ISSUE # 3
February 2017
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INTO N E W S PA P E R
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SA’S FIRST BIKE HOTEL PAGE 5
APPAREL PAGE 7
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GET READY FOR CYCLE MONTH IN THE WC
Photo: Pro men at the start of stage 6 of the 2016 Absa Cape Epic from Boschendal in Stellenbosch, South Africa - Photo Credit: Sam Clark/Cape Epic/SPORTZPICS
World-class cycling events like the Cape Rouleur, The Cape Town Cycle Tour and the Absa Cape Epic showcase the diversity of the Western Cape as a cycling destination, and will play a key role in our cycling offering. “These events drive interest in cycling in the province, which has led to an upsurge in hobby cycling by road and mountain bike. This is generating additional economic opportunities,” said Minister Winde. The cycling economy also adds jobs in the tourism industry, in rural spaces and in the cycling goods supply industry. Riders, organizers, sponsors, and spectators are gearing up for cycling month in the Western Cape.
South African National Elite Men’s Champion, Jaco Venter is looking forward to defending his title in his own backyard at the 2017 SA National Road Championships in the Western Cape from 7-12 February. The Team Dimension Data rider said, “It would be great to defend my title at nationals this year, but if I can’t, as long as it’s someone from our team I’ll be happy.” The Cape Town local says that it’s something special to have the National Championships in the region. “I regularly train out to the Wellington side, so it’s like a home nationals, which I haven’t had in a really long time,” he said. Reflecting on 2016, Venter feels that what he has learnt most about himself in the year is his ability to forget the suffering endured, and how excited and motivated he becomes for each new season.
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JACO VENTER TO DEFEND NATIONAL TITLE AT SA CHAMPS
YOU NO LONGER HAVE TO CHOOSE BETWEEN AN SUV AND A MASERATI
LEVANTE. THE MASERATI OF SUVs. STARTING FROM R1 650 000 The practicality and versatility of an SUV, or the power and panache of a Maserati? Now you can enjoy both - Introducing the new Levante. The Powerful V6 Engine, Q4 intelligent all-wheel drive system, 8 speed ZF transmission and sophisticated air suspension confirm that the Levante is every inch a refined SUV. Meanwhile, its exclusive Italian styling, luxurious interior and unique exhaust note affirms its Maserati DNA. So that’s one less difficult decision to make. Discover the new Levante. LEVANTE DIESEL: V6 60 o 2,987CM - MAX POWER: 275 HP AT 4,000 - MAX TORQUE: 600NM AT 2000-2600 RPM - MAX SPEED: 230 KM/H 0-100KM/ ACCELERATION: 6,9 SECS - FUEL CONSUMPTION (COMBINED CYCLE): 7,2 l/100KM - CO 2 EMISSIONS (COMBINED CYCLE): 189 G/KM THE DATA MAY NOT REFER TO THE MODEL REPRESENTED
MASERATI CAPE TOWN 67 JAN SMUTS STREET, CAPE TOWN, 8001 Phone: 0800 0600 78 | E-mail: info@maseraticpt.co.za
www.maserati.co.za
NEWS
Wild Card Entries For Gran Fondo World Champs
INTO N E W S PA P E R
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Dec. 2016 / Jan. 2017
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PASSIONATE ABOUT CYCLING PAGE 5
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
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LIFESTYLE EVENTS
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TEAM ROADCOVER OUTGUNNED TEAMS AT CDC
Team RoadCover came with a plan. The strategy was to go hard from the gun. To win in style. By doing so they would be telling a side story. Nic White and his RoadCover Cycling Team convincingly outgunned Alpha BodyWorks and Active Bodies to win one of the biggest team time trials in the world - the Coronation Double Century over 202-kilometres out of Swellendam, in a time of 4:42:23 (for 185km of racing) because of a compulsory neutral section in the route.
