Watch out for us says Van der Walt

Team Alfa Bodyworks/Giant will be aiming for the top step of the podium when they take to the start line of this year’s Herald Cycle Tour road race on Sunday morning. This was said by Alfa rider Hannes van der Walt, who expressed his excitement at being able to once again take part in one of the most popular races on the cycling calendar.

Featuring the 106km Coastal Classic as well as the 55km Pursuit, riders of all ages and skill levels will have their skills tested on the breathtaking course. Born in Port Elizabeth, but now based in Cape Town, Van der Walt said he and the rest of the team were ready to put their intense training and preparations to the test. “We did not win last year, so it was not ideal for us as a team, but we have an Olympic sprinter, Bernard Esterhuizen, in our team, so if we can get him to the line I think we would have a good chance of coming out on top,” Van der Walt said. With national U23 time trial champion Byron Munton also in their ranks, Van der Walt said the team had all the necessary tools to execute a racewinning performance. “We are all ready for the c h a l l e n g e. “With the likes of Munton, Esterhuizen and others, in the team, I know we can put on a good race and perhaps even finish on the top step at the end of the 106km course. ““It also depends on who our opponents will be. “We don’t know who is taking part from the other teams, so we just need to do our best,” he said.

Van der Walt said the direction of the wind could be a factor as it could force teams to change their tactics. “If it’s a headwind at Maitlands, I think it could see a sprint finish with a big group, but if it is a tailwind, then the group could split and only a few guys might find themselves in the sprint for the finish line. “We actually prefer windier conditions because it really exposes the stronger riders. “There is no hiding in the bunch, so we are really looking forward to the race,” Asked what made this one of the best races on the calendar, he said: “As a team we have been to this event for a number of years, it is one of the oldest races in the country. “The scenery is amazing and there are some great views of the coast. “The course is incredible with a mixture of tough and slightly easier sections, so it will test all of the cyclists’ capabilities. “I think a lot of riders would agree, because everything about this event is so well co - o r d i n at e d . “I think many riders will say the same thing because the organisers really think of every way to make sure the competitors are well taken care of.”

Collection of race packs will take place from today from 9am to 7pm at the Lifesaving Club, Pollok Beach, as well as tomorrow from 9am to 1pm.