Riders keen to get teeth into gruelling steak race

Cyclists from around Nelson Mandela Bay are saddling up for the city’s toughest cycle event when the Williams Hunt Isuzu Steak Race takes place next month.

The event will see cyclists take to the streets of the Bay for the 90km race, featuring tough hill climbs and scenic routes.

Getting under way at the Grass Roof Farm Stall and Restaurant on December 8, the race will involve riders navigating a series of gruelling hill climbs as they make their way to Van Stadens River Mouth before heading back to Grass Roof.

The event will be hosted by the Master and Ladies Cycling Club, and club members will receive free entry.

Non-members will pay R120 to take part.

All funds raised will go to a charity of the sponsors’ choice.

Samantha Barnes, of Oracle Media, said the race – now in its 26th year – did not usually attract a huge field of riders.

However, there was hope that numbers would increase this year.

Barnes said the race, first held in 1992, was named the “steak race” after two cycling friends took a bet, the winner being treated to a steak dinner at the expense of the loser.

While no prize money would be on offer, Barnes said, 150 riders would receive finisher’s medals.

The winners will each also receive a steak voucher.

Registration for the race will begin at 5.15am on race day.

Racing is scheduled to get under way with a mass start at 6am.

To book your spot on the start line, riders can visit the Masters PE Facebook page for entry fees and details on how to enter.