Myles van Musschenbroek, who hails from KwaZulu-Natal, is looking forward to a longer Amashova Durban Classic.
An extension to the route was announced last week. The race will now be over 160 km, thanks to an additional loop added to the previous 106km.
“It is a race close to my heart. I am quite familiar with the route,” Van Musschenbroek told In the Bunch today.
Myles van Musschenbroek, pictured here, is looking forward to the extended route at the Amashova Durban Classic this year. Photo: Daphney Dupré
The Amashova is scheduled to be held on October 21 this year.
“When I’m down in KZN in December I often train on that route. It is tough and there is a fair amount of climbing.”
Van Musschenbroek, who rides for ProTouch, said South Africa should have more long races on the calendar.
“For us and the younger guys coming through, it is important to bridge the gap between us and Europe.
“Longer routes will help prepare our riders to compete over greater distances and for quality riding. This is what we need as professionals.
“The big events [in South Africa] are mainly focused on mass participation, so it is good that the interests of pro riders are also taken into account.”
Van Musschenbroek believes most SA races are geared towards a specific type of rider.
“The events are not necessarily too short or too easy. But most are generally flat and the average speeds are quite high, so they suit sprinters.
“Our races should also recognise the needs of the all-round riders and climbers.
“For the long-term development of South African cycling, some things need to change.”
