Underberg – Tyronne White is expecting “a good hard race and some beautiful views” when he defends his title in the Underberg Gran Fondo gravel cycle race on Saturday.
The Team Drive Train Academy rider is not sure who will be alongside him on the start line, but the 2024 champion knows he can count on a few of KZN’s strongmen to make things hard as they tackle the tough 140km route in the foothills of the Drakensberg.
The Underberg Grand Fondo has built a reputation for two things in its short history: Spectacular views of the Drakenberg as riders meander their way through the foothills; and a tough route that challenges competitors’ skills, fitness and mental strength.
“I’m expecting a cold start,” said White this week from his training studio in Ballito. “But I’m also expecting a good hard race and some beautiful views along the way – the views of the Berg are always spectacular.”
“My training has been pretty good leading in to Underberg so I’m excited to give it my best out on route, but it will not be easy. It’s always a bit tricky to know who the competition will be, and it depends who goes to Underberg, but Kevin Benky (Benkenstein) is riding super strong at the moment so he will be one to watch.”
“Other strong riders on gravel could be Warren Moolman, Josh Rheeders, Scott Blount and Donovan Geldenhuys. If all or any of them are at the event, it will make for a very tough competition … and of course there are others as well.”
For White, the chance to cycle in the foothills of the World Heritage Site makes the event one of his favourites.
“This event is always a really nice weekend away. I enjoy that it’s on a Saturday, allowing you to make the most of the weekend in Underberg. It’s also a route with a great mix of climbing and faster riding, so it makes for some interesting racing.”
In the women’s race, Sanchia Malan, who rides for Index Property Solutions but is coached by White, will be back to defend her title, although if Bianca Haw puts in a late entry the Underberg local will be a clear favourite to claim the victory.
Riders have a choice of three event, the tough 140km, a slightly easier 90km and the short 42km. Racing is due to start at 8am with all events setting off from The Olde Duck just outside Underberg.
ENDS
