Juanita Venter decided at the end of last year not to participate in this year’s SA National Road Championships, saying the great results she achieved in 2019 meant she could go out on a high.
Juanita Venter decided at the end of last year not to participate in this year’s SA National Road Championships. Photo: Supplied
“I can honestly say that I accomplished all the goals I had in cycling – so no regrets, only gratitude,” said Venter, who will not ride for a team, but still compete in the elite category at selected events this year.
Last year the 43-year-old set the national road race on fire when she orchestrated a solo breakaway that lasted nearly 100km. She ultimately finished just under two minutes behind winner Ashleigh Moolman Pasio.
Venter also won the bronze medal in the individual time-trial, finishing just over a minute behind first-placed Liezel Jordaan.
“Although I’m in pretty good racing shape I decided at the end of 2019 to give up my spot in Cycle Nation for new younger riders who can benefit from the support and exposure.
“I would also like to pursue other interests and just enjoy the fun side of cycling. And besides, turning 44 this year it might be a good time to end a successful career on a high note.
“These interests include travelling, leisure mountain biking, running and art – I studied textile design and would like to explore my options in that.”
So the key factors that influenced her decision were to give the new generation of women cyclists an opportunity in a team, dealing with the pressure of having to keep performing at the same level as in 2019, and the very real commitment required in terms of planning weekends away, especially during racing season.
“Every serious cyclist would know that it is impossible to go away for a weekend without a bicycle. Another factor is spending time with family and friends.
“I have a full-time job and I’m so grateful to Cycling J&J for their understanding and support of my cycling the last five years.”
Venter will still race in events in the elite category and compete in a few tandem events with Jackie van Eeden.
“I will plan some events on the local racing scene as soon as I’ve finalised working commitments. I’ll continue to race some events seriously, especially our local ones in Pretoria.
“In 2018 I did take a short break because I had an operation and I found it difficult to make a comeback – that would be the reason that I won’t completely stop racing.
“You are never too old to be your best. I achieved all my top results after 40.”
With it being an Olympic year, Venter said this did not affect her decision.
“As far as I know we have two spots allocated to SA ladies. In all honesty I never pursued that dream, and I fully support the women who do.
“The commitment to live and race in Europe is enormous. It takes a lot of sacrifice and dedication. So no, it didn’t influence my decision at all.”
