Ultra-endurance rider Dion Guy is aiming for more success when he tackles the 24-hour Pretoria Boys High School MTB Relay Challenge on Saturday.
Last year was the first time the 47-year-old competed in the six-hour MTB race, one of several classes at the event, which he won by two laps.
The aim is to complete as many 6km laps as possible, whether in six hours or 24 hours. Both races can be ridden individually or as relays in teams of two, four, six or eight.
Dion Guy on his way to breaking the course record at this year’s Trans Xhariep ultra-endurance race. Photo: Facebook/@TransXhariep
“If the legs feel good then I’ll see if I can extend the intended number of laps I plan to do,” said Guy, who won this year’s 315km Trans Xhariep when he set a new course record.
Guy said these types of distance races, which consist of laps completed within a specific time period, were all about not keeping still.
“The more you stop and the longer you take the greater the distance between yourself and the next competitor.
“The six-hour race is a little more unique where you still need to focus on a higher effort and pace from the beginning. So it’s not only about stopping but also about keeping a constant tempo from the beginning,” said Guy, who won last year’s event by completing 22 laps in 6:11:39.
He said many people battled with a lap format, but he enjoyed it.
“It’s good in that you know what’s coming up and how to tackle any obstacles ahead. So it allows you to become a little more relaxed in your approach.
“The main strategy is just to try and keep the laps consistent and not really worry about anyone else; just focus on keeping a consistent pace.”
The Benoni resident said as it was lap format there was a lot more interaction between the competitors and supporters, which was great.
“You always know there’s food and spares, if needed, around the corner.”
In terms of form he was probably at the same point as last year, except for some fatigue from racing the Silk Road Mountain Race in Kyrgyzstan, Central Asia, on August 17.
“I’m feeling good and looking forward to the event. It’s well organised, features a great track and is generally a good day out with mates.”
