Reinardt Janse Van Rensburg: “I had a great experience during my time in Portugal. I would always think back on it and have good memories”

South-African rider, 32 years old, from Team Qhubeka NextHash. He participated in the Volta a Portugal in 2012, where he won 2 stages and the points jersey.

– Before racing Volta a Portugal, had you ever heard about the race?

Yes, I knew about Volta a Portugal, but I never knew that it was considered one of the “Grand Tours” during its most prominent years. I think there was a time when the Volta a Portugal had 24 stages. That I only learned when I read the race book before the race. I also didn´t know how important the race was for the Portugese riders and fans especially.

– Was there anything in Volta that impressed you or that you retain until today?

The race as a whole did impress me. It was extremely well organized and it was very well supported by the Portuguese people. Within Portugal it seemed to have the prominence that any other Grand Tour has in its home country. I didn´t expect that the people would be so fanatic about it.

– Are there any international races that you can compare to Volta?

I would compare Volta a Portugal to Vuelta a España. Obviously it is shorter, but it has all the other characteristics of a Grand Tour. The level of the Portuguese riders are really high, and the race is well covered by the media in Portugal and again the fans make the race for riders. Paired with the heat it really does feel like a mini-Vuelta.

– What is your opinion on Portuguese cycling and riders, based on your Volta experience?

The Portuguese riders’ level is really high and there are some exceptional climbers and time-trialists. Anyone going to Portugal should be prepared for a hard race on a high level. I would like to see more of them and the teams also competing in races further away from home.