Cyclist omitted from Aus Olympic squad over criminal charges

Jongewaard8217;s omission was the only surprise in the 28 riders named Friday.

Like Australian swimmer Nick D8217;Arcy, who lost his spot on the Olympic team because of a pending assault charges resulting from a bar fight, Jongewaard is facing court action.

The mountain biker is facing several driving-related offenses following an incident in February last year near Adelaide, South Australia, that left fellow cycling Matthew Rex suffering severe head injuries.

Rex was placed in an induced coma for more than a week, but recovered, and Jongewaard is due to face the charges in November.

If Cycling Australia had nominated Jongewaard, the Australian Olympic Committee could have not approved his selection.

Track sprinter Shane Kelly and road squad member Stuart O8217;Grady will ride at their fifth Olympics. Kelly won a ride-off against Ben Kersten earlier this month to gain selection.

Tour de France favorite Cadel Evans will lead the men8217;s road team.

Oenone Wood was included in the three-rider women8217;s road team along with Athens gold medalist Sara Carrigan and Kate Bates. Bates, the 2006 points champion on the track, will also ride in that event at the Games as well as the road race.

BMX will make its Olympic debut in Beijing and five Australians will compete. They include a rider known officially as Kamakazi after changing his name by deed poll from Jamie Hildebrandt.