109km of fun for everyone in city 35 000 riders reap rewards after hours of training
ASPECTACULAR sunrise yesterday greeted the Cape Town Cycle Tour supporters, who navigated the many road closures to see off their family members and friends at the start line yesterday.
Welcomed by Cape Argus cheerleaders, performers and fireworks, it appeared the early bird really did catch the worm at the start of the world’s largest timed bicycle race at the Cape Town Civic Centre.
A few hours later the supporters had made their way to the finish line in Green Point close to Cape Town Stadium.
With 35 000 riders taking part in the race in what mayor Patricia de Lille called the “most beautiful city”, bikes of all shapes and sizes were seen. These included road-bikes, mountain bikes, handcycles and unicyles, which comprised what the Cape Town Cycle Tour trust called the “wheeled, multicoloured, lycra conveyor belt around the Peninsula”.The champions of the elite men and women races completed the race in less than three hours.
One of the many highlights of the day included the champagne spray as the men's and women's champions ascended the podium to pop some bubbly to the cheers of the crowd. Cheers of “Pêrel, Pêrel” (Paarl) were heard as winner of the men'’s elite race, Clint Hendricks took to the stage and claimed the trophy, designed by Carrol Boyes, holding it high with a look of pride and elation on his face.
Cyclist Richard Dock from Cape Town was excited to finish his first Cycle Tour in around three hours. “I trained really hard and now it serves as confirmation that I can do the Cape Epic next week,” said the 46-year-old.
David Belange, 56, from Kempton Park, cycled his 10th tour this year, claiming that he would never miss a Cycle Tour.
When questioned whether he had any supporters in the stands, Belange said he had flown down by himself. “My children used to ride with me many years ago, doing tandem – that’s how I started,” he said.
Dancers entertained the crowds, while music ensured the energy at the finish line remained high as the riders completed their the 109km race.
Conservative riders donned lycra outfits, with more adventurous ones accessorising with fairy wings, baby bibs and even a few faux rhino horns.