South African Ryan Gibbons, who is currently competing in the BinckBank Tour in Belgium, feels this international race is good preparation for the upcoming African Games in Morocco.
The 25-year-old Dimension Data rider, who is currently 25th overall in the seven-stage event that ends on Sunday, said the terrain was similar to what the Games road-race course would be like.
“Hopefully this will get me ready and condition me well for the Games.
South African Ryan Gibbons is gearing up for his first African Games, which takes place in Morocco from next week. Photo: Stiehl Photography
“BinckBank is always a crazy race – very fast and dangerous with a lot of rain, wind and narrow roads.
“The level and quality of the field is very high here with it being a world tour race and a lot of the field having come from the Tour de France.”
Gibbons, who will be participating in his first Games, told In the Bunch it was very different racing in Africa so it was hard to know what to expect.
“There’s generally no control and it often comes down to luck on the day.
“I’m feeling pretty strong at the moment and I’m confident I and the rest of the SA team will be able to achieve good results.
“It’s always an honour representing your country and I’m grateful for the call-up.”
Gibbons will compete in the team time-trial on August 24, individual time-trial on the 26th and the road race on the 29th.
“As a nation I’d assume we are expecting three golds. I’d personally be happy to be on the podium in each event.
“It will be my first time in Morocco so I’m looking forward to experiencing what the country has to offer.”
Gibbons, who placed second in the road race at this year’s national road champs and third in the time-trial at the African Road Champs, felt this event was important as there were a lot of UCI points up for grabs.
“A win in the road race is nearly the same amount of points as winning a lesser one-day classic, such as Ride-London.
“It’s a great opportunity to collect some points and at the same time achieve a medal for your nation.”
