The Barloworld/Cymot Pro team completed the Volta Angola 2025, a 10-stage cycling tour that began on 30 October and concluded on Sunday in the Namibe Province. 

This year’s edition was especially meaningful because it marked the 50th anniversary of Angolan independence, celebrating both athletic achievement and national pride. 

The event attracted 18 international teams and seven local teams, with a total of 225 cyclists taking on Angola’s challenging and picturesque routes. 

For the Barloworld/Cymot Pro team, consisting of Petrus Hanga, Wilbard Shoopala, Simon Keitha, Simon Kope, Kabelo Makatile, Khotsofalanga Rakaota and Thabiso Mokalake, it was an unforgettable experience, marked by strong performances and valuable lessons. 

The team delivered impressive results on the mountain stages, finishing in the top four, top eight and top 10 across the three most challenging climbs of the race. 

These results highlighted the riders’ climbing strength and teamwork under demanding conditions. 

However, according to a statement from the team, the race presented unique challenges. 

“During the individual time trial, the team competed without specialised time-trial bikes, riding instead on standard road bikes. This put them at a disadvantage against other teams better equipped for the stage. The toughest moment came in stage five, when the team’s general classification leader suffered from a stomach illness, costing valuable time as the squad battled through strong winds and difficult conditions,” the statement reads. 

Despite these hurdles, the team demonstrated remarkable determination, finishing as the top international team in the general classification. 

The team also secured an impressive fifth place in the team classification out of 25 teams, and 19th overall in the individual general classification. The Angolan Dario Antonio, with his club Interlube Angola, won the competition. 

“We praised the Angolan Cycling Federation for organising a well-run event that not only tested athletes’ endurance but also showcased the natural beauty and hospitality of Angola,” the statement adds. 

The team’s next goal is the Nedbank Desert Dash in December. 

-lmupetami@nepc.com.na