Cyclingnews March 2014

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For the latest news visit www.cyclingnews.co.za

VOL 15 NO 2

MARCH 2014

10

TOP TIPS FROM HERMAN FOUCHÉ Bestmed Tour de Boland

SAUSER TACKLES THE TAR RACE PREVIEWS • Bestmed Tour de Boland • Tyger Valley College Mountain Bike Challenge • Emperors Palace Classic

ANOTHER ARGUS TITLE AT FOUCHÉ’S FINGERTIPS BESTMED BOOSTS SA CYCLING Legends of the Pedal

ANDREW STILL MAKES CYCLING MAGIC

CONTENTS

PAGE 16:

STAGGERING

CYCLE TOUR STATS

REGULARS

Editor

2

From the Editor: Another one for the road!

Wynand de Villiers wynand@cyclingnews.co.za

18

Pulse pages: Ten top tips from the champ

Consulting editor

20

Product Feature: Cleat up at a click with Sidi Online

23

Legends of the Pedal: Andrew still makes cycling magic

Gerhard Burger

Contributors Phil Liggett, Coetzee Gouws, Andrew Mclean

Pictures FEATURES

Photosport International, Michelle Cound, Frank Bodenmueller, My Picture

4

Tour of Oman: Froome en route for Le Tour

Design

6

Bestmed boosts SA cycling

Cinnamon Graphix C.C. Chris Dawson – chris@cgraphix.co.za

8

Sauser leads all-star team at Tour de Boland

Printer

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Another Argus title at Fouché’s fingertips

Colorpress Pty (Ltd) Ryan Lotter – 011 493 8622/3/4/5

16

Staggering Cycle Tour stats

Advertising

29

20 Questions for Costa Seibeb: It began on a girl’s pink BMX

email advertising@cyclingnews.co.za or phone 083 269 7659

36

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Published by ASG Events 116B, Glen Avenue, Willow Glen, Pretoria.

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RACE PREVIEWS

32

Emperors Palace Classic: A taste of Europe

34

Tyger Valley College Mountain Bike Challenge: Time to tame the Tyger

Cyclingnews March 2014

01

FROM THE EDITOR

Picture: Wayne Hayward

Another one for the road!

I am one of the long-standing and still ardent followers of road stage racing.

The tactics are just so fascinating and in my view it’s the closest any sport comes to resembling a game of chess.

Some of my fondest sportswriting memories are of my time covering the Rapport Tour as a writer on Beeld’s sports desk. And as I write now, I can’t wait for the start of the Bestmed Tour de Boland, to be held from March 4 to 7.

I had a lot more time on my hands as a journalist during those events than I have now in the organisational set-up, but it still feels as if time flies when we work on a road-cycling tour.

There is obviously a lot of hard work involved, but we have so much fun in the process.

When I became involved in cycling more than 20 years ago, Cycling SA honorary life president Gotty Hansen said I’d better watch out – if the sport gets under your skin you eventually don’t know how to exist without it. How true.

The blood does not flow through our veins while we’re busy on a stage race; it gushes!

Good luck to Sauser and co in outfoxing the local lads. It’s going to be epic!

On to another event taking place in the Western Cape this month. And to a question that goes with it: How many sponsors’ names can you pack into one race name?

That was what we at Cyclingnews were asking after the announcement that Momentum had joined the Cape Argus Pick ‘n Pay Cycle Tour as co-headline sponsor.

Now known as The Cape Argus Pick n Pay Momentum Cycle Tour, the race is still the annual highlight on the SA cycling calendar. But it does seem to rival supercalifragilisticexpialidocious as a bit of a tongue twister.

As cycling media we obviously want to give sponsors their dues in aid of the sport and its continued growth, so we’ll try our best with this one.

The never-ending conundrum that Dave Bellairs and his wonderful crew still have to contend with is how to get people to stop calling the event “The Argus”.

If all the joint headline sponsors can find someone to get round that one, it will be money well spent.

But what’s in a name anyway when you’re attracting 40 000 cyclists.

Wynand de Villiers

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Cyclingnews March 2014

FEATURE

Picture: Photosport International

EN ROUTE FOR LE TOUR…

In an impressive start to the season, defending Tour de France champion Chris Froome (SKY) claimed overall victory in the Tour of Oman for a second consecutive year last month.

IN THE FINAL STAGE of the event Froome stayed comfortably in the pack while André Greipel flew to his third stage success in the 2014 Middle Eastern tour.

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Cyclingnews March 2014

All of 141 riders gathered at the start of the final stage and Froome (SKY) defended his 26 second red jersey lead over Teejay Van Garderen (BMC) comfortably. •CN

FEATURE

RESULTS OVERALL 1. Christopher Froome Team Sky 2. Tejay Van Garderen Bmc Racing Team 3. Rigoberto Uran Uran Omega Pharma-Quick Step 4. Joaquim Rodriguez Team Katusha 5. Robert Gesink Belkin Pro Cycling 6. Domenico Pozzovivo Ag2r La Mondiale 7. Sergio Henao Montoya Team Sky 8. Roman Kreuziger Tinkoff-Saxo 9. Johann Tschopp Iam Cycling 10.Daniel Fernandez Team Katusha POINTS 1. AndrĂŠ Greipel 2. Nacer Bouhanni 3. Peter Sagan 4. Alexander Kristoff 5. Rigoberto Uran Uran

Lotto-Belisol Fdj.Fr Cannondale Team Katusha Omega Pharma-Quick Step

Cyclingnews March 2014

5

FEATURE

Words: Coetzee Gouws

Bestmed boosts SA cycling Bestmed continues to expand its footprint in South African cycling through its sponsorship of eight races on the national calendar and the Bestmed-ASG women’s team.

