28 Jan 2013

Victor Potgieter outclassed his more experienced rivals in the closely contested Wharic Cycling road race challenge over the weekend.

Veteran cyclist and defending champion, Neville Van Zyl was shown a clean pair of heels as he failed to even make the grade to the first five riders to touch the finish line.

Potgieter clocked an impressive 3:04:04 for the entire 108 kilometres two loop race.

Coming hot on his heels was talented Zimbabwean youngster, Bright Chipongo and Hezekiah Sibanda of Gaborone Cycling Club in the third spot.

It was sweet revenge for Potgieter as he was disqualified last year after a puncher ruined his ambitions. Chipongo was making his first appearance at the Wharic challenge. He also participated in a race organised by Tsela Riders last November.

The current Zimbabwe national champion decried a flat tyre and soaring temperatures as his main undoing on Sunday morning. He however used his technique and versatility to lead the pack in steep terrains along the Mmankgodi Hill. He also participated in the Africa continental championships in Rwanda and Eretria.

Jwaneng Cycling Club rider, Thapelo Sebonego improved from his last year’s fourth position to third position in 3: 04:10.

He also took part in the annual Swaziland Siteki cycling challenge where he emerged on position four in sprint.

The three cyclists should have celebrated the absence of cycling sensation Bernando Ayuso who is reportedly in Spain taking part in international challenges.

In the men’s 54km race, Tiroyaone Nkakanyane clocked 1:37:00 (one hour 37 minutes) to emerge victorious while in the ladies 108km race, Nadine Mynhardt was the overall winner in 3:38:00 (three hours 38 minutes).

Overall, the time recorded by riders last year was better than what they did over the weekend.

Kyle Poppleton, Van Zyl and Sean McCormick all finished last year’s race in 2:00:53 (2 hours 53 seconds) .

Despite a few injuries which resulted in some riders being admitted at the hospital, GCC chairperson and also one of the organisers, Peter Sekwale was impressed by the growth of the race which attracted participants from as far as Swaziland and Zimbabwe.  ENDS