South African Chris Jooste managed to finish 10th overall in the Tour of Quanzhou Bay at the weekend even though he had no idea what to expect during the three-stage road race in China.
“It’s quite a good feeling,” said Jooste, who was placed 12th, 11th and then 10th overall after each successive stage.
“Coming here not knowing what to expect and then the racing being super flat and fast – which did not really favour my abilities – was stressful, but the team made it a lot easier and more manageable [for me].”
Chris Jooste (second to the right) was the highest place South African in the Tour of Quanzhou Bay in China. Photo: ProTouch
The 24-year-old added that the fast racing suited the bigger classic racers.
“It was still hard and at the end of the day we all have to pedal with our legs – it made it really tough.”
Jooste said the 101.4km first stage, in which he finished ninth, was particularly taxing and created big gaps in the general classification.
“The wind was absolutely insane, but I managed to be in the winning split and finished within a few seconds of the winner on the day.”
He said the following two stages, which covered 108.5km and 112.6km respectively and in which he placed 14th and 15th, were all about staying safe, gaining a few seconds to stay in the top-10 overall and securing some UCI points.
“That was where the team made a big difference by really supporting me 100 per cent and I’m thankful for that.”
Jooste said as the route did not suit him they made do with what they had and capitalised on the time splits that happened on day one.
“My highlight for sure was our teamwork and the joint effort everyone showed for the goal of scoring some UCI points.”
He added that he learnt a lot, as he always did when racing on a new circuit and in new races.
“For sure I’ll back myself more for more opportunities on some different types of courses.”
Jooste, who usually rides for the Luso ACDC Pro Cycling Team, joined ProTouch for this challenge.
“The team have had a hard and busy season, so some of their riders have taken a rest period. That was why there were spots available for this race.
“I’m really grateful to them for this opportunity.
“Racing in Asia has opened my eyes to new challenges and I believe you should always try to spread your wings and try and learn as far as you go.”
Next, Jooste flies back to SA for the 947 Ride Joburg, before tackling the Double Century with the Active Bodies team.
