Thousands roll in for cycling race, expo
The Cape Town Cycle Tour Trust appeals to riders and supporters to save water
CAPE Town’s hospitality and leisure industries are set to receive a major cash injection this weekend as thousands of people flood in for the Cape Town Cycle Tour.
The event started yesterday with the opening of the Tour Expo which ends today.
Cape Town Tourism chief Enver Duminy said the hospitality industry was already reporting high occupancy rates,
“It is still high season for tourism, and the city is set to be host to thousands of visitors attending the pre-race expo and enjoying some exploration of local attractions.
“The event injects in excess of R500 million into the Western Cape economy every year, as well as raising millions for charitable undertakings and cycling development.”
He said the ability of Cape Town to host high-profile events from sporting tournaments to music festivals entices organisers to continuously choose it as a host city.
The expo brought exhibitors from various fields within the cycling, retail and health and fitness industries, showcasing products and expertise.
Many cyclists use the event to have their blood pressure tested and get a massage, while also looking at the latest trends, equipment and other items on exhibition.
Expo organiser Eddy Cassar told the Cape Times that there are more than 300 exhibitors .
“Our statistics indicate that a cyclist is likely to bring one guest along to attend the expo. We have just over 35 000 registered riders for this year’s event, which adds up to 70 000 people,” said Cassar.
He said the expo is one of the biggest events held in the city.
This year’s tour will be livestreamed with legendary cycling commentator Phil Liggett and ex-professional cyclist and Pedal Talk presenter Johnny Koen anchoring.
Camera operators will be stationed at the start and finish, with four motorcycle units streaming pictures along the 109km route and an aerial drone recording the iconic scenery from above.
From 6am on Sunday, the race can be watched live on www.capetowncycletour.tv and streaming will be accessible via a hotlink on www.capetowncycletour.com.
Following a request and extensive discussion with the Women’s Commission of Cycling South Africa and representatives of the cycle tour, a Women Only Invitational start group in Glencairn will be facilitated.
The Cape Town Cycle Tour Trust appeals to riders and supporters to save water. Sufficient quantities will be available en route and are to be used sparingly and purely for the purposes of hydration.
For more information, visit www.capetowncycletour.com