be my passion.
I want to thank my wife, my children, my family, friends, directors, fans, teams, coaches and everyone I have worked with for their years of support, trust and advice.”