Race day had finally arrived! We were taking place in the Kamptal Klassik Trophy race. In other words it was their national cross-country race.

The course was simple with two major climbs and two descents. There wasn’t anything technical to it, it was going to test who had the legs up the climbs at the end of the day.

There was no U23 category and therefore we were put with the Elite women, making it a big and strong field.

                                                  Technical zone, with BMC dominating

 

I was nervous on the day but very excited to race. To get the most experience I could while racing international and with a big group of talent.

On the start line there were 40 Elite women lined up to take on the battle. We were ready to rock & roll! The race consisted of a start loop plus 4 laps. The start loop is to separate the bunch of riders, which it did just that. As we started straight up a climb and came straight back down to start our first lap. It was going to be a tough race with approximately 310m of climbing each lap.

I felt strong during the race giving it my very best. The level of talent was quite high but was a great experience to continually push oneself to better my position each lap. It was great to have a lot of competition too.

The support from the spectators on the course was unbelievable. Making you squeeze that extra bit of power up those hills.  Was truly fantastic!! At the end it was a good race. I came 31^st in the Elite women and if one counted the U23 women, I came 14^th. I was happy with my result and felt good while racing.

A huge well done to the rest of my BMC teammates having great rides; Candice Neethling coming 14^th in Elite women and 3rd in U23, Savannah Vosloo came 6^th in the junior women, Jaco Pelser coming 22^nd in the junior men and a great ride from Kyle Dorkin coming 3^rd in the junior men riding for Ellsworth SA. Very impressive riding from all.

The next race that we will be taking part in is taking place in Switzerland, which is the first leg of the Swiss cup. Where BMC is a sponsor towards the race. Pretty excited!!!

 

Until next time have a great day!

xxx