The Cape Town Cycle Tour is upon us with just a few days to go, before the hosting of the world-famous cycling event. A group of some 30 000 riders from around the world will be in the Mother City this weekend, to take part in the 46th edition of the race.
The Cape Town Cycle Tour is upon us
This scenic and gruelling event is also the world’s largest individually timed cycle race. It’s a highlight on the annual cycling calendar and has become a “bucket-list” race for many cyclists. The route offers spectacular views as well as the opportunity for lovers of bicycles to cycle traffic-free. Many riders return to complete the route, more than once.
The successful staging of the annual event also enables the Cape Town Cycle Tour Trust to source funds for its 2 beneficiaries, the Pedal Power Association and Rotary Club of Claremont. They apply the surplus proceeds for social upliftment projects and the development and promotion of cycling and safe cycling initiatives.
Supporting the local economy
Cultural Affairs and Sport MEC Anroux Marais says the event has become an important one in supporting the local economy.
Marais also commented, “The Cycle Tour brings a variety of athletes together – from those racing to achieve a fast time, to those who turn it into a social riding event which they share with their family and friends.”
She says the increase in participants from outside Cape Town brings in tourism and economic growth.
“Whether it’s winning the race or just completing it before the cut-off time – the hope and joy experienced remains the same,” Marais elaborated.
Marais added that the cycle tour is more than just a 1-day event and has significant social benefits and promotes healthy lifestyles.
She added, “It’s a wonderful sight to see the numbers of riders coming in and celebrating their achievements on the day.”
The translated isiXhosa cycling rulebook for the Cape Town Cycle Tour
Meanwhile, the Cultural Affairs and Sport Department (DCAS) has in the build-up to the event, launched the translated isiXhosa cycling rulebook.
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This is the first time that the rules have been published in isiXhosa. By doing so, the sport is becoming accessible to more people in the province, It will also encourage more participation in the sport.
Good luck to all
She wished all the participants good luck with this event.
She concluded, ” I hope that everyone taking part enjoys the event and I look forward to cheering for you on the day.”
She furthermore said that the hosting of major sporting events in the province will ensure that the Western Cape will continue to grow as a sporting hub which creates platforms for social cohesion, more jobs and economic growth.
