After reaping success in the gruelling Tankwa Trek last week, Marco Joubert hopes to maintain the momentum at the 80km Herald Cycle Tour MTB race in Addo this weekend.
Joubert and his Imbuko-Giant teammate Nicol Carstens were the highest-placed South African team at the Tankwa, which was packed with international riders.
After reaping success in the gruelling Tankwa Trek last week, Marco Joubert (pictured) hopes to maintain the momentum at the 80km Herald Cycle Tour MTB race this weekend. Photo: Max Sullivan
While admitting he was somewhat fatigued after the four-day race, Joubert said this was not a bad thing as they prepared for their big goal of the season, the Cape Epic next month.
“Tankwa was a great result for us and the legs are a bit fatigued, which is fine. It’s just getting worked into our training,” Joubert told In the Bunch today, referring to Sunday’s race.
“The Epic is our big goal and this weekend will be a good preparation race for that.
“But nonetheless I will still go and race my heart out. My form is still good like we showed at Tankwa. I’m sure it’ll be a good day out for us.”
Carstens is also set to take part in the Herald MTB race, as is their team manager Max Sullivan.
Joubert said depending on what opportunities arose they might work together in the race, but added that the relatively flat course would suit Carstens best.
“He’s a powerhouse on the flats, so he has a very good chance of taking the win. He’ll be a danger man for everyone,” he said, adding that DSV’s Arno du Toit would be their “man to beat”.
Racing near his home town of Port Elizabeth and having competed in the event for the last time two years ago when he finished second behind Andrew Hill, Joubert said it was important to keep a steady pace.
“The first 30km is flat so you have to save energy and try doing as little as possible until the bottom of Zuurberg Pass, where the racing will only begin.
“It can get lonely out there, but you need to save yourself for the last bit. That’s where you can really make up time and get a gap.”
