Stefan de Bod was satisfied with his under-23 time-trial victory at the SA National Road Championships in Oudtshoorn yesterday.
The route, said De Bod, was not suited to his style of riding, but to come away on top in his category and place second overall behind Daryl Impey was “special”.
“I’m happy with my performance,” De Bod told In the Bunch today. “I’m really happy to start the year off with the victory.
“The route wasn’t the best for me. I did the best I could and I think it turned out well.”
Stefan de Bod, pictured here, reaped valuable experience from his time-trial victory at the SA National Road Championships time-trial yesterday. Photo: Into Cycling
He prepared himself well for the extreme heat yesterday, De Bod added. “I trained in the heat before the time-trial, but just without the long-sleeve skin suit and the helmet.
“Wearing the proper kit in the time-trial helped a lot; it made it easier to cope in the heat.”
De Bod kept a consistent pace throughout the three 14.6km-lap circuit. “I started with a good pace and I maintained that speed throughout; my power didn’t drop,” he said.
“The heat was getting to me on the last lap, but I still kept on pushing. My heart rate went up but my power stayed the same, which was a good outcome.
“Every time-trial I do I learn something new, so I feel like I’m gaining valuable experience.”
The time-trial, De Bod said, was an important platform to measure his progress for the year ahead.
“It was important for me to see where I am at compared to previous years. It is mainly about developing my performances.
“My focus is to do the best at the SA Champs that I can, especially for when I go back to Europe afterwards.
“I hope to get a few good results over there and possibly get into the WorldTour team next season in my first elite year.
“I’m thoroughly looking forward to the 155km road race on Saturday,” he added.
