Lance Armstrong did a three-hour ride in Cape town, South Africa today with teammate Daryl Impey. The RadioShack duo arrived yesterday after a 12-hour flight. Both riders will be competing in the Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour on March 14.
Armstrong and Impey missed the recent hot temperatures, but they still warmed up as they climbed Chapmans Peak. “Done with a nice three-hour ride. I’ve heard many times before that Cape Town is stunning. That was no lie. What a place,” Armstrong said on his twitter account. Several fans in South Africa had written in with a welcome message.
After a stopover in Gabon, Armstrong and Impey arrived in Cape Town. Entering South Africa was a little bit tricky for frequent flyer Armstrong. “Well, made it to Cape Town but can’t get into the country since my passport is full and there’s no room to stamp it.” Eventually he was able to clear customs to get ready for the race on Sunday.
He won’t be the only celebrity, as former tennis star Gabriela Sabatini has also signed up for the cycling race.
After the disappointment of his recent time trial performance in the Vuelta a Murcia, the team’s manager Johan Bruyneel indicated that Armstrong may need to add a few more competitions to his schedule. Cape Argus will give him one opportunity. Wielermagazine was also speculating that the Circuit de la Sarthe could fit into his schedule. He last rode this French race in 2001, where he finished 25th.