Lonehill cyclist wins Cape Argus Cycle Tour 80 to 84 category
Karel Dolak proves age is just a number, as shown by his outstanding cycling achievement at the Cape Argus Cycle Tour.
After months of rehabilitation and uncertainty, Karel Dolak, a talented cyclist from Lonehill, emerged victorious at the Cape Argus Cycle Tour. Despite a tumultuous year, marred by injuries, Dolak is proud of his recent achievement.
Prior to the tour, Dolak had only just begun to regain strength, with limited training consisting of riding three to four times a week in the Cradle of Mankind. He said, even though he faced these challenges, his determination and experience paid off, as he successfully navigated the grueling 109km route.
“After my injuries at The Cycling World Championships in Denmark in September last year, I was unable to push myself, or ride hard at all. Only the last three to four weeks, did I start feeling better.
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“My training is only to ride three or four times a week in the Cradle of Mankind. In the race, I did not know how I would do after my injuries. So, I stayed, most of the time, at the back of the group, but when someone in front of me could not follow the wheel in front of him, I had to chase to get back to the group.”
The Cape Argus Cycle Tour, known for being the largest mass participation cycling race globally, attracted thousands of participants. This year’s event took place on March 9, with cyclists tackling the scenic, yet demanding, route, which wound its way through Cape Town’s picturesque landscape.
Dolak became the fasted in the 80 to 84 category. He said it was a ‘big surprise’, when asked how he feels.
“I have only done this race once before, and I think it was 10 years ago, but I did know what to expect. This year, I didn’t compete in the South African Cycling Championship, due to my injuries, but next year, I’ll enter again, and see what happens. I will carry on cycling, and I am not planning to get any older, because I want to keep riding with all my younger cycling friends.”
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