THE MEDICAL SCHEME has added the new Bestmed Powerade Sun City road cycle challenge to its line-up, which includes road and mountain bike races in Gauteng, Mpumalanga and the Eastern and Western Cape.

Race organiser Wynand de Villiers said Bestmed was the first corporate entity to see the value of a year-round blanket event sponsorship across all disciplines and in most provinces in South Africa.

“They have crept into the hearts of cyclists by helping to resurrect events such as the Jock Cycle Classique and Tour de Boland, which are co-presented by ASG. “Their sponsorship of these events in particular shows that they truly support the sport and that it’s not just a brand-awareness exercise.”

De Villiers said the four-day Bestmed Tour de Boland, which starts in Stellenbosch on March 4, was one of the country’s few international road tours and aimed to develop world-class African cyclists.

“This year’s race will feature a fantastic international line-up with multiple world champion Christoph Sauser heading up a strong Songo.info invitational team.”

All the top local pro teams have confirmed their attendance and

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Cyclingnews March 2014

the field will also be open to amateurs across gender and age categories.

Bestmed’s head of sponsorship, Sasja la Grange, says growth of mass-participation events in cycling had presented the scheme with an increasing number of opportunities to get more involved in the sport.

“We could seriously look into expanding our sponsorship strategy,” she says.

Sponsoring sporting events is a natural extension of Bestmed’s business and these provide a platform for encouraging people to build sustainable, health conscious lifestyles.

“Bestmed is in a position to see firsthand how lifestyle is influencing people’s illness in South Africa.

“As a strategy to prevent and control chronic illness and other illnesses, we decided to support sports development.

“Our view is that cycling is one of the fastest growing sports in South Africa and is enjoyed by professional and social cyclists. We especially encourage families to get involved in the mountain bike races,” Le Grange explains.

“We aim to grow by attracting a younger market for our cross-subsidisation model to work effectively. Cycling certainly fits our demographic.”

She says Bestmed’s involvement in the often under-supported arena of women’s cycling is also starting to pay dividends.

The team did particularly well at the national road championships in Durban.

In the road races, Juanita Venter claimed the champion’s jersey in the 35-to-39 age group and Monique Gerber finished second in the event for junior girls.

Gerber was also runner-up behind teammate Michelle Benson in the time-trial.

“We are very excited about their performances,” says La Grange.

For more information, find the race on Facebook or follow@TourdeBoland. •CN

THE EIGHT BESTMEDSPONSORED RACES Tour de Boland (March 4 to 7) Jock Cycle Classique (July 19) Bestmed Powerade Sun City Cycle Challenge (August 16) Lost City Mountain Bike Event (August 17) Makro Cycle Tour (September 6) Campus2Campus SuperClassic (September 21) Satellite Classic (October 18) KZN Expedition MTB Race (November 8) Val de Vie MTB Challenge (November 23)

FEATURE

Words: Coetzee Gouws • Picture: Karin Schermbrucker/SPORTZPICS

SAUSER LEADS ALL-STAR TEAM

AT TOUR DE BOLAND Multiple mountain-bike world champion and four-time Absa Cape Epic winner Christoph Sauser will lead a powerhouse invitational team at the Bestmed Tour de Boland. >

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Cyclingnews March 2014

FEATURE

“Stellenbosch is giving me so much, so it’s great to give back to those organisers who are dedicated to cycling. At the end of the day, everybody benefits.”

Cyclingnews March 2014

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FEATURE

THE FOUR-DAY ROAD TOUR, presented

by ASG, starts in Franschhoek on March 4, and will pit Sauser’s stellar line-up of mountain bikers against the cream of South African roadies.

The Meerendal-Songo.info team will include the Swiss champion’s new Cape Epic partner Frantisek Rabon, as well as local pros Erik Kleinhans, Lourens Luus, Nico Bell and Oliver Munnik.

They will face pro teams such as Abantu, Bonitas and the local MTNQhubeka outfit, which includes last year’s champion, Nic Dougall.

“I’m glad there will be good competition. It will make the race interesting and it lifts our game too,” Sauser said recently. “As mountain bikers we will be motivated to give the pro road teams a good run.”

Former World Tour road rider Rabon, who made the switch to off-road racing this year, would be the team’s “best horse” for the European-style tour, he said.

“I hope Rabon will win the prologue time-trial, although that means on the remaining stages there will be work for us to possibly retain the jersey.”

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Cyclingnews March 2014

All eyes will be on the three-time Czech time-trial champion during the 21km stage from the Berg River Dam to the top of Helshoogte Pass.

Sauser said Rabon, who rode for Omega Pharma-Quick Step last season, would provide invaluable guidance on the three road stages between Stellenbosch, Tulbagh and Riebeeck-Kasteel.

The last of these ends with a dramatic mountaintop finish on the spectacular Franschhoek Pass.

“If the race is tactical, we sure will benefit from his experience,” said the 37-year-old Swiss national. “But when it comes to the racing up Franschhoek Pass for the final showdown, the legs will do the talking!”

