Two weeks ago, the prognosis for Rabobank's young German talent, Paul Martens, was relatively optimistic. Martens suffered a bad crash at the Dauphine, which resulted in a broken rib, a bruised kidney, and internal bleeding. After an extended stay in a French hospital, Martens was finally released and sent home to Germany. Things didn't look all too bad at that point: four weeks completely off the bike, and then a slow march back to fitness.
Fast forward two weeks, and it's not looking quite so good for Martens.
"I had hoped to begin getting slowly back into training again in a few days, but the doctors found a large hematoma that has formed around the kidney. This must, of course, be resolved, because if it isn't, the wound on the kidney could soften due to the physical effort and tear again."
Now, all Martens can do is wait. His Motto at this point is: "Wait, wait and wait, until the final ok from the doctor comes."
It will be a frustrating delay for the promising rider, especially considering the time of year - the German National Championships are set to unfold without his presence. "Of course it pains me particularly right now, mainly because the course would have been perfect for me. I'm not driving myself crazy over it though. There are enough beautiful and important races to come."