2025 Champions Travis Stedman (left) and Joanna van de Winkel show off their trophies after winning the aQuellé Tour Durban road race.
Image: Gavin Ryan /Gameplan Media
Travis Stedman used his explosive sprint finish and European racing experience to clinch a thrilling win in the 110km aQuellé Tour Durban cycle race on Sunday, edging out defending champion Josh Rheeders and local hopeful Scott Blount in a gripping finale.
The decisive moment came with just over 20km to go when Stedman (Toyota Specialised), Rheeders (Luso ACDC Pro Cycling), and Blount (Leigh’s Cycle Centre) broke clear from the leading group, that included newly crowned national champion Daniyal Matthews. The trio worked together to fend off the chasers and set the stage for a fierce sprint to the finish.
Rheeders put in a valiant effort to defend his 2024 title but could not match Stedman’s top-end speed. Stedman raised his arms in triumph as he crossed the finish line, clocking 2:36:17, just one second ahead of Rheeders. Blount, who had attempted a solo move earlier in anticipation of the final push, settled for third.
“I tried to break up the team guys on the Mdloti climb on the first lap, and we got it down to about ten riders,” said a jubilant Stedman. “On the final lap, I did the same and only two could follow. I managed to pull it off in the sprint, so I’m really happy. It’s my first road win with Toyota Specialised, which is cool.”
Rheeders, gracious in defeat, acknowledged Stedman’s power: “I came to defend my title and ended second, so I can’t be too unhappy. Travis was just too strong in the sprint.”
Blount, who rode aggressively throughout, couldn’t match the final burst but earned a well-deserved spot on the podium.
In the women’s race, Joanna van de Winkel showed her class once again, notching her fourth victory despite not being at peak fitness. She crossed the line in 2:46:49 ahead of Linda Potts and Kadence Ribbink, but her win didn’t come without drama.
Van de Winkel found herself in a second group after missing the early men’s breakaway and had to work hard to contribute to the pace. A crash in the final sprint left her bloodied and bruised, and she walked her damaged bike across the finish line with torn kit and a smile.
“I could have hung back, but I’m too competitive and wanted to sprint the guys,” she said with a laugh. “Unfortunately, I got caught up in the crash, but I still got the win.”