The Jonker report - Setting an example
January 20 2010
The
European teams could learn a thing or two about attitude from Team-UniSA
Australia this year because the boys are setting a fine example of what
it is to get in there and do your very best.
Today saw David Kemp carry the baton for the team, getting out into a breakaway only moments after the start of the race and maintaining a competitive ride for the next 100 km. It shows that quality in cycling is not only about the physical but also about mental attitude and team discipline.
Kemp has been rewarded with the Most Aggressive Rider Jersey today and his efforts have underpinned the retention of the King of the Mountain Jersey for young Tim Roe. This is really a gold class effort from a team comprising largely "unsigned" riders and one which has come together as a one-off for this race, with no previous opportunity to train together or develop a great understanding of their fellow riders. It is also a credit to team manager Dave Sanders who gives the clear direction and earnest praise and support the riders need to do their best as elite athletes.
It was a brilliant day for the team although Jonathan Cantwell again faced punctures as did Tim Roe. Roe also got a taste of the bustle that happens when the peloton is preparing for a sprint finish. He had a small crash just under three km from the finish of the race. The rules say that if it is under the three km he still records the same time as the peloton which thankfully means he has not lost time.
Stage three of the Tour is not overly difficult, although it looks like it may heat up tomorrow which always adds to the challenge. Team UniSA- Australia will need to maintain this same cheeky aggression to keep in the thick of it all and hopefully Cantwell's little streak of back luck with punctures will evaporate and he can have a crack in the sprints.
Stage two winner Andre Greipel from Team HTC-Columbia is looking formidable. He took the win with all the confidence of a champion and is looking more than satisfied and comfortable in the Ochre jersey.
Unless the other professional teams adopt some strong attacking tactics tomorrow, perhaps following the Team UniSA example, I see no reason why Greipel should not be confident.
Patrick Jonker