Armstrong to ride Cape Argus sportive

Lance Armstrong has confirmed his attendance at the Cape Argus Cycle Tour in South Africa, the world's largest timed mass-participation cycle event which takes place on March 14.

"Hey South Africa! Excited to come down in March. Bringing your man Daryl Impey with me. And yes, we're racing The Argus. Hear gr8 things," the American seven-time Tour de France winner said via his Twitter micro-blog on Wednesday.

Impey is Armstrong's South African team-mate at the newly-formed RadioShack squad.

"Last year it was Matt Damon and this year it's Lance," said David Bellairs, Cape Argus Cycle Tour co-director.

"With such high profile individuals taking part, there can be no doubt about Cycle Tour's iconic status."

"The fact that Lance will be riding Cycle Tour alongside one of South Africa's cycling superstars is just wonderful," Bellairs said.

The Cape Argus Cycle Tour covers 68 miles on March 14, 2010. Last year's event was blighted by strong winds that saw 25,698 finish, and 15,659 either elect not to start or drop out.

With so many cyclists in the area, the mind boggles as to how many would turn up if Armstrong announces one of his impromptu 'Twitter rides' before the event.

Related links

Robert Garbutt's blog: Cape crusader

Lance Armstrong: Rider Profile