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Photo: Team RoadCover - Winners of Coronation Double Century
HISTORY OF BATTLES IN THE ATTAKWASKLOOF The Fairview Attakwas Extreme Mountain Bike Challenge marks the entry into its second decade of existence with UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) status as South Africa’s premier single day mountain bike marathon gains international recognition. But the ancient landscapes which set the scene for the race which has developed a reputation as the “Hell of the South”, remain unchanged and unyielding. Long before the tyres of mountain bikes first traversed the Attakwaskloof, the wheels of ox-wagons followed the footpaths of the Attaqua Khoi-Khoi and the Khoi San. Those first men to walk the wilderness of the Attakwaskloof surely followed the trails established by elephants and migrating herds of antelope, which crossed the Outeniqua Mountains from the interior to the fertile coastal plains where the grazing was more abundant. San rock art shows that the Attakwaskloof has a long history of conflict too.
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YOU NO LONGER HAVE TO CHOOSE BETWEEN AN SUV AND A MASERATI
LEVANTE. THE MASERATI OF SUVs. STARTING FROM R1 650 000 The practicality and versatility of an SUV, or the power and panache of a Maserati? Now you can enjoy both - Introducing the new Levante. The Powerful V6 Engine, Q4 intelligent all-wheel drive system, 8 speed ZF transmission and sophisticated air suspension confirm that the Levante is every inch a refined SUV. Meanwhile, its exclusive Italian styling, luxurious interior and unique exhaust note affirms its Maserati DNA. So that’s one less difficult decision to make. Discover the new Levante. o LEVANTE DIESEL: V6 60 2,987CM - MAX POWER: 275 HP AT 4,000 - MAX TORQUE: 600NM AT 2000-2600 RPM - MAX SPEED: 230 KM/H 0-100KM/ ACCELERATION: 6,9 SECS - FUEL CONSUMPTION (COMBINED CYCLE): 7,2 l/100KM - CO2 EMISSIONS (COMBINED CYCLE): 189 G/KM
www.maserati.co.za
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Any rider who attains a top-three position in their respective age category at the SA National Road Championships receives an automatic entry into the Gran Fondo World Championships; and any rider who participates in a Gran Fondo World Championships Qualifying event anywhere in the world, and attains a position within the top 25% of their age group, will also gain an automatic entry into the Gran Fondo World Championships. Wild Card entries are for those who do not qualify through either of these automatic entry processes.
Photo: Cycling South Africa
Please note applications must be accompanied by a riders sporting CV; all allocations will be considered and finalised by the Directors of the Road Commission (Bosseau Boshoff) and Recreation Commission (Corne Bence). Secondary allocation will only be possible if unallocated wild cards remain after the primary allocation process and will be on a first come first serve basis pending approval by the Road Commission and Recreation Commission Directors (please include sporting CV with your application). All applications and supporting documentation to be sent to the Cycling South Africa office for attention Ms Prudence Pietersen, events@cyclingsa.com
Jaco Venter to defend National title at SA Champs
PRINTED INTO
The UCI Gran Fondo World Championships sees amateurs battle it out each year for the chance to claim the coveted rainbow jersey. Riders between the ages of 19 and 77 compete in their respective age categories for the prestigious title.
For those applying for a Wild Card entry, the following criteria needs to be adhered to: primary allocation will be based on SA National Road Championships results; riders finishing between 4th and 10th in their age category will be able to apply for a Wild Card entry; and the closing date for applications is 31 March 2017.
Deadline 12th each month
N E W S PA P E R
Cycling South Africa has 10 Wild Card entries for the 2017 UCI Gran Fondo World Championships, which will take place in Albi (France) from 24-27 August 2017.