It is one of only two road races he will do this season and Sauser is looking forward to the event. “For me, it’s free hard speed training with lots of added excitement.”

The former Olympic bronze medallist said roadwork formed an important part of his preparations for international commitments such as the Cape Epic.

“I train around thirty per cent on the road, especially intervals like power

workouts. The power meter is a great tool for it and those numbers really kick my butt.”

Sauser, who spends part of the year training in Stellenbosch, said he enjoyed participating in local races. “Stellenbosch is giving me so much, so it’s great to give back to those organisers who are dedicated to cycling. At the end of the day, everybody benefits.”

The success of events such as the Bestmed Tour de Boland depended largely on the individuals and sponsors who were willing to develop road cycling and spend time and energy on it.

Unfortunately, South Africa was seriously lacking in terms of road stage racing opportunities, said Sauser.

“I think there are not more than three in the country. On the other hand, we have more than 40 mountain bike stage races. So it’s really important to assist road tours to develop talent and provide exposure and experience.”

Aside from the pros, this year’s Bestmed Tour de Boland will also feature categories for amateurs.

For more information, find the race on Facebook or follow @TourdeBoland. •CN

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FEATURE

ANOTHER ARGUS TITLE AT

FOUCHÉ’S FINGERTIPS Herman Fouché will return to defend his title in the renamed Cape Argus Pick n Pay Momentum Cycle Tour in Cape Town on March 9. >

Herman Fouché will return to defend his title at the Cape Argus Pick n Pay Momentum Cycle Tour in Cape Town on March 9.

Cyclingnews March 2014

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FEATURE

WITH THE NUMBER of entries limited to 35 000, the world’s largest timed cycle race will once again draw a top international field. And at the head of the list will be a focused Fouché.

The champion seems to be on song after winning the Dis-Chem Ride for Sight in his hometown of Boksburg in February. “My main goal for the start of the season is to take the Argus title again,” the 26-year-old said recently.

“My form is on track and all the riders in Team Bonitas are on good form.”

Fouché’s ambitions suffered a slight setback when he was involved in a crash during the recent Carnival City Macsteel Classic. One of his fingernails was torn out. “It’s a bit of a drawback, hurting my finger pretty badly, but luckily I pedal with my legs,” he said.

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Cyclingnews March 2014

But the incident would not prevent him or his team-mates from giving their all to retain the crown, the sprinter added.

Only the team’s climbers were nominated to take part in the four-day Bestmed Tour de Boland during the week before the Cycle Tour. “The rest of us will be firing up our legs at the Argus,” Fouché said.

His biggest challenger on the day will probably come from last year’s runner-up and 2011 champion Tyler Day of Westvaal-BMC. Last year Fouché held his nerve in a bunch sprint for the finish line to snatch victory in the 109km race in 2 hours 39 minutes and 55 seconds. (The fastest time still stands behind the name of Tour de France veteran Robbie Hunter, who clocked 2:27:29 in 2008.)

In the women’s race, seven-time winner Anriette Schoeman (Africa Silks-Bestmed) will be hoping to continue what she has described as a “love-hate relationship” with the event.

Schoeman, who is recovering from a recent illness, is likely to face strong challenges from the likes of two-time winner Cherise Stander and Sweden’s 2009 champion Jennie Stenerhag.

The Cycle Tour’s Lifecycle Week begins with the mountain-bike challenge at Le Bonheur Wine Estate in Stellenbosch on March 1 and 2. Last year, RE:CM’s Erik Kleinhans and Contego’s Mariske Strauss won the off-road feature races.

Riders in the 13th MTB challenge will compete on even terms because the new venue has never-ridden-before trails that well-known route builder Meurant Botha has set up. •CN

Date: 22 March 2014 Venue: Tyger Valley College, Lynnwood road, Pretoria East, Gauteng, South Africa Distances: 20km, 40km and 70km Route: Mildly technical, Farm roads, jeep track, single track, bridges, river crossings Starting Times: 70km (07h30), 40km (08h20), 20km (09h10) Entry fees: 70km (R190), 40km (R170), 20km (R130) Timed by: Spectrum Sport

Enter on-line: www.asgevents.co.za On-line entries close: 16 March 2014

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For further information, log onto www.asgevents.co.za, email eventsupport@asgworld.co.za or phone 076 621 1807

FEATURE

Picture: Wayne Hayward

Staggering Cycle Tour stats Here are some jaw-dropping statistics from the 2013 edition of the world’s largest individually timed cycle race. Entries for this year’s event sold out in less than one week; a record.

35 408 riders took part 27 500 of these were men and 7 908 women 952 UK nationals made up the largest foreign contingent. Next was Namibia (410) and Germany (240) 150 000 litres of Coca-Cola products were consumed on race day 500 000 cups were used 7 000 bags of ice, each weighing 15kg, were used 245 physiotherapists worked en route and in the finishers’ tent 66 ambulances make up the Medical support vehicles, along with ten motorbikes and three helicopters 1 520 people received medical attention and 2 000 cotton swabs were used.

440 marshals manned the course 185 security guards provided services 149 medical crew members did duty •CN

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FEATURE

TEN TOP TIPS FROM THE CHAMP Defending champion Herman Fouché shares his ten top tips with those who want to ride their best Argus yet.

