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Having finished fourth in the Olympic Time Trial at London 2012, and taken the Bronze medal in the World Championship Time Trial in Limburg, Netherlands, it was rumoured that Villumsen – who was a multiple Danish champion before taking New Zealand citizenship in 2010 – had retired from the sport. This couldn’t be further from the truth, however, as she had simply chosen to temporarily take a step back.
“I had a very good 2012 season, but after the four-year Olympic cycle I just felt I needed to put my energies into a few other projects before returning to pro women’s cycling,” Villumsen explained.
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— Wiggle Honda Pro Cycling signs Worlds medallist Linda Villumsen | Wiggle Honda Pro Cycling
"“I have talked everything through with BikeNZ who have been very supportive. I know that I will need to do some racing in Europe at least from 2014 to get some UCI points for qualifying for the world championships and Olympics.
“But I think I can be a stronger, better and happier cyclist if I can live in New Zealand. I still love this sport, and I am very grateful to Orica-AIS who have said they will welcome me back if this does not work out.”"
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Villumsen leaves Orica-AIS to plot new program : SBS Cycling Central | Cycling News and Results | Video Highlights
Sad that we won’t see so much of Villumsen’s killer attacking next season - but I’m glad she’s making decisions that will mean a happy life for her
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“The moment I arrived in New Zealand, I wanted to stay. It was in my heart. The Houkamaus took me in as a stranger and made me feel so welcome. As a result, I don’t have a Danish passport any more.”
“I love the relaxed nature of New Zealand; the fact you can walk around in board shorts and jandals. I also love how much New Zealanders get into their sport. People appreciate it when you’re good at something. That means so much.”
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Cycling: Fair exchange - Dane to Kiwi - Sport - NZ Herald News
Lovely profile of Linda Villumsen, interviewingher and the family she lived with as an exchange student