MASERATI CAPE TOWN
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Cyclists, organisers and spectators alike are gearing up with anticipation for what is said to be one of the most exciting events on the South African cycling calendar this year. The 2017 SA National Road Championships will take place at Florida Farm Stall in Wellington. The Time Trial, Road Race and Para-cycling events will all be staged on the 12.7-kilometre “Lady Loch” circuit during the six-day competition. The respected event crowns the National Champion in each chosen discipline, for their respective genders and age groups. Each category from (and including) Junior, under-23 and Elite, all the way through to Masters categories between the ages of 30 and 70+ stand a chance to earn the coveted SA National Champion Jersey.
67 JAN SMUTS STREET, CAPE TOWN, 8001 Phone: 0800 0600 78 | E-mail: info@maseraticpt.co.za
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In addition, and for the first time in South Africa, there will also be a podium for the u23 Women category in line with the new UCI category for women’s cycling.
Taking you places!
Bucket list trip! Himalayas - Ledakh ABOUT THE TOUR
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A Bucket list trip to the Himalayas, Ledakh and Leh is, no ordinary holiday - but rather an expedition! This may well be the highest bike journey above sea-level in the world. Ten days of the route are above 4500m and an acclimatization period of at least 3 days are essential for this tour. The scenic beauty of this region is really something to remember. In the midst of open plains are blue lakes nestled between white glacial mountains. Over 90% of the population are Buddhists and a visit to the Taj Mahal is included in the package. Every MTB track, village, monastery, temple and palace that will be visited, leaves a lasting impression. Ledakh = little Tibet. Anybody who embarks on a trip to the Himalayas, should not only adjust themselves for the arrival into another country, but rather another world.
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How long is the Tour? Option of 14 or 23 Day Tours
WHEN does the tour take place? July & September
What’s included? + FLIGHTS + ACCOMMODATION
MOJOmtb is all about taking you to places that you would have never reached, except on a mountain bike. We connect with the specialist Adventure Travel Operators from Southern Africa, as well as abroad to craft exclusive and individualized Adventure Travel Packages. There is absolutely nothing standard about our packages, and to the end every Tour is customized to the target group’s unique demographics and desires. Miriam Stronkhorst is well versed within the Western Cape, Eastern Cape and the Northern Region’s Mountain Bike Trails of Southern Africa. Having mastered all of the most challenging events, as well as Stage Races offered on the MTB Calendar, Miriam is well known amongst SA’s MTB Community as one of our most competent MTB travel companions.
- Excludes alcoholic beverages - Optional Bike rentals available - T&C’s Apply
GIVE US A CALL TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS TOUR!
T: 082 873 6711 | e: info@mojomtb.com | www.mojomtb.com
MOJOmtb is in the business of creating unforgeable memories.
NEWS
Stars Line Up For Abu-Dabhi Tour 2017 The Abu Dhabi Tour is one of 10 new WorldTour races on the 2017 calendar and has managed to attract 16 WorldTour teams. The race ended the 2016 season last October but a new February date has attracted some of the biggest names in the peloton. Race organisers have also invited four non-WorldTour teams: Bardiani-CSF, Gazprom-Rusvelo, Team Novo Nordisk and Nippo-Vini Fantini. The race’s two previous editions were held at the end of the year, with Orica’s Esteban Chaves winning in 2015 and Tanel Kangert (Astana) taking out last year’s overall. This year, contenders will include Steven Kruiswijk (LottoNL-Jumbo), Tom Dumoulin (Team Sunweb), Ilnur Zakarin (Katusha-Alpecin) and Fabio Aru (Astana), making the Abu Dhabi Tour an early-season show down for many of the Giro d’Italia contenders.
Photo: Abu Dhabi Tour, Yas Marina F1 Circuit 2016 Photo Credit: ANSA/CLAUDIO PERI
The four days of racing include three flat stages, with the finish on Jebel Hafeet coming on stage three. The grand finale is once again confirmed for the iconic Yas Marina Circuit with 26 laps of the fast and wide 4.5km circuit. The opening stage will follow its now traditional route, starting and finishing in Madinat Zayed, and running entirely through the desert with a visit to the sand dunes. Stage 2 is a tour of the capital and visits the Corniche, the Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum, Al Reem Island, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Old Al Bahia and Al Sadar. The probable bunch sprint will take place on Al Marina, close to the Big Flag. The third stage is the mountain stage, where the climbers will fight for general classification on the 10.8km Jabel Hafeet climb that tops out at an altitude of 1025m. Kangert won the 2016 race on this stage, but he will face serious competition from some of the biggest names in the sport as they crank up their early season racing and look for WorldTour success.
