The ProTouch Continental team have announced their five-man team for the Tour du Rwanda from February 24 to March 3.
The gruelling eight-day tour last year served as the team’s first stepping-stone in their quest to gain Continental status.
James Fourie was their highest-placed rider, finishing 15th overall. The 26-year-old, who said the side as a whole exceeded their expectations at the tour, was selected again to represent the team.
James Fourie was the highest-placed South African to finish the Tour du Rwanda last year, placing 15th overall. Photo: ProTouch Sports
Calvin Beneke has again been included in the team as a guest rider.
Rohan du Plooy was added to the fold after producing superb results in another African tour, the Tropical Amissa Bongo, a couple of weeks ago, racking up five top-10 finishes and placing 11th overall.
Sprinter’s jersey winner at the Gabonese tour Jayde Julius has also been included.
The team will come up against some stiff competition in Rwanda, including WorldTour side Astana Pro and four pro-Continental teams, three other Continental outfits and six national African teams.
The national under-23 French team will also take part in the event, tagged “Africa’s toughest tour”.
The team:
Jayde Julius
Rohan du Plooy
James Fourie
Calvin Beneke
Mornay van Heerden
