Interview with Luthando Kaka

Cape Town, South Africa, March 2009.

Before Luthando returned to Europe, we asked him:

How long have you been back in South Africa?
Since October 2008; I've used my time here to train for my return to the European cycling season. The SA Championships and the Giro del Capo were great training platforms and I'm feeling in good form for the European season.

What did you enjoy most about your three months back in South Africa?
I loved being back home in Khayelitsha and a highlight was having the Team GMH riders come to South Africa at the end of February. They came to see where I live, which was a big thing for me. It's important that those who believe in me see where I come from and how much talent there is in the townships.
I was very proud of Songezo Jim's good results in the Giro and hope this opens up opportunities for him - and others - into the future. Our performances in the Giro and the Cycle Tour showcased the potential of the LCA. Not only did we take the breaks but we made them stick a lot longer than other people thought we would.
It's also been very encouraging to see how the number of township children interested in cycling has grown, and to see the way in which my achievements are impacting my immediate community.
Today the LCA has far more members than it has bicycles and my wish is that more funds will be made available for the purchase of bikes in 2009, which will make it easier for the children I've inspired to participate in the sport.

What kind of response have you had since your return from Europe?
I think the top riders in South Africa are starting to get used to me; they're starting to acknowledge and accept me more than they did before. They know who I am and where I've been; I've proven I can race and compete at their level and they're showing a lot more respect, not only to me, but also to the other top performing riders from the GT/Velokhaya team. The jealousy and the aggression I saw in the past is definitely subsiding, which is good news, because there is no need for it.
It is a sad fact that black cyclists tend to regard the hostility and aggression they often experience in races as an 'abnormal normality'. While we do try and ignore this unfortunate behaviour, we would like to see those in authority taking action against those who deliberately behave in this manner.

What are your plans for 2009?
I will compete in Europe for at least six months, riding with Team GMH. My first race is in Germany.
This year I hope to build on my past experience in Denmark. The three months I spent there in 2008 was just the right period of time; long enough for me to see what it was all about but not too long. It gave me a taste of what lies ahead and now I am prepared to work even harder at achieving my goals.
I am excited about going back. I'm feeling more confident to take risks in order to make my mark. This year will be about getting results; as many as possible.
I also want to learn a European language as I plan to live in Europe one day. I am also looking forward to returning to my home with the Skelde's, particularly since I will have an English speaking roommate!

More news from Luthando in our next newsletter!