Cyclists’ success at nationals leaves coach proud
Three of his cyclists won gold medals at the nationals in February.
Local cycling coach Jeremy Maartens had plenty to celebrate at the South African National Criterium Road and Time Trial Championships in Oudtshoorn last month.
Cyclists Casper Moodie, Robyn Lotter, and veteran Paul Lewis-Enright left the Cycling South Africa juniors coach proud after clinching gold in their categories.
Moodie won the veteran men’s 30 to 34 age group time trial, while Lotter dominated the women’s time trial and road race in the 30 to 34 category.
Maartens commended the cyclists who achieved personal best performances for their commitment and hard work.
“I’m proud. I’m happy for all the riders. Paul, Casper and Robyn won, but other guys achieved personal best times. As a coach, that’s what it is about. It’s about the person coming across the line and saying ‘It was all worth it’,” Maartens said.
It was a welcome relief for Moodie, who missed out on the top position in 2021 and last year.
“It was time to step up to gold. I was supposed to start last, as per the International Cycling Union, but was made to start first. In a time trial, you always want to chase the carrot,” he said.
After 28km of hard, competitive racing, the 35-year-old Lakefield resident, originally from Springs, won by 17 seconds.
The endurance athlete, who used to do triathlon full-time before switching to cycling, thanked Maartens for his guidance in the three years they’ve worked together.
“We started in December 2020, and two months later, at the nationals in Swellendam, I was second in my category.
“I’ve since won several races and also went to the Commonwealth Games last year. The cycling went to a different level, and opportunities have continued to come since joining Maartens.”
Lotter won the women’s 20km time trial and 102km road race.
“It’s a good feeling, especially because of the hard work and hours I dedicated to the gym,” she said.
A silver medalist last year, Lotter’s hard work in the studio with Maartens, whom she joined at the beginning of the year, paid off.
“In the last two months, I’ve seen major improvements in my riding because the coach has been keeping an eye on me. My biggest goal is the provincials and nationals next year, where I will be competing in the 35 to 39 category,” she explained.
Martens advised the cyclists to be committed, saying: “Take yourself seriously because then you’ll do things correctly. To have a shot at success, you have to commit yourself.”
Also Read: Cycling team is well on track
Also Read: Cycling association welcomes new CEO
