UJ cycling manager Karel Mouton has sung praises of Froome, describing him as a very modest, mild mannered and shy student.
“He is very determined and followed advice and training suggestions to the letter,” said Mouton.
Froome, who races for British professional outfit Team Sky on the UCI World Tour, is still an inspiration to the current team of UJ cyclists.
The Kenyan-born roadie, who was educated at UJ, won the green points jersey at the 2005 student championships in Cape Town.
He won the Critérium du Dauphiné earlier this month.
Froome has emerged as a major contender for Le Tour having finished runner-up to compatriot Bradley Wiggins last year.
Mouton said, “During his student years, there was seldom an occasion when I found him at home when I called. He was always alone on his bike around Hekpoort, Randfontein, Hartbeespoort Dam or Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve and he taught himself to climb mountains.”
In 2007 the all-rounder put his studies on hold in 2007 to pursue a pro racing career. Mouton said Froome could still be found riding the highways of Gauteng during his annual Christmas visit.
The tour features an 84.4km road stage and 10km time-trial on the opening day, the 120km queen stage on day two and a 2.4km hill climb time-trial and criterium on the final day.
