Taking part in the UCI World Cycling Tour in Ljubljana, Slovenia from August 28 to August 31, cycling veteran, Gwyn Pine was ‘gutted’ he was placed fourth in the time trial; a race he was sure he would win.
“Slovenia really embraced the event in my opinion. Not being on the podium was the only downfall to an otherwise amazing event,” said Mr Pine.
Cyclists from 38 countries competed in the tour, with 51 cyclists battling in out in Mr Pine’s 50+ age group. Of the 51 cyclists, there was only one other South African. “It’s the first time I have cycled in Federation Colours. I have never been more proud to wear the South Africa flag on my chest,” said Mr Pine proudly.
Mr Pine competed in the 18.6km time trial on August 28. “There were 12 seconds between fourth and third place. I was a mere 16 seconds from second. Not getting a medal was a big disappointment, but to miss third place by only 12 seconds is an achievement in itself,” continued Mr Pine.
In the gruelling 156km road race on August 31, Mr Pine went head to head with 157 top cyclists. Mr Pine admitted he had a good race, despite competing solely for the experience. He heard from a friend he was placed 52nd, but did not see the results for himself.
“I trained and made sacrifices like never before; if I didn’t think I could compete, I wouldn’t have gone,” said Mr Pine.
Mr Pine managed to lose a total of 9kgs before heading off to Slovenia, despite being a lot healthier than most men and women his age. “It’s the lightest I’ve been in eight years. To be ‘first place’ competitive, I will have to lose a further 4kgs.”
Mr Pine thanked his family, friends and local businesses who made it possible for him to compete on the world stage.
“I received a lot of generous donations. DHL Harrismith agreed to transport my bicycles to Slovenia and back free of charge. If I had to pay for it out of my own pocket, I would have had to fork out R31 000!” exclaimed Mr Pine.
The cycling powerhouse will compete in the Tsogo Sun Amashova Durban Classic race on October 12 and looks forward to preparing for next year’s world championships.
In a final word of advice, Mr Pine said, “Age is really just a number when it comes to cycling. It took me 20 years to make it to the overseas world championships, but I made it nonetheless. Don’t let people distract and spoil your dreams.”
