It’s been almost a year since South Africa’s Stefan de Bod made his WorldTour debut for NTT Pro Cycling at the Tour of Turkey, and he has learnt some valuable lessons along the way.
It’s been nearly a year since Stefan de Bod made his WorldTour debut for NTT Pro Cycling. Photo: Hikari Media
“Life and cycling is a roller-coaster ride but hard work eventually does pay off,” said the 23-year-old, who has been racing internationally since 2016.
“You get more mature in racing through the years.
“Being patient, not panicking and saving energy are also important skills to have in the sport,” said De Bod, who is originally from Worcester.
Some of his top results last year include winning the time-trial at the African Road Championships, claiming silver and bronze respectively in the time-trial and road race at nationals, as well as placing third overall in the Tour of Austria.
Thus far this year he has finished second in the time-trial at nationals.
“The best part has been signing with Africa’s team and having the opportunity to compete in the biggest races in the world.
“My ultimate goal is a stage win in one of the Grand Tours, especially the Tour de France,” said De Bod, who is currently in Spain.
“We’re not allowed to train outdoors [due to coronavirus restrictions], so I’ve been on Zwift two sessions a day, every day.”
De Bod said he had always had a passion for the sport, but did not think he would become a professional until 2015.
“Then the dream to become professional started and I started to work hard towards that.”
Apart from the highlights, he had also faced challenges and obstacles.
“One of these is definitely regarding visas and residency. Also being away from family and friends most of the time in the last couple of years.
“Eventually you make your own life in Europe and it becomes ‘home’.
“I do miss though having a regular braai and traditional food. What I don’t miss is feeling unsafe when I go out for a training ride.”
De Bod also had some advice for those who looked up to him and also wanted to achieve success internationally.
“It’s not a straight line to success. There are a lot of ups and downs.
“It’s important to stay positive and work hard. You sacrifice a lot to get to the top.”