The sprinters are expected to fight for victory on stage 1, 2 and 4, with Mark Cavendish (Team Dimension Data) and Caleb Ewan (Orica-Scott) facing some serious competition from Marcel Kittel (Quick-Step Floors), Andre Greipel (Lotto Soudal) and Elia Viviani (Team Sky). Cavendish won two stages in 2016, including the final stage on the Yas Marina circuit. “It’s not a secret: I love spending time here in Abu Dhabi. Riding for my team or on vacation with my family. I love the local atmosphere, the people, and the great places to have fun and relax,” Cavendish said at the presentation of the 2017 race route and teams. “Regarding the race last year I won two stages and I closed the 2016 season in the best way I could. I hope to repeat that in 2017: there are WorldTour points up for grabs and it would be a great sign before moving to Europe. I’d like to win in Madinat Zayed to wear the red jersey again. It would be an honour.”
Get Ready For Cycle Month In The WC
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Local and international riders are training hard for both road and mountain bike events taking place in the month of March. On the road cycling scene, the season started off with the Western Cape Champs in Oudtshoorn on 28-29 January, with the South African National Championship from 7-9 February in Wellington, and the Tour of Good Hope taking place in Paarl in early March. The Cape Rouleur, featuring the “Four Passes,” include 160 Pro, former Pro, celebrity, and amateur riders from 16 countries across Africa, America, Australasia, and Europe. All three these events lead up to the Cape Town Cycle Tour - South Africa’s most iconic cycling event which is turning 40 on Sunday, 12 March 2017, and we are excited to commemorate this massive milestone. The mountain bike 2017 season started with the Extreme Attakwas MTB from Oudtshoorn to Grootbrak on 21 January with Transcape MTB from Knysna to Franschhoek and Tankwa Trek in the Kouebokkeveld to follow in February. These mountain bike events, and various other MTB races, are in preparation for the world’s foremost full service mountain bike stage race, the Absa Cape Epic commencing on 19 March 2017.
Tel: 083 334 1935 • info@whasp.co.za • www.whasp.co.za
Photo: Cape Town Cycle Tour - Photo Credit: Tobias Ginsberg
Tel: 087 135 4107 • info@rockfin.co.za • www.rockfin.co.za
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NEWS
Public Urged To Comment
Gravity Mountain Biking
On City’s Draft Cycling Strategy
A fun sport with a high Adrenalin boost
The City of Cape Town’s Transport and Urban Development Authority has published a draft Cycling Strategy which aims to increase the percentage of commuter trips made by bicycle from the current 1% to 8% by 2030, and has committed substantial resources over the past eight years to pursuing the vision of a cycling-friendly city. Currently cyclists have access to at least 450 km of cycle lanes across the city, some of which are separate from the road.
Gravity mountain biking (DH/End) is a genre of mountain biking practiced on steep, rough terrain that often features jumps, drops, rock gardens and other obstacles. In competitive races, a continuous course is defined on each side by a strip of tape. Depending on the format, riders have a single or double attempt to reach the finish line as fast as possible, while remaining between the two tapes designating the course. Riders must choose their line by compromising between the shortest possible line and the line that can be traveled at the highest speed. If a rider leaves the course by crossing or breaking the tape they must return to the course at the point of exit, unless they do not gain a time advantage from crossing the tape, in which case they can continue with their run. Riders start at intervals, often seeded from slowest to fastest, and courses typically take two to five minutes to complete with winning margins being often less than a second.
