The women will have their own start and as a result race and team tactics will surely determine the outcome of this year’s event. Ashleigh Moolman Pasio is in top form and proved at the MTN OFM Classic that she is very fast. The team also has accomplished climber Joanna van de Winkel who recently won the Jacaranda Satellite Classic as well as being a past winner of the Momentum 94.7 Cycle Challenge. Another rider in their arsenal, Anriette Schoeman, is the record holder with 5 wins in the Momentum 94.7 Cycle Challenge. Anriette proved herself in the sprint in the Dome to Dome and Chevrolet 99er. Robyn de Groot, well-known for her big match temperament, has also recorded wins this year in the VW Herald and Bestmed Campus to Campus. Then there is Lynette Burger, the African Games Champion, who can never be underestimated when it comes down to a sprint. Burger, the team captain, made it clear that the race will be a full team effort with every rider fully committed to each other and the team.
The team will also have its eye set on the Momentum 94.7 Cycle Challenge Team Trophy. This is one of the very few events that caters for women's team podiums. To walk away with the team trophy at the end of the season is always a huge bonus.
The team will however have their hands full with the defending champion, Cherise Taylor, who is in excellent form. The finish also suits Taylor to a tee. With a tussle expected between MTN Qubheka and Nashua Toyota Taylor is is expected that Taylor will look to exploit that rivalry. Then there is Lise Olivier who proved herself this year as a very tough and clever rider. If she goes with the right break she is very capable to make the race her own.
