New slot for race
Cycle event moved to March 2018
SHOCK waves vibrated through the offices of St Bernard’s Hospice when on November 10, it received notification from Sanral permission for the legendary three-day Port Elizabeth to East London cycle challenge was withdrawn due to ongoing road works. Permission was granted in June, and the crippling news arrived a mere 11 days before the scheduled start of the event. Although devastated by the news, the safety of the cyclists, fellow road-users and the reputation of the organisation had to be taken into consideration and thus the instructions were respected. This particular route would only become available for the St Bernard’s Hospice Cycle Challenge again in 2023, when all the road works were completed.
“When in the business of palliative care, one learns to look for hope amongst the ashes.and to recognise opportunity amidst adversity,” said CEO of St Bernard’s Hospice, Melissa Knox.
The opportunity found in this untimely change is the growing relationship that Queenstown Roundtable has with St Bernard’s Hospice. “Queenstown residents have been consistent supporters of this fundraiser,” said Marchel Brown, resource developer for St Bernard’s. “We are told to expect some amazing hospitality on our evening there.”
As such, the “2017” St Bernard’s Cycle Challenge is only postponed, and definitely not cancelled. The dates are now 21 to 23 March 2018 and the new route will be an East London Queenstown return trip, still held over three days. This route is however an additional 100km further. Total distance travelled will be 400km and they now have space for a further 20 cyclists.
“The dates include one public holiday, which means supporters can use a day less of their annual leave,” said Knox.
It is also just after the Cape Town Argus Cycle Tour and will be an excellent opportunity for prudent cyclist enthusiasts to stretch their muscles over three days for a good cause whilst maintaining their fitness for future events.
St Bernard’s Hospice wishes to thank its sponsors and cyclists, who have been incredibly understanding and accommodating with the change in dates. It really demonstrates their commitment to affirming life through providing palliative care for all.
If anyone would like to know more about how to get involved with our Annual Cycle Challenge, please direct your queries to Marchel Brown, event organiser
(fundraising1@stbh.org.za) or to the CEO, Melissa Knox (management@stbh.org.za).