NOS Cycling•
Theo Bos is the new national coach of the Belgian track sprinters. The five-time world champion succeeds Scot Jonathan Mitchell, who had to resign from his position for private reasons.
42-year-old Bos, who until last month was national coach of the Dutch BMX team, is looking forward to his new job. “Last year I went to watch the World Junior Championships in Apeldoorn and when I walked onto the track there, I started to get the itch again.”
Bos was the best track sprinter in the world three times between 2004 and 2007. After his active career, he was national coach of the Chinese track team for three years between 2021 and 2024.
Bos sees more opportunities to be of value on the track than in – for example – BMX sport. “The past year went very well, we achieved great successes, but my role was more overarching.”
“I had to ensure that the processes ran smoothly. That is something different than being a trainer who helps riders progress sportingly and tactically. On the track I can add more from my experience.”
Sprint culture
It is up to Bos to create a sprint culture in Belgium. “That is actually the assignment. It is a fun and wonderful challenge. The facilities are there, there is enthusiasm and there are plenty of talents. Now it is important to create structure and slowly grow to the absolute top. That takes some time.”
Two years ago, a new track was built in Zolder. “That is often a nice boost to attract talent. And Johnny Mitchell has already made a nice start in setting up the sprint program properly.”
“They are competing very well in the juniors and in the under-23 category. And with Nicky Devluchte you still have an established name among women. She became world champion in 2018, then became a mother, but she still has the talent to reach the world top again.”
