Cycle tour cancelled

A number of Grahamstown cyclists made the trip to Cape Town over the weekend for the Cape Town Cycle Tour. The tour was cancelled after the first few groups had started.

A statement issued by the Cycle Tour Media Office on the morning of the race, Sunday 12 March read, “This morning presented a number of challenges, not least of which were wind speeds considerably higher than predicted yesterday. This, combined with a large fire that broke out in Hout Bay in the early hours of this morning, and the added risk of protest action en route, were all contributing factors to the decision made in our Joint Operation Centre (JOC) by the VOC Commander to stop the event.”

Ian Siebörger, who felt sick on the morning of the race, still made his way to the start.

“I was in my starting pen when I heard riders around us saying the race had been cancelled. There was plenty of confusion as officials opened the front of our pen so we could ride off. It was tragic that the race couldn't happen, but I was quite relieved that I didn't have to ride in that horrible wind while not feeling well,” Siebörger said.

While there was some frustration vented on social media, most cyclists agreed that the organisers had made the right call. “Clearly not meant to be... shortened because of protests then this. Very gusty on Eastern Boulevard even in big car!” said Judy Stevenson.

Some managed to find the humour in the situation, with various photoshopped images making the rounds, while a number of videos from the starting area were posted.

Ken Watson said, “On the bright side, I can now have breakfast at the guest house, so at least there I get my money's worth.”