Durban’s Joanna van de Winkel will be aiming for a repeat double when she tackles two events at the aQuellé Tour Durban weekend on April 20 and 21 – but she is still not yet sure which two races she will take part in.
The introduction of a gravel race at this year’s event, for the first time, means the versatile rider has to make a decision regarding that or the mountain bike event for Saturday’s off-road action.
“I still have to choose between the mountain bike and gravel,” said Van de Winkel this week. “I might still choose the gravel on Saturday and obviously will be in the road race on Sunday.
The talented veteran of the South African road racing scene is certain she wants to step twice on the podium.
“I think the mountain bike is always a little bit more challenging for me – depending if Francis Janse van Rensburg, Hayley Smith or Tyler Jacobs enter because my technical skills aren’t as good as theirs. I’ve put in the training for the road racing, so I’m hoping that will hold me in good stead to at least be strong enough, and the MTB race is not a super technical course.”
For the 2012 Olympic team member, the beauty of the route and the atmosphere of the weekend make the event a must-do for her and her family.
“It’s a beautiful race along the coast of KZN. It’s also nice to have the roads to ourselves with full closure for a change,” said Van de Winkel.
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