Training camp lays solid foundation for 2018
Since the Hi-Q cycling team's launch it has been all systems go.
Starting with a six-day training camp at the Sabie River Camp, the team laid a solid foundation.
They cycled over 600 kilometres which included more than 10 000 metres of elevation and conquered some of Mpumalanga’s truly majestic passes such as Robber’s Pass and God’s Window.
Valuable base training and bonding were achieved and necessary for an exceptionally busy 2018 calendar.
Team NAD local cycling celebrities Nico Bell and Gawie Combrink joined the team on a number of rides.
January started off with the Mpumalanga three-day cycle tour. It lived up to its reputation of being one of the toughest in the country.
Ruben Helberg (HQCT) convincingly took overall victory in the junior category while teammate, Ryan Terry (HQCT) worked hard throughout and was rewarded for his efforts after a closely fought contest with Damon Fouchee to claim second place.
Blake Coetzer also a member of the yellow-and-blue jersey, competed in the open category where he finished third.
Results:
• Stage 1: Ruben Helberg first, Callum Ormiston fourth, Ryan Terry fifth
• Stage 2: Ruben Helberg first, Ryan Terry second, Brendan Phillips fifth
• Stage 3: Callum Ormiston first, Ryan Terry third, Ruben Helberg fourth.
Last weekend the Mpumalanga Championships were held at Badplaas, A Forever Resort. Yet another successful event for the Hi-Q cycling team.
The team took nine of the possible 12 medals on offer.
Ryan Terry was awarded the Mpumalanga Young Rider of the Year 2017 at the annual awards ceremony. Added to which three members of the team, Ruben Helberg, Callum Ormiston and Terry were awarded Mpumalanga colours.
• Road race: Ruben Helberg second, Ryan Terry third, Callum Ormiston fourth
• Time trial: Ryan Terry second, Callum Ormiston third, Jeandre Gautier fourth
• Hill climb: Callum Ormiston first, Ruben Helberg third, Jeandre Gautier fourth
• Criterium: Callum Ormiston first, Ruben Helberg second, Jeandre Gautier third.
Tiaan van Pletzen from Lydenberg joined the Hi-Q cycling team at the end of 2017. The team now consolidates in the build up to the South African Championships in Oudtshoorn.