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Words: Herman Fouche • Picture: Sean Badenhorst

FEATURE

THE WEEK BEFORE

ON RACE DAY

1

Don’t train hard and long. You’re not going to get any fitter in a week. Take short fast rides to wake up the legs.

2

Stay in your normal routine. Don’t try any new substances or food, and stick to what you know works for you.

1 Wake up early. You don’t want to be in a rush to eat and get to the start. Have a good breakfast as usual but don’t overdo it.

3

Check your bike after every ride to make sure it is in perfect order. You don’t want to get to the start line and then discover something is wrong.

4

During the two nights before the race it is important to get a good night’s sleep. I am usually stressed out on the eve of the event can’t stop thinking about the race.

5

Have a good dinner the night before. For me, it is pasta and chicken; food that’s not too heavy.

2 Do a final check on your bike before you leave for the start. Make sure the tyres are inflated, the chain is lubricated and you have your bottles and bars and the energy kick of your choice.

3 Drink and eat during the race. When you have a chance to take a sip from your bottle, do so.

4 Do your best.

5 Enjoy it. •CN

PRODUCT FEATURE

Cleat up at a click with Sidi Online Avid cyclists can now get the latest gear at the click of a mouse, courtesy of the Sidi Online store.

THE WEBSITE, which was officially launched in November last year, allows riders to shop 24 hours a day without leaving their chair or interrupting those precious daylight training hours.

ASG Sport Solutions director Michael de Jongh says the store is already extremely popular with the local cycling community.

“Our site visits have more than trebled and the actual merchandising is growing every month as customers experience the site, and as word spreads.”

De Jongh says the online store caters for all three of the major disciplines – road cycling, mountain biking and triathlon.

“With each of the disciplines we offer different models to cover the full spectrum of price points as well as the level of excellence riders need from their shoes. We also offer different spares for these ranges.”

A number of overseas-based online stores are already active in the local market, with the Sidi Online store presenting a proudly South African alternative.

“We offer the very best quality cycling shoes at internationally competitive prices through a secure and reliable, locally based store. This guarantees the best prices as well as back-up service and support.”

De Jongh says the national support and partner network is what sets the store apart from its international competitors.

“Our store was developed in conjunction with our Sidi dealer partners and a full list of our online partners appears on the site.

“The main objective is to increase the availability of the Sidi brand by increasing stock within the dealer shops and by offering it online.”

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Cyclingnews March 2014

“Each client can select the nearest dealer at checkout and his or her shoes are delivered to the store.”

Shoppers can also have their parcels delivered to a private address anywhere in South Africa, as well as other African countries.

All major credit cards are accepted and average delivery times are 48 to 72 hours after confirmation of payment.

“But most shoes reach their destinations sooner, especially around the major centres,” says De Jongh.

The store will stay up-to-date with the latest and best shoes in the Sidi ranges.

“We believe it’s the world’s leading cycling shoe and we will always focus on the best shoes in each range.

“The pricing is very competitive, not only with local retail stores but also with international retail and online stores.”

As regular shops do, Sidi Online will run specials related to upcoming events as well as end-of-range and seasonal clearance sales. “Currently, we have a 15 per cent off Ironman special, as well as other event specials.”

Register as a user at www.sidionline.co.za before March 19 and stand a chance to win 33% off your next purchase. Winners will be notified via email.

Visit www.sidionline.co.za for more information. •CN

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LEGENDS OF THE PEDAL

ANDREW STILL

MAKES CYCLING MAGIC Andrew Mclean has come a long way since Alan “The Idol” van Heerden first dangled the carrot of a professional road contract in front of the 19-year-old newbie.

NOW, 30 YEARS LATER, Andrew has four Giro del Capo titles to his name, is the driving force behind the wildly popular SuperCycling television show and recently opened his flagship Cycle Lab megastore in Fourways, Johannesburg.

He is also the national mountain-bike champion for veterans in the cross-country and marathon disciplines.

“It certainly is a balancing act with family, business and training,” says Andrew, whose wife Ali runs Cycle Lab’s national club and is also an avid mountain biker.

The couple has two teenage children, UCT student Michael, who was head boy at Hilton College last year, and 15-year-old Lauren.

“There’s always something that’s suffering a little just to fit everything in,” admits Andrew.

An average day for this cycling legend starts at quarter to four in the morning.

“I’m on the road early, finish training, have a quick shower and I’m then in the store or at SuperSport until about six most evenings before heading home for some family time.”

Even there he’s never far from those two-wheeled machines, because home is a mountain-bike farm just past Lanseria Airport north on Johannesburg.

All this might never have been had Andrew not fallen into cycling as part of his tertiary studies.

“I studied Phys Ed at JCE, the Johannesburg Teacher’s Training College. As part of the curriculum, we had to do triathlon and I really enjoyed it.” >

Cyclingnews March 2014

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LEGENDS OF THE PEDAL

“It’s no wonder that, when mountain bikers race on the road against the roadies, especially when it’s really long and tough, the mountain bikers start to come to the fore.”

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Cyclingnews March 2014

Picture: Sportograf

LEGENDS OF THE PEDAL

However, he quickly realised that his swimming and canoeing were pretty average and injuries hampered his running. “But I really enjoyed the cycling and I was doing well, so I decided to start racing.”

