Reynard Butler and Kim le Court will be back to defend their titles when the East Rand Classic road cycle race takes place in Kempton Park in Johannesburg next weekend.
The popular feature event over 98km, formerly known as the Emperors Palace Classic, will be held on Sunday, April 28, and offers an ideal opportunity for the sprint specialists to show their prowess.
Butler (ProTouch) won his first title in the event last year when he outsprinted Ryan Harris for the line, while Le Court will be aiming for a hat-trick of victories.
Reynard Butler celebrates his victory at last year’s Emperors Palace Classic. Now named the East Rand Classic, the ProTouch rider will be back to defend his title. Photo: Jetline Action Photography
The 31-year-old Butler has had a few health issues this year and said this had disrupted his programme. But he wants to use the East Rand Classic to get back on track.
“Fortunately, the team has been doing really well and we will obviously be aiming for the top spot next week,” he said.
“It’s always good to get a win under the belt because that boosts your confidence, and with the guys in good form we are positive about a good outcome.”
Butler acknowledged they would have to be on point with their tactics due the fast nature of the course.
“There are one or two sections of the course where the wind can affect things, but most of the teams know what goes down on the day and it usually does come down to a bunch sprint.”
Le Court, riding for Demacon MaxWax Racing, wants to continue a good season in which she has consistently achieved places on the podium.
“It has been a pretty good start and I definitely want to continue my stretch of getting onto the podium,” said the Cape Town Cycle Tour runner-up.
“That is always an achievement and we obviously want to keep that going.”
She said the team had taken a break since the Cape Town Cycle Tour last month, but that they would be ready for next week’s challenge.
“We will get together next week and discuss our strategy for the event,” said Le Court.
The East Rand Classic, which has a new start and finish venue at the Acsa parkade adjacent to the OR Tambo International airport, also offers a 48km road option, while the 50km and 25km mountain-bike events will take place on April 27.
Late online entries close at midnight on Monday, April 22.
