A ride to remember

IT WAS satisfying that the podium positions for the men’s elite section of this year’s Cape Town Cycle Tour were taken by Capetonians. First and second place women’s winners were South African as well. It is a testimony to the depth of our cycling talent.

For the thousands of other riders participating in the 39th edition of the event, it was the ideal opportunity to record a personal best. There was little wind to speak of and the sunny weather played along.

Some suggested the 2016 Cycle Tour will not be one to be remember – but for all the right reasons, because it ran as a well-oiled machine.

It is a credit to all involved in pulling off another successful event – the race organisers and marshals for ensuring that thousands start on time and get through the route, the army of volunteers that keep cyclists hydrated and fed, and the multitude of supporters cheering riders on from start to finish.

But it will be a Cycle Tour to remember for Clint Hendricks of Paarl who won his maiden Cape Town Cycle Tour, beating off fierce competition in his peloton.

It will be a ride to remember too for the many who overcame immense personal adversity to even make it to the starting line. There were plenty still who dedicated their endeavour to supporting charities.

The other big winner was our city: the pictures beamed around the world showcased its most spectacular sights.