Despite a recent flurry of stories about Shani Davis’ decision not to participate in the team pursuit event, the American team knew months ago he would not participate, his friend said.

Some stories claimed there was competition between Davis and Chad Hedrick, whose goal was to win five gold medals. Hedrick was a member of the pursuit team, and some analysts said Davis’ participation would have gotten the team a medal.

Babicz said because of Davis’ racing schedule, he never intended to race in the pursuit. The U.S. Speedskating team assumed he would participate, Babicz said, although he was not on the original roster. Some news outlets then reported he had dropped off the team only days before, Babicz said.

“People don’t go to the Olympics not knowing what they are going to do,” Babicz said. “You need to prepare yourself for what you are going to do. Shani has never even practiced the pursuit event.”

Davis also did not go to the Olympic opening ceremonies. Babicz said He wanted to be rested for his race the next day. Likewise, the final pursuit event was the day before Davis’ gold medal race.

“The schedule had been released months ago,” Babicz said. “He had never considered it.”

-Sarah Tompkins