Bennett: Rio Olympic cycling course 'dangerous'

Rio de Janeiro (AAP)
Rio de Janeiro (AAP)

One of the first Olympic events this weekend will be the men's road race. 

George Bennett will fly the Kiwi flag in the race, and has sounded a few warnings about the course. Bennett says it's difficult, but it could also be dangerous, thanks to some tight corners and slick roads.

But that might not be only hazard out on the road, with coach Mark Elliot saying the riders had to dodge some roaming dogs while out training.

Bennett: Rio Olympic cycling course 'dangerous'

George Bennett (Photosport)

Bennett has just come off an impressive debut Tour de France just a few weeks ago. 

Although he says he felt "S***house" after finishing it, the Kiwi says he's feeling good now, and can't wait to get going here in Rio.

Linda Villumsen will ride the women's road race the following day, although her main focus is the time trial 3 days later.

Villumsen won gold in the Time Trial at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, and then had a breakthrough victory at last year's World Championships.

She says it's given her confidence ahead of Rio, but it could also bring more pressure, as her competitors know she’s the one to watch out for.

Newshub.