“Although some of these lanes are popular for recreational cycling, we still have not seen the growth in commuter cycling which is required to have a noticeable impact on traffic congestion, greenhouse gas emissions and to improve mobility in the lower-income areas.”
The Gravity genre can be divided into two categories when it comes to the mountain bikes. Downhill bikes are heavier and stronger than other mountain bikes and feature front and rear suspension with over 8 inches (200mm) or (20 cm) of travel, to glide quickly over rocks and tree roots. Enduro differs from XC cross-country cycling racing and pure downhill cycling racing formats, which may contain little to no climbing or cross country skills.
We evidently need a new approach, together with some key interventions from both the City and the private sector, to realise our goal to increase the percentage of commuter trips by bicycle to 8% within the next 13 years, “ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member: Transport and Urban Development Authority (TDA), Councillor Brett Herron. Last year the TDA’s planning department conducted a status quo assessment of cycling in Cape Town. The research included surveys of cycling movements at 50 locations across the city, an assessment of the available cycle facilities, a review of incident data involving cyclists, and engagements with relevant stakeholders. The survey confirmed that more than 500 utility cyclists cycled to work in the morning peak period, yet the majority of residents cannot afford bicycles. The survey identifies five options to improve access to affordable bicycles, including employer programmes, whilst exploring the possibility of establishing a bicycle manufacturing plant in Cape Town that can build and provide low-cost bicycles. Furthermore, the research indicates the potential for increasing the uptake of utility cycling to work, schools, public services, shopping and social amenities across all income groups for trips of 15 km or less. Other key strategies identified in the draft are as follows: road safety (traffic) and personal security (crime prevention) along cycling routes must be improved, planning, design and provision of cycling lanes must be location-specific, and cycling infrastructure such as cycle lanes, bicycle parking facilities, and storage facilities must be maintained. The Cycling Strategy proposes that cycle routes must be safe, secure, direct routes should avoid detours, comfortable and well maintained, provide a comfortable non-slip riding surface, have gentle curves and flat gradients where possible, and the routes must be attractive to complement their surroundings and contribute to a positive cycling experience. Central to the debate is the need for motorists to accept cycling as a legitimate mode of transport. Residents and interested and affected parties will have the opportunity to submit comments, input or recommendations on the draft Cycling Strategy on www.capetown.gov.za/haveyoursay until 21 February 2017
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Photo: Coenie Slabert - Photo Credit: Ewald Sadie
Enduro’s ‘All Mountain’ discipline therefore favor’s riders with a breadth of skill, on multi discipline cycles; lightweight XC bikes may lack sufficient suspension travel for fast downhill control, whilst full DH bikes may not allow a rider to climb the uphill sections. Although Enduro Mountain Bikes also feature front and rear suspension, they hardly ever exceed that of 160 mm of travel. Therefore Enduro bikes allow riders to climb the hills while at the same time being just as capable as a Downhill Bike on the descents. 2017 Gravity Mountain Bike Series WP Downhill has been running for about 4 years, with riders receiving provincial, regional and national colours, and competing at UCI events and World Champs each year. The decision to change the name to Gravity was made this year to incorporate more than just Downhill into the mix. The 2017 Gravity Mountain Bike Series kicked off at Paarl Taal Monument on 22 January followed by the first round of the National Downhill series held at Helderberg Trails in Somerset West on 28-29 January. Other events in the series include: 19 March (Helderberg Trails), 21 May (Cascade Manor in Paarl), 27-28 May (Cascade Manor in Paarl) and the Western Cape Champs at Contermanskloof on 25 June.