He quickly got results, catching the eye of Van Heerden and the Southern Sun/M-Net team.

“It was the big pro team at the time and Alan said if I won the national amateur champs, they would offer me a contract. I’d probably been racing for less than a year at that stage.”

He shone and the rest, as they say, is history. “I stopped studying. In those days we had conscription and I didn’t want to go to the army, although the guy in charge of cycling in the army knew about me and tried to get me in every year.

“So I enrolled at varsity for one subject every year. I didn’t go to any lectures and I raced my bike all over the world.

And then the following year I’d do the same.”

Just as he was running out of time, conscription ended.

British passport Born in Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia) and raised in South Africa, Andrew raced internationally on a British passport. “What I would do, is race here in the summer and then in winter go across to Belgium and do some racing in Europe.

“In the beginning, I raced under the pseudonym Richard Andrews, which is my second name and first name, but it got to a point where we could race under our own names.”

After dominating the local scene for two years, Mclean went in search of a new challenge and joined Robbie McIntosh’s Topsport-VW Fox team in 1991. “From there I moved on to a team called Peaceforce. And then I raced in Europe for a year for a Belgian pro team.”

After contracting a virus at the All-Africa Games in Zimbabwe in 1995, Andrew decided to start exploring alternative career options. “All I knew was cycling, so I started Cycle Lab, which in the early days was predominantly a training place.

“People came to my garage where I had a couple of indoor trainers and I trained them.”

He eventually realised this was no

way to build a sustainable business.

“I realised you had to sell them some bits and pieces as well. So we started a small retail outlet and it grew from there.

That must be close to 16 or 17 years ago now.”

From his garage, the store moved to Woodmead, then Paulshof and then to Design Quarter. Today it is the country’s largest cycling retail chain, comprising 12 corporate-owned stores and franchise outlets nationwide.

Last year, in another strategic move, Andrew sold the business to the MoreGolf Group and stayed on as chief executive. He keeps his office at the 2 300m2 megastore, the largest in the southern hemisphere.

“I’m still very hands on. If I’m not racing or riding, I’m here in the store, ready to talk to customers and advise them.”

Cycling show on Supersport Talking about cycling is something he has been passionate about for a long time. It prompted him to approach SuperSport about a dedicated TV show just over a decade ago.

“I said, ‘You have a rugby show and a cricket show and a soccer show but nothing for us cyclists’.” >

Cyclingnews March 2014

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LEGENDS OF THE PEDAL

The channel’s response was enthusiastic but they tasked him with finding a sponsor and enough content to fill the one-hour time slot every week. He delivered and the show took off.

“It’s difficult. We could do an hour-long show every night with all the content that is out there, but keeping everyone happy is an impossible task.

“Some people mail or tweet or SMS us that they absolutely loved a particular segment, while others will say they couldn’t stand it and they can’t believe we wasted valuable airtime on it.”

The challenge is to try to create a balance between different age categories, genders and disciplines, while including local and international news as well as the latest nutrition tips and gear.

Mountain-bike challenge It was his perpetual need for a fresh challenge that led to Mclean taking up the burgeoning sport of mountain biking.

He won the inaugural Old Mutual joBerg2c and the masters’ category at the Absa Cape Epic twice.

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Cyclingnews March 2014

“A mountain-bike race is really a timetrial with some obstacles in it. I was good at time-trials and multiday tours, so the fit came relatively easy. I just had to develop my skills, which I’m still doing.”

The rise of off-road stage racing and the demise of so many road tours, such as the Allied and the Hansom tours, resulted in the large-scale defection of roadies to the sport.

“On the road, we’re expecting our guys to prepare and race at a world-class level, yet all they’ve got to work with are flat 100km fun rides.

“It’s no wonder that, when mountain bikers race on the road against the roadies, especially when it’s really long and tough, the mountain bikers start to come to the fore.”

In addition to supporting the handful of stage races, such as the Bestmed Tour de Boland and Mzansi Tour, Mclean reckons more good, hard classics are needed.

“We need to look at ways to regenerate the road side. There’s just so little for those guys at the moment.

“We can’t look to the organisers of

the fun rides for that. If we want our pros to do well, we need to start putting on events that develop them as well.”

One way would be to hold spectatorfriendly circuit races in various business parks, he says.

Looking forward, McLean says he will compete as long as he can ride his bicycle. “Maybe not competing eventually but just riding my bicycle and enjoying cycling.”

Looking back, he says there have been no real lowlights to speak of. “I’ve had lots of disappointments, crashes, broken bones; they’re just part of the journey.

You have to adapt, change and come back stronger.”

His passion for cycling in all its forms is clearly as strong as when he first cleated up three decades ago. “I got my first Springbok colours after one of the Rapport Tours. All I know is I have a green, moth-eaten blazer somewhere in a cupboard.

“I’m not very sentimental. I don’t keep much stuff. But that one I’ve certainly kept.” •CN

Leave Friday afternoon for an unforgettable weekend getaway at our cycle-friendly resort book your next family holiday at Sondela Nature Reserve in the Bushveld where there are always more than enough exciting EVENTS to keep you busy the entire year!

Sondela is only 90 minutes’ drive from Johannesburg and the perfect getaway destination when events and excitement are what you are looking for!

