Cycling South Africa has announced its team for the African Championships to be held in Egypt from March 2 to 6. Photo: Supplied
Kent Main is looking forward to supporting “good friend” Ryan Gibbons at next month’s African Continental Road Championship in Egypt.
The duo were named in the South African team for the championships set to take place from March 2 to 6 in Cairo.
Main was honest enough to admit when speaking to In the Bunch that the road race wasn’t necessarily suited to a rider like him.
“I’m realistic enough to say that the road race isn’t set out for a rider like me, so I’m more than happy to work for someone to ensure SA wins the road race,” Main admitted.
That “someone” is likely to be Gibbons.
Gibbons is the reigning SA national road champion and has also tasted success at previous African championships.
In 2013 Gibbons was part of the SA time-trial team which won the bronze medal and he also finished third in the individual time-trial in 2019.
Main was excited at catching up with Gibbons who recently signed a two-year contract with WorldTour outfit UAE Team Emirates.
“I’m good friends with Ryan and it will be good to see him again!
“My motivation is high and I’m excited to race with what looks like a really strong team all-round.
“I’ve ridden with many of the guys and they’re all pretty good bike riders so I’m confident that we will put together a top performance.
“Ryan brings a lot of experience to our team and he will definitely be the man to look to get across the line first – if all things go according to plan!” Main concluded.
Organisers of this year’s African championships have mapped out a 13km circuit which riders will complete as many times as the overall race distance dictates.
The men’s road race on Saturday, March 6, will cover 156km (12 laps).