SOUTH AFRICA’S FIRST BIKE HOTEL
Trail’s End - This is Where The Journey Starts As you step inside the doors of Trail’s End bike hotel in Grabouw, you would struggle to comprehend that this time last year it was a fully functioning factory for master house-builders, Rustic Homes. The building, in the heart of some our country’s most spectacular mountain trails, has done away with its machines and sawdust and been tastefully transformed into a contemporary space for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike and it’s just what we’ve all been waiting for. Background The hotel was the brain-child of Pieter Silberbauer and his partner Johannes Matthewson. They had both spent over 25 successful years in the house building business and were looking for a dramatic change that allowed them to work closer to home. Pieter, himself a mountain biking enthusiast, saw that their factory was ideally situated for outdoor and fitness buffs who want to explore the Overberg and, inspired by bike hotels he’d seen in Holland and Japan, decided that it was exactly what the community needed.
If you are not in the mood for exploring, during your stay you can make use of the purpose built 20m, heated outdoor pool in the courtyard as well as a restaurant which includes healthy menu choices, fresh coffee and craft beer which is brewed on site. The restaurant also offers bespoke menu options for those with specific dietary requirements. On top of this there is a wellness centre within the hotel offering Pilates classes on request as well as a physiotherapist, massage therapist and chiropractor which is great for removing all the aches and pains from a day out adventuring. The venue has a professionally built skills training area where various hurdles and obstacles can be tackled safely before heading out on the trails as well as a pump track which is great fun for all. There is also the added bonus of safe indoor bike storage for mountain bikes within the hotel itself. The hotel loves to encourage health and fitness at any level and welcomes cyclists and runners of all abilities.
Although he and Johannes were experienced house builders and could easily tackle the renovation work, Pieter quickly realised that he needed help to ensure that the hotel delivered exactly what athletes, both pro and amateur, would expect. Cue his neighbour, Dr Chad Gordon. Chad, A chiropractor by trade, has been part of the multi sport since the age of 19.
It regularly hosts skills workshops and clinics and it also has a conference room which opens out into the lounge and dining area.
After many successful triathlons, he has re-focussed on trail running over the past few years and he is still winning races. He has a passion for health and nutrition and was an ideal candidate to advise Pieter and Johannes as to how to cater for those who love the adventure sport scene. With Chad on board the vision for Trail’s End was able to be truly realised.
A perfect spot for a team building weekend away. Trail’s End is geared up for families too and children are extremely welcome. There is a particularly awesome climbing wall for kids big and small to scramble up as well as a jungle gym to expend any extra energy on.
The Hotel This radical hotel has an industrial flavour to it. It boasts sixteen rooms in total and can accommodate up to sixty people. The mezzanine rooms have private bathrooms and all the rooms below have shared ablutions. Many of the rooms have a choice of layout options.
Future Goals Pieter has big dreams for Trail’s End. He sees the hotel becoming a global destination for adventure enthusiasts, and beyond that, a place where local meets world, ideas are shared and solutions are found. Being an active member of the Grabouw community, he is fully aware of the challenges his town - like so many in South Africa - faces and he is excited to think that Trail’s End could play a significant part uniting the local community through sport as well as providing much needed jobs as it contributes to building the local tourism industry.
This allows maximum flexibility within the accommodation, enabling it to be suitable for families, pro-athletes, teams or individuals. The hotel is perfectly positioned at the foot of the Wines2Whales A-Z trail with both Oak Valley and Paul Cluver cycle trails nearby too. There are miles of stunning trails to explore through vineyards, forests and mountains. Activities & Facilities Once you’ve exhausted the trails you can explore the rest of the beautiful Elgin Valley which also has an amazing array of wine farms and restaurants to experience as well as the top tourist attraction, the Cape Canopy Tour zipline which is just ten minutes drive away.