Book your spot now in one of the new chalets, a luxury Makhato Bush Lodge, the 5-Star Country House, the Caravan Park or the rustic Tambuki 4x4 Camp. Sondela’s caravan park truly deserves its rating as one of South Africa’s top 100 resorts. Expect green lawns, plenty of shade, 89 demarcated stands and 52 stands with private ablution facilities. Each of our stands has water and electricity points and its own braai facility. The ablution block, with built-in baby baths, a family bathroom and facilities for disabled guests, is designed to meet a camper’s every need. The park’s Premier Lapa houses the bar and entertainment area with DStv, pool table, table tennis and darts. There’s also a heated swimming pool. With activities on offer ranging from hiking, horse riding and game drives to volleyball and target shooting, Sondela is bound to have something to keep you entertained!! The popular Ranger Programme is a must for little ones, who will also enjoy the new kiddies’ entertainment area, where they can build their own pizzas, watch a movie or play on the jungle gym. The tree house, Farmyard and Wildlife Centre all add to the fun. Stop by the General Dealer for freshly made treats or book a table at Piccinini’s Bistro or the brand new Farmyard Coffee Shoppe for delicious meals. There’s never a dull moment at Sondela…

2014 SPECIAL EVENTS CALENDAR 17 MAY 18 MAY 24 MAY 28 JUNE 29 JUNE 16 JULY 2 AUGUST 6 - 7 SEPTEMBER 6 SEPTEMBER 7 SEPTEMBER 25 OCTOBER 26 OCTOBER NOVEMBER 5 - 7 DECEMBER

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Road Race 103km, 40km & 10km MTB Race 40km & 20km Equestrian Event - 40km, 80km & 120km 500m, 5km, 20km & 40km 60km T.B.A. Equestrian Event - 80km & 120km 23km, 10km, 4km & 500m Family Fun Walk on the Reserve Road Race - 104km & 40km MTB Race - 25km Cycling and interaction with Celebrities!

120km in 3 Stages - 20km, 40km & 60km

20 QUESTIONS

20 QUESTIONS FOR COSTA SEIBEB

It began on a girl’s pink BMX The winner of this year’s Action Ford Berge en Dale Classic, Costa Seibeb, chats to Cyclingnews about his first win on SA soil, his career plans and the state of cycling in his homeland of Namibia.

1 Where were you born and raised and where do you live now?

I was born and raised in Windhoek but now spend most of the year in South Africa.

1 Was Berge en Dale your first major win on South African soil for the WCC Africa team?

Yes, Berge en Dale was my first race win on SA soil but not the last one. Many more to come!

2 Tell us about your race. Did you expect to win?

I didn’t expect to win. But it was my birthday, so I got a present from my team-mates. Thanks to them for giving me such a great present. I loved the route; it was a bit hilly, which I really like. It was a great race.

3 As a fellow Namibian, was Olympian Mannie Heymans’s success a big inspiration or influence on your cycling career?

Yes, Mannie Heymans and Dan Craven are the two guys I look up to. They are my role models. I want to get where they are and even achieve what they dream about. I want to be the next Mannie or Dan. 4 Who would you say is Namibia’s top cyclist at the moment? Is it fair to say it’s you? And why?

If I can say it, Dan Craven. And then it’s me and my team-mate Till Drobisch.

Dan is riding at a higher level than us.

5 How did you first get into cycling?

I started riding on a girl’s pink BMX bike. Later BEN Namibia called to give me a chance to ride for them. A while after that the team was disbanded and my bike was stolen too. I eventually got it back and Dan helped me to get it into racing condition.

9 What would you say were the three top podiums or results of your career so far?

Winning the EKZ Zuri Metzgete cycle race (Zurich Grand Prix) in Switzerland and the mountain-bike cross-country championships were two big ones for me but there are many more. >

6 You won the Kia MTB Series in Namibia last year. Where does mountain biking fit into your career and is road racing your passion?

Yes, road racing is my passion but, as a cyclist, I love riding any bike. I do mountain biking when it’s my offseason and when I am home.

7 You were second in the national elite road championships in Namibia last year. Do you have a win in your sights at this year’s champs?

Yes, I was second last year and this year I have no choice but to win it. I want to be the Namibian champ. I’ll do what it takes and give all I have to take it.

8 Tell us a bit about the cycling scene in Namibia?

Cycling in Namibia is really growing now. We have talented cyclists back home and soon we will have a good team, with more cyclists out of the country racing internationally.

Costa Seibeb celebrates his victory at the EKZ Zuri Metzgete in Zurich, Switzerland, in August.

Cyclingnews March 2014

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20 QUESTIONS

“JP van Zyl has helped me so much in life and is still helping me. He saw that I had talent and even helped take me to Switzerland and France.”

11 What is your best cycling memory so far, and why?

Racing in Switzerland. I just love the place. It’s so nice and green, with so many cyclists around. Thanks to JP van Zyl for giving me that chance to go and see how the world looks. I won that race there, which was a big thing for me as well as everyone who supports and takes care of me.

12 What is your worst cycling memory so far, and why?

Having my bike stolen. I had to stop riding for some time and when I got it back it was not in riding condition. I didn’t have money to repair it and had to make it single speed just to get back on the road.

13 You were part of the winning team at the Bestmed Tour de Boland last year. Will you be back and will it be a different race compared to last year since you have big names like Bonitas and Abantu and Christoph Sauser competing?

