Cyclists Daryl Impey and Louis Meintjes have been included in South Africa’s team for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro in August.
Daryl Impey (front) and Louis Meintjes have been selected for Team South Africa to compete in the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in August. Photo: Darren Goddard
Impey, who rides for Orica–GreenEDGE, and Meintjes, who moved to Lampre-Merida this season, will take part in the 256.4km men’s road race in Fort Copacabana on August 6.
Cycling South Africa Road Commission director Bosseau Boshoff said that the cyclists were a good combination and the course – which includes three ascents of an 8.9km climb – would suit their abilities.
“On behalf of the Road Commission, congratulations to Daryl and Louis and we wish them the best of luck.”
In 2013 Impey became the first South African to wear the yellow jersey in the Tour de France while Meintjes made a name for himself when he placed 10th overall in last year’s Vuelta a Espana.
Cycling SA will only know how many women have qualified for the road race on June 1.
An initial squad of 24 athletes were announced by Sascoc yesterday.
