Stefan de Bod, who won the under-23 time-trial in last year’s South Africa National Road Championships, will be going all out to defend his title in Oudtshoorn at 2pm today.
Team Dimension Data’s De Bod, who was also beaten on the line by Reinhardt Janse van Rensburg in last year’s elite road race, said they had put in the hard yards to prepare for the three 14.6km-lap circuit.
“Early yesterday morning we examined the route,” he told In the Bunch. “We practised on the corners and technical sections, and we looked at how to pace ourselves throughout.
“It is important to know where we could go harder, save energy and tuck in to avoid errors,” he added.
Stefan de Bod, pictured here at the Tour Du Rwanda last year, is prepared for the elite time-trial at the SA National Road Champs today. Photo: Warren Elsom
The DiData rider feels, however, that the nature of the route may not suit him. “It’s very flat, so with my weight it is probably not the most suitable route.”
But he said he would not allow that to limit his chances. “I believe that if I have a really good day, then anything is possible. I might walk away with the elite time-trial title. I will be happy with that.
“I have to be realistic though. I am only 21 years old and Daryl [Impey] is a very experienced professional, so I will be up against it.
“It will be interesting to see how it turns out,” De Bod added.
De Bod, although still in the U23 category, came second in the elite categories both last year and in 2016.
“I want to go for gold this year,” he said. “There isn’t too much pressure on me as an underdog. Most people will be expecting Daryl to win.
“It will be really great to produce my personal best power output and have a solid ride. I’m hoping for the best.
