Cape Town - A month after winning the South African Road Championships, three young cyclists are set to challenge their pedalling skills at the world’s largest individually timed cycle race, the Cape Town Cycle Tour.
The champions, who are from the Kinetic Cycling Club in Ravensmead, are ready to face off against seasoned riders this Sunday.
Matthew Fortuin, 15, who used to cycle in a tandem with his father won his category at the championships last month.
“I never thought cycling would be in my life, I always thought I would be a long-distance runner.
“After winning my category I was left speechless because I never thought that I would stand on the podium. This has to be my greatest achievement thus far.”
Matthew will be participating in his third Cycle Tour, stating that his first Tour was easy as his main competitor was his father.
“The second one was a bit hectic, but I am hoping to go under three hours for this year’s event,” he said.
His younger sister, Mia, 12, was inspired by her brother to win her category at the championships.
“Being a female cyclist feels great, apart from the pressure one receives from the boys. I work very hard to to beat them. It is a bit harder for girls because there are not many females in the sport.”
She added that winning the championships was a great feat for her, as she went up against stiff competition.
Jason Bruintjies, 14, started cycling three years ago and has never looked back. He hopes to one day become a professional cyclist. “Cycling was never competitive for me. I had to grow in the sport and it started being a great part of my life.”
Bruintjies underwent extensive training for the championships, which started last October, and fortunately for him it all paid off.
“When I crossed the line, I looked back just to double check that I had won. It was an amazing feeling. I was shocked even though I worked hard, I never thought I would win.”
Bruintjies will be participating in his second Cycle Tour and is hoping for a time of 3 hours 15 minutes.
“I’m lucky to have participated in the SA road championships because that served as my training for the Cycle Tour.”
All three champions are thankful to their coaches Glen Bonthuis and Serena van Schalkwyk for their achievements.
Chairman of Kinetics Cycling Club, O’Ryan Bruintjies said he was proud of the three riders on their amazing feats.