Schoeman counting on her team for Sunday

PORT Elizabeth’s Anriette Schoeman will be able to count on team support in her quest for a second 947 Cycle Challenge title after being named in Team Bestmed-ASG’s squad for Sunday’s race in Johannesburg.

Schoeman, 39, who usually competes as a solo rider under the Bestmed banner, said she was delighted to be linking up with the team for one of the country’s premier road classics.

Schoeman, who won the 947 Mountain Bike Challenge at the weekend, said: “The support from Bestmed is incredible.

“I have been with them for three years now and their support through good and bad times has been at the next level.”

Facing a strong field of national and international riders, Schoeman said team cohesion would be essential to give them a chance of victory in the 94.7km race.

“The aim for the whole team will be to stick together and to look after each other in the last third of the race so that we can possibly get someone in a break or in the sprint.”

Having won in 2008, she said she was always motivated to do well in the high-profile race.

“This event provides good coverage for the brands that support me, so my goals are always to do well and to get onto the podium if possible.”

As a previous champion, Schoeman is well qualified to assess the challenges.

“It’s a hard route, so you need to come into the race prepared and try to peak at the right time.

“With it coming so late in the season, there is always the possibility of being tired or injured.”

The multiple former national road champion rated the Cycle Challenge as one of the best races to win.

“It has always been one of my special races and it’s the best feeling in the world to end your season on a high by winning or getting a podium at the 947.”

Schoeman said she had done several races in the build-up to this year’s event, with the recent mountain bike race helping her to cope better with the effects of racing at altitude.

“I do mountain biking to complement my road racing and I have enjoyed the fresh mental approach. But my first love and focus will always be the road.”

Despite many successes over two decades, Schoeman remains motivated to do as well as she can.

“I ride my bike because I love it and I find that reason enough to continue competing.

“I’m driven by good results and as long as I can keep up I will definitely keep trying.

“As you get older you lose some of your natural ability but gain other benefits, and you have to adjust your riding style and training accordingly.”