Calvin Beneke is “hungry” to get a top result at the Tour de Windhoek, which starts in Namibia tomorrow, despite having recently been ill.
Beneke finished second overall in the race last year behind his then BCX teammate Steven van Heerden, who aims to defend his title this season.
Calvin Beneke (front) is “hungry” to get a top result at the Tour de Windhoek, which starts in Namibia tomorrow, despite having recently been ill. Photo: Anthony Grote Photography
Riding for Luso AC/DC Dynamics this time round Beneke, although unsure of his form, said he planned to do well.
“I’ve been sick with bronchitis over the last two weeks so I have to be realistic,” Beneke told In the Bunch today.
“I’ve only just recovered and started getting back into training again so I’m not entirely sure how I will perform.
“But I’m still hungry and I want to get a good result. I will have to play the race by ear and if I do get something out of it then I will be really happy.
“At this point it is more about me getting back to 100 per cent again.”
Beneke anticipates an “interesting battle” throughout the race this weekend, especially now that he is part of a different set-up.
He will be teamed up with Casper Kruger and Andrew Edwards, who managed to capture his first professional win on the queen stage of the Tour de Limpopo in April.
“Last year I managed to finish second with BCX behind my own teammate, so this year it will be different racing for a different team.
“I will be able to rely on my own ability to go for the win while staying realistic [knowing] that I have been ill.
“There will be a bit of rivalry and more competitive racing against BCX, seeing as we won’t be racing together this time. It will be an interesting battle.”
Beneke expects to take on a leadership role on the tour. “Me being the more experienced and older guy I will generally be the leader.
“But everyone will have their different roles and opportunities to make something of this tour.
“We will take it day by day and we would obviously like to get a result, but it will be important to wait for the correct opportunities and show our hunger.”
The race comprises flat and hilly road races, a team time-trial as well as a criterium.
Beneke said it would not suit just one type of rider or team, but the three of them were cautiously optimistic ahead of the race.
“It is a typical modern tour that has all aspects of racing,” he said. “It should show the full dynamics of a team event and it is a well-rounded race.
“I wouldn’t say we’re necessarily confident, but we are positive. When the positivity is up and we’re motivated then that is normally a good sign.
“We’re always learning with every event we take part in and we’re just focused on giving it our best.”
