Sarah Hill, who won the mixed race alongside Nicol Carstens at last year’s Tankwa Trek, has switched to the women’s category for the mountain-bike race starting in Ceres today.
Hill will tackle the four-day stage race with Galileo Risk-LIV teammate Theresa Ralph.
“Nicol and I decided we wanted to race in our own categories for the UCI points and our individual preparations for the Cape Epic,” said Hill.
Sarah Hill (right), who won the mixed race at last year’s Tankwa Trek, will pair up with Theresa Ralph for the four-stage mountain bike race starting in Ceres today. Photo: Ewald Sadie
Carstens will pair up with Marco Joubert.
Hill felt it would be a lot different racing in the women’s category this year.
“I think there will be components of it that will be easier than racing mixed because then the woman is very much a rag doll, so we’re always either holding on or getting pushed as we’re just not as strong, especially on the climbs.
“Saying that though, the women’s field is incredibly competitive and it’s going to be different because it’s tactical. Theresa and I will share the load a lot better as I’ve worked super hard in training.”
Hill added that she felt more prepared and confident, having done the race once before. She could now anticipate how things would unfold each day.
“I have a better understanding of the terrain, heat and type of climbs. I understand how hard that Merino Monster is, so at least I can mentally prepare for it a bit better.”
She said one of their goals for the Tankwa was to find their groove again as a team because they had not raced together yet this year.
“One of our biggest strengths is how well we work together. Of course we want to go as fast as possible, but we’re going to feel each other out with our strengths.
“I believe I have a bit more power now so I can contribute more towards the flat sections, climbing and trying to hold the pace.”
Hill added that they had not thought of any position or result to aim for, but felt the event would be closely contested.
The race kicks off with a 29km time-trial and the pair said they would go “super hard” to achieve a good start.
“We will use it as a brilliant opener for the three days to follow. We’re aware of how difficult the next three days are going to be so the idea is not to blow yourself up on day one, especially because of the big climbing to come.”
The time-trial is followed by stages of 83km, 87km and 89km.
“The overall strategy for us is to be as consistent as possible and to pace ourselves on that absolute limit, but at the same time know we have one more day to follow.
“That last day we’re going to give it our all and it depends if we’re with groups or without, but we’re really going to give it a good go.”
Hill said the large international field excited her and she looked forward to racing with her teammate.
“Having a teammate changes any nerves you might have. I feel a lot more in control because we’re sharing that load together and I have the support of Theresa with every pedal stroke of the way.
“We are the dark horses and no one really knows where we are, but we’re always there. We’re ready to shine.”
