SYDNEY (CP) -- Organizers for the Sydney Olympics dismissed claims by Canadian Carol Montgomery that the cycle course used in the women's triathlon was narrow and unsafe.

 Competition manager David Hansen said the course has been used for the past five years in the International Triathlon Union's Sydney World Cup event, including this April's Olympic test race.

 "SOCOG has undertaken extensive roadwork programs on this course over the last eight months and we consistently place the upmost importance on competition safety," Hansen said in a statement.

 Montgomery, a medal favourite, crashed during the bike stage of Saturday's race and took a nasty bump to the head, ending her race and her Olympic dream. At a news conference later in the day, the North Vancouver native severely criticized the course for being too narrow and leading to her fall.

 The Canadian complained about manholes in the streets and spectators leaning over the roadside barriers.

 The ITU supported the organizers in the release, saying that everything was done to ensure the safety of the competitors.