Meintjes definitely the best climber, but a guy like Van Niekerk should be very dangerous as well on a finish like this.
The current national champion Meintjes comes to the front a first time with 20 km left, the other pro riders immediately make sure to get in his wheel. You never know what he is planning to do, they must think.
12.5 km left and Van Niekerk attacks on the penultimate uphill sector! Meintjes has some trouble following his excruciating acceleration, whereas Dlamini and Visser try making their way back as well!
The two leaders start the final climb with a comfortable lead over the others. 4 km to go as now it’s Meintjes going for it, with Van Niekerk able to follow so far!
And now it’s Van Niekerk attacking with 3 km to climb! Nice spectacle for the local fans who made it here today!
They’re still next to each other under the flamme rouge! Dlamini’s bronze seems to be safe.
Meintjes has taken the lead with 200 meters to go! Is Van Niekerk able to still beat him?!
No! The top favourite beats the other favourite in a fashionable way! They gave us a great show, and we thank them for that!
Result:
1
Louis Meintjes
Farfetch Pro Cycling
1h59'33
2
Aidan Van Niekerk
Festina - OAKA
+ 5
3
Nicholas Dlamini
ISA - Hexacta
+ 36
4
Stefan De Bod
Farfetch Pro Cycling
+ 1'05
5
Johann van Zyl
Xero Racing
s.t.
6
Louis Visser
BWT Hyundai N Cycling
+ 1'19
7
Morne Van Niekerk
Xero Racing
s.t.
63
Shaun Nick Bester
Isostar - Specialized
+ 6'26"
Time Trial
Xero’s Van Niekerk versus De Bod for the time trial title, or is Dlamini able to surprise?
Dlamini looks to be heading for bronze again, as he is already 45” behind De Bod at the first time check. Strong time at the finish for the Farfetch rider, finishing in 1h02’59”. Will it be two for two for the men in black?
Yes! Van Niekerk is unable to pass him, finishing half a minute slower!
