As one of South Africa’s best loved sport stars and an increasingly competitive mountain biker Joel Stransky is an icon of cycling. He’ll be representing Rhodes Quality Food Group at the 2017 Momentum Health Cape Pioneer Trek, presented by Biogen, and we asked him a few questions about what he’s expecting from the #racewithsoul.

Cape Pioneer Trek: What have you heard about the Momentum Health Cape Pioneer Trek, presented by Biogen, and why are you keen to ride it?

Joel Stransky: I have heard only good things about the Momentum Health Cape Pioneer, presented by Biogen. The area is rugged but beautiful, I know the riding is tough but rewarding and I have heard the race is well organized and a wonderful experience. This all makes it very appealing indeed.

CPT: What section of the route are you looking forward to most?

JS: I have never ridden the route up to Oudshoorn up the old pass so I am looking forward to the iconic climb. Having recently experienced some road riding in the Alps, I am very keen to compare it to this famous South African pass! I also hear that there is some amazing singletrack through the early parts of the race!

CPT: You’ll be riding for Rhodes Quality Food Group, tell us a bit about them and your role as a brand ambassador.

JS: I would guess that my role is more of a race representative from time to time than an ambassador, but Rhodes have been really good to me and I am very happy to race for them where they are sponsors. It is good to see them involved in mountain biking and growing their brand in a growing and exciting sport! I also have a long term relationship with Biogen for whom I am an ambassador so it all ties in nicely!

CPT: You’re famously competitive, who will you be riding with and what is your team’s goals?

JS: I suppose the competitive nature is in the blood and has always been there… I just can’t help it! Haha! I am riding with Dave de Lima, a mate and training partner from Johannesburg. We are very similar in strength, get on really well and the same age – so it is a good match! And he is also super competitive!!

CPT: What advice would you give riders building up to their first week long stage race?

JS: A few little bits – definitely train hard and come in well prepared; most importantly, start easy and finish strong, don’t go too hard in the first few days as it catches up later; “eat and drink for tomorrow”; and lastly enjoy it!!

Join Joel at the 2017 Momentum Health Cape Pioneer Trek, presented by Biogen, click here to enter.