New Zealand track cycling's head coach Anthony Peden has stepped down from the role, citing a clash of philosophies with Cycling New Zealand.
The New Zealand sprint track cycling team of Ethan MIitchell, Eddie Dawkins, Anthony Peden (coach) and Sam Webster celebrate victory at the world champs in London. Photo: Photosport
Peden, who has been head sprint coach since September 2013, guided the men's team sprint trio to unparalleled success with nine world medals including three titles, an Olympic silver medal at Rio and 14 Commonwealth Games medals including back-to-back golds in team and individual sprint.
However Peden says his all-encompassing approach is not aligned to that of Cycling New Zealand. He says it's the right time to step away after the recent Commonwealth Games success and with the Tokyo Olympic qualifying period approaching.
"I love all the athletes in the sprint programme they have given me everything that I have asked of them," Peden said.
"I have put plans and processes in place through to Tokyo and I truly believe that these athletes will be successful in 2020.
"This is one of the hardest decision I have made and while I am proud of what we have achieved here, it is the best thing for me to step away. I intend to remain in the sport and believe there are some exciting prospects ahead."
Cycling New Zealand CEO Andrew Matheson says the organisation has lost a coach of high quality with his sprint group the talisman for the programme.
"The results speak for themselves with Anthony having been a Halberg Award coach of the year and his sprinters have achieved global success.
"We understand and respect Anthony's decision as he does with our position.
"He will leave with things in an organised state. We've already spoken to all of the sprinters in the programme and put in place a short-term fix while we look to advertise this role. Anthony has built a world-class programme and there is some depth looking forward, so I expect there to be considerable interest in the role."
-RNZ
