2015 Sponsored Athlete
Age: 22
Twitter: @CalvinBeneke
What inspired you to start cycling? Cycling has always been a part of our family as my father and uncle were both cyclists. So they spread the inspiration to me.
Favourite place to ride and why? Cape Town, South Africa. It has the best roads and the ocean is not far away.
Favourite post-ride meal? It is always changing.
What are your favourite Direct Nutrition products? I really like the new Elite bars that Direct Nutrition have made.
What is it about those particular Direct Nutrition products that you like? The flavours are great and the size is perfect for when you’re on the bike.
What is your advice to anyone who wants to become a professional racer? Three things that I suggest are:
Self-discipline, sacrifice and ask yourself how badly do you want it?
Who is your cycling hero and why? He is not a hero but I admire Wiggo. He has done it all.
Do you have a nickname? If so what is it and why is it that? Cal, Calv and Calvino.
How do you take your coffee? Latte, flat white, espresso etc... Coffee is key! In the morning black with one sugar and in the afternoon a cappuccino.
Favourite music? All music from dubstep, rock and roll, jazz and Michael Jackson!
Favourite film? Movies with a twist.
Favourite race and why? My home town race - Race for Victory. It has everything from climbing, flats, wind and a sand road section.
What has been your proudest moment on the bike? My proudest moment is still yet to come.
What was your first bike? An Alpinia
What would your go to karaoke song be? Michael Jackson - Beat It.
Most embarrassing moment on your bike? Forgetting my cycling shoes.
If you weren't a cyclist what would you be doing instead? Student studying or would find work.
What is the one thing in the world you couldn't live without? Coffee.
If you could have one super power what would it be? Mind control.
Would you rather have more time or more money? That’s a hard one but I would pick money because we all live once so I would make it worth by being able to do anything.