Yes, I’ll be back. I love competing against guys stronger than me and I love riding tours. My team and I are ready for it.

14 When and how did you come to join the WCC Africa team?

I first joined them in 2012. The Craven family and some other private sector business people helped me get there.

I really appreciated it. Dan’s mother was coaching me and helping with everything.

15 Talk us through a day in the life of a rider at the WCCA academy.

We train in the morning and then cook something for lunch and eat. Then it’s stretches, shower and off to bed. If I’m wakeful, I’ll chat to my friends, watch TV or help the mechanic.

16 Besides teaching you the skills of riding, what other value does the academy have in terms of mentoring riders and preparing them for international competition?

A: Being part of an international team, we are all far away from home. So we teach each other our languages, how to cook and so on.

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Cyclingnews March 2014

17 Have you learned a lot from someone like JP van Zyl? JP van Zyl has helped me so much in life and is still helping me. He saw that I had talent and even helped take me to Switzerland and France. I’m grateful to him for taking care of me and the team members too.

19 How do you as a team of international riders cope with the challenges of working together and overcoming language barriers?

It’s hard but we’re brothers; so we help and teach each other when there are things we don’t know. It’s amazing how we get together and it’s so nice.

18 Is it difficult to be far from home and family?

Before it was hard being far from home but now I am getting used to it. Ja, the team house is just like my home and my mates are my brothers. It’s definitely better now.

20 Do you see your place in the WCC Africa team as a stepping stone to the MTN-Qhubeka ProTour team and top-level international cycling?

Yes, it’s my stepping stone. It’s my dream to ride for MTN-Qhubeka or a top-level team. I believe I can and will give what I have to get there. •CN

RACE PREVIEW

Words: Coetzee Gouws • Picture: Peter Morey

EMPERORS PALACE CLASSIC

A taste of Europe DATE 12 and 13 April 2014

VENUE Emperors Palace Resort, Kempton Park

STARTING TIMES Mountain bikes – 08:00 (20km and 40km) Road races: 06:00 (102km and 50km); 10:00 (Kids Classic) and 11:00 (Circuit Spectacular)

ENTRY FEES Road cyclists: R250 (102km) and R140 (50km) Mountain bikes – R160 (40km) and R110 (20km)

ONLINE ENTRIES www.cycleevents.co.za Closing date: 1 April 2014

MORE INFORMATION For further information, log on to www.asgevents.co.za, e-mail eventsupport@asgworld.co.za or phone 076 621 1807

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Cyclingnews March 2014

HIGH-SPEED CRITERIUM circuit racing returns to Johannesburg this autumn with the seventh Emperors Palace Classic.

The annual cycling spectacular east of Johannesburg is presented by ASG. It starts with the popular mountain-bike component on Saturday April 12, and continues with the road and criterium races the following day.

Traditionally held in jam-packed February, the bumper weekend was moved to a less congested slot last year and attracted more than 6 000 riders across all events.

Race director Wynand de Villiers says the organisers are again expecting a capacity turnout. “This event fills an important niche on the racing calendar and gives riders in all disciplines something to train for before the winter chill sets in.”

De Villiers says mountain bikers in the 20km and 40km races will again experience a little jet propulsion, as the routes crossed the grounds of the OR Tambo International Airport.

“They ride parallel to, but at a safe distance from, the runways. The thrill of hearing those powerful aircraft engines is one of the major attractions of this event.”

On the road side, the 102km feature

route remains unchanged for the fifth consecutive year. “We have had lots of positive feedback from riders, so we decided not to mess with a winning formula.”

De Villiers describes the route as “fast, flat and exciting, but very manageable”.

Last year, David Maree won the race for Team Abantu (formerly Tasol-GT) in a nailbiting three-man sprint to the line.

With more than 100 metro police officers and 200 marshals on duty, the event is also one of the safest in Gauteng.

For those who are not ready to tackle the full distance, there is a 50km short-course option. The feature races will be followed by the ever-popular Kids Classic for children between two and eight years.

The racing action culminates in the Circuit Spectacular, a 30-minute criterium that sees South Africa’s top roadies burning rubber as they do laps around the top level of the Emperors Palace parking lot.

“This is something that no real cycling enthusiast wants to miss. It’s a rare opportunity to see a real European-style kermesse,” says De Villiers.

Entertainment will be provided by the casino resort, and De Villiers says the Classic offers the ideal weekend break for the whole family.

RACE PREVIEW

Registration takes place at Cycle Lab Fourways on the Thursday (10:00 to 16:00) and at the venue – 64@ The Palace – on the Friday (10:00 to 16:00) and the Saturday (09:00 to 15:00).

Late entries will be accepted only at registration and not on race day.

For more information, contact ASG Events on 076 621 1807 or e-mail eventsupport@asgworld.co.za.

Go to www.facebook.com/ emperorsclassic or @emperorsclassic for updates. •CN

EMPERORS PALACE CLASSIC

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Proud logistics partner Cyclingnews of March 2014

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RACE PREVIEW

Words: Coetzee Gouws • Picture: Shutterstock.com

SIDI ONLINE TYGER VALLEY COLLEGE MTB CHALLENGE

Time to tame the Tyger DATE 22 March 2014

VENUE Tyger Valley College, Pretoria East

ROUTE Mildly technical, farm roads, jeep track, single track, bridges, river crossings.

