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Zika Worries Prompt U.S. Cyclist To Pull Out Of Rio Contention

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With his wife expecting a baby in October, American road racer Tejay van Garderen has withdrawn from consideration for the Rio Summer Olympics, citing the Zika virus that's been linked to birth defects.From a statement released by USA Cycling on van Garderen's behalf today:"After thinking long and hard about the Olympic Games in Rio, I have decided to withdraw my name from consideration for selection in the U.S. team. Although the risks associated with the Zika Virus can be minimal and precautions can be taken, my wife Jessica is pregnant, and I don't want to risk bringing anything back that could potentially have an effect."When asked whether van Garderen is the only American athlete to have withdrawn, a U.S. Olympic Committee official said the organization isn't aware of any similar cases in which an American Olympic hopeful has opted out of competing in Rio.A two-time winner of the USA Pro Challenge, van Garderen placed fifth in the Tour de France in 2014 and in 2012 — the same year

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