Anriette to tackle The Argus in low gear

Three weeks ago, Port Elizabeth cyclist Anriette Schoeman was in peak condition, looking forward to retaining her Cape Argus Pick 'n Pay Cycle Tour crown and, at the same time, scooping her sixth victory in the 109km race around the Peninsula.

However, two weeks ago, Schoeman's dreams of success were shattered when an unlicenced driver ploughed into her while she was training in Port Elizabeth, destroying her bike and breaking her wrist.

But, instead of moping about her misfortune, the petite cyclist with an iron will has decided to ride The Argus. "I want to be part of the action, I don't think I'd cope not competing. It's so frustrating, I can't change gears properly or stand while riding, and I can only use one brake," said Schoeman who has had her cast changed three times since the accident.

"A week after the accident I got back on the bike despite the pain, but the cotton wool gets wet and the cast becomes soft after training... I really had a good chance for another win, but now that's out of the question."

Unquestionable, though, is the Proline Computer Ladies team captain's determination to be there for teammates Marissa van der Merwe, Engela Conradie, Robyn de Groot and Lizette Nortje on Sunday.

"The support from them and the sponsors has been fantastic. We won the team prize last year, I will try and stick with them and maybe we can do it again... It's going to be a case of 'close your eyes and do the race'."