ELEVATION 1 400m

ASCENT 670m (70 km route)

STARTING TIMES 70 km: from 07:30, 40 km: from 08:20; 20 km: from 09:10

ENTRY FEES R190 (70km), R170 (40km) and R130 (20km)

ONLINE ENTRIES www.asgevents.co.za Closing date: 16 March 2014

MORE INFORMATION For further information, log on to www.asgevents.co.za, e-mail eventsupport@asgworld.co.za or phone 076 621 1807

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Cyclingnews March 2014

MOUNTAIN BIKERS HAVE another opportunity to earn their stripes when they try to tame the SIDI Online Tyger Valley College Mountain Bike Challenge, presented by Beden in Pretoria East on March 22.

The sixth edition, presented by new sponsor SIDI Online, will again burn bright as riders start and finish on the private school grounds off Lynnwood Road.

Route director Darren Herbst says the spectacular feature route towards Donkerhoek and back offers something for every rider; including hardy pros.

“Its draw is that it’s really fast and flowing with some technical single-track sections. It’s really, really beautiful terrain.

“You’re crossing one or two streams, train lines and purpose-built bridges and you’re going through culverts; all right here in Pretoria.”

The 70km route, which traverses a section of ASG’s Rosemary Hill mountain bike park, boasts a “breathtaking” elevation of over 1 400m, with a testing 670m of climbing.

Last year’s winner was young Arno du Toit of the ASG MTB Academy team, who recently claimed his first national series marathon win at Dullstroom.

At Tyger Valley, veteran champion Andrew Mclean followed him home, with Julius Cobbett third.

The event also offers 40km and 20km distance options for social and family riders, with medals to all finishers.

“The response last year was so good and the riders enjoyed the routes so much that we’re trying to keep them the same as much as possible this year,” says Herbst.

Most of the changes and innovations will be found at the start-finish with more family entertainment and refreshment stalls, he says. “The great thing about this race is that the school is actively involved.

The kids not only compete but also help out with marshalling and other activities.”

Participants can have their bikes washed by Red Hot Products, and DRSA/Global ASP will provide free wi-fi with their on-site technology rig.

Registration takes place from 10:00 to 16:00 on March 20 at Cycle Lab Fourways and between the same times the next day at Bruce Reyneke Cycles.

Online entries will be seeded according to the SA Seeding system. Seeding and distance stickers will be available with race packs at registration.

Timing will be courtesy of Spectrum Sport. Riders who do not have permanent timing boards will be issued with temporary ones.

Enter at www.asgevents.co.za by March 16. For more information, e-mail eventsupport@asgworld.co.za or phone 076 621 1807. •CN

BIKE SHOP FEATURE

Words: Coetzee Gouws • Pictures: Erika Venter

Find the A to Z of riding at Alpha Beta Cycles People don’t often buy a business blindly, but that’s exactly what entrepreneur Wimpie Geyer did when he purchased Alpha Beta Cycles in Kimberley in 1991.

“I JUST WANTED to do something different. At the time I was not married and didn’t have a family of my own, so I had fewer responsibilities. If I wanted to take a risk that was the time,” Geyer recalls.

The risk came in the form of a cycling shop that included a section dedicated to carpeting.

Of the three bike shops in town, Geyer’s was the smallest. He promptly got rid of the carpeting side of the business and worked on expanding the floor area.

“I think we had something like six bikes on the floor when we started.

Today there are around 150.

“We’re undoubtedly the biggest bike shop in Kimberley and one of the largest in the Northern Cape.”

Growing up, Geyer dabbled in diverse sporting disciplines such as squash, rugby, cricket, gymnastics and softball. “I’ve always tried my hand at different things.

At heart, I’m a jack of all trades but master of none,” he jokes.

36

Cyclingnews March 2014

This flexibility came in handy when he decided to change his career path. Having lived in Bloemfontein, Durban and Johannesburg for a decade, the Kimberley native’s hometown was calling his name.

Geyer maintains that the expansion and success of the store wasn’t merely down to his expertise and handiwork.

“I’m very proud of my staff. They’re a great source of support and I know my shop is in good hands.

“My right-hand woman, Christelle Gouws, will be going to the Cape Epic for the third time as a pro team mechanic this year.”

Although mountain biking has exploded in Kimberley as it has done everywhere else, Geyer believes a good bike shop should cater to roadies and mountain bikers alike.

“Kimberley is one of those places where mountain biking almost comes naturally. A few kilometres and you’re out of town and on the trails.

“But I feel that if a road cyclist comes

in and needs a part or some accessory, I should be able to help him.”

Geyer enjoys supporting local events, of which the Wintershoek Mountain Bike Rally is a good example.

“The inaugural race was held at a local game reserve last year to raise funds for wildlife rehabilitation and we’re hoping it will become a fixture on the calendar.

We helped with route building, provided marshals and sponsored prizes.”

His shop stocks Pinarello, Giant, Merida, Silverback, GT and other leading brands.

Besides offering bike setups and the full complement of services, they work with clients to create custom training programmes.

“If a client needs help, we’re there to assist,” he says.

Alpha Beta Cycles is open on weekdays from 08:00 to 17:00 and on Saturdays from 08:00 to 12:30. But on Sundays they’re out cycling.

Find them on Facebook and Twitter or call 053 831 1059. •CN

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