David Maree will work towards his team, Enza/DNS Sports, achieving their third win in a row at the three-day Tour de Windhoek which takes place in and around the Namibian capital from today.
Maree was also runner-up last year, finishing 24 seconds behind winner and teammate Nolan Hoffman.
“I’d like the team to defend our title. We have won for the last two years and would like to get number three.
“This year we’re a bit underpowered so even though we’re the defending champs we’re actually the underdogs,” said Maree.
David Maree, who finished second last year, will be back on the start line at the Tour de Windhoek which takes place in and around the Namibian capital from today. Photo: Sufiyan Malik (PPS for Professionals)
He added that due to their teammate Steven van Heerden being unable to compete it would be hard to compete being an outnumbered team.
“Most of the other big teams will be there in full force, so it will be tough.
“We’ll have to box smart if we want overall honours.”
Maree added that with their numbers they would have to work together closely and could not really race each other.
“Nolan and I have been racing together for 10 years now so we have a good idea of how one another races.
“Between Steve, Nolan and myself we don’t really ever go into racing with a plan set in stone.
“We are all very good at reading the race and knowing exactly what the other one is thinking.”
The 30-year-old felt the route did not suit him perfectly but due to the racing always being hard it played to his strengths.
“The first and last stages I think will be the big ones for the general classification outcome.
“I believe the route has changed quite a bit, but I have a very good idea of the roads around Windhoek now.
“I feel the altitude plays in my favour as well because I feel I adapt well to the higher altitude.”
Maree said the event was important for him as it was good preparation for the last two months of the season. It was also a good test of his intensity.
“Amashova and 947 are the two big races I have left and those will be my focus points.
“Everybody who knows me knows that every race I do I race to win and nothing less. The size of the race doesn’t matter. I just love racing my bike.”