Photo L- R: Louis Slabbert (2017 Cape Epic Training Camp) & Erica Green (Daisyway Coaching Systems)
Trail’s End opened its doors in October 2016, successfully hosting the Apple Blossom MTB Classic and has not looked back since. They have hosted training weekends for teams racing from Specialized and Spur and numerous pros have visited it already and given it the thumbs up. Check out the hotel for yourselves. Whether you go alone, with friends or as a family and whether you stay for a night or for a week, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience. Visit the website, www.trailsend.bike, call +27 21 859 5193 or email info@trailsend.bike for more information Follow Trail’s End on social media: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram: @trailsendza
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ROAD
Whats Happening at
WP Cycling Road League
Presented in the week leading up to the Cape Town Cycle Tour from 6-10 March, and based in the Paarl/Franschhoek valley, the 2017 Bestmed Tour of Good Hope encompasses five days road racing through the Cape Winelands over a total distance of 490km and 5218m vertical ascent.
The WPCA (Western Province Cycling Association) who is affiliated under CSA (Cycling South Africa) is proud to announce the 2017 WP Cycling Road League after a successful 2016 season, which saw exceptional racing in all categories. WPCA invites new cyclists and the 2016 league riders who are interested, to participate in the 2017 league season.
Tour of Good Hope this Year!
Paarl is surrounded by some of the most famous passes in the country and lends itself perfectly to a clover leaf racing format. ASG Events believes this format (central race village hub) will significantly reduce the logistics and ‘own costs’ of participants, related to traveling and accommodation, while incorporating some of the best and most famous cycling routes and mountain passes in the Western Cape.
Plans And Outlook for 2017
The Western Province Schools Association have dedicated school’s events that run in conjunction with some of the WP Cycling League races on routes that are deemed easier and safer for young cyclist. From these events, scholars are chosen to represent Western Province at various CSA Youth Festivals around the country. WP Cycling have also recently joined forces with WP MTB to establish a single online presence. The early part of 2017 is dominated by fun rides and training towards the SA Road and Time Trial Championship at Lady Loch near Wellington from 7-12 February 2017, as well as the Cape Town Cycle Tour. Due to a recent decline in the number of road races, the WP Cycling league was initiated by the WPCA who represents 24 cycling clubs within the Cape Town area. The aim is to improve the standard of competitive cycling in the region and to prepare aspiring riders for international participation.
Photo: Bestmed Tour of Good Hope - Photo Credit: Warren Elsom/Capcha Photography
There are a number of iconic climbs on the route, including Du Toitskloof Pass and the well-known Four Passes Route, which goes over the Helshoogte, Sir Lowry’s, Viljoen’s and Franschhoek passes. The Best young rider in 2017 will received the first white jersey on Tour. The white jersey will also act as the official merchandise jersey for the Tour. The Overall Leader will receive the yellow jersey, King of the Mountains will wear Red and lastly the leader in points will receive the pink jersey. The Bestmed Tour of Good Hope’s international reputation was further enhanced with confirmation that five-time Cape Epic champion Karl Platt will be on the start line. The German will lead a strong team in South Africa’s premier road stage race.
The league has grown from 150 cyclists in 2015 to 650 cyclists in 2016, where 22 events where hosted from March to August last year. Racing is organized by the Road Commission of Western Province with assistance from affiliated clubs, the Winelands Cycling Association and their affiliated clubs, as well as the West Coast Cycling Association and their affiliated clubs. All disciplines of road cycling are catered for. Racing takes the form of traditional road races over distances in excess of 100 kilometres, circuit races, criteriums and time trials. For 2017, racing will again be divided into 3 different categories where the same standard of cyclists competes against each other without taking age into account. Category 1 is for the top racing cyclists from the age of 17 and older, whilst Category 2 is a slight step down in standard from Category 1 and is aimed at talented cyclist also from the age of 17 and older. Category 3 is an inter club competition for bona fide members of clubs affiliated to CSA, novice racers and those who are still competitive but are unable to dedicate their time to train.
Cape Town Cycle Tour and national road champion An-Li Kachelhoffer has also set her sights squarely on conquering the Bestmed Tour of Good Hope in March. The 29-year-old all-rounder, who represented the country in the Olympic Games road race in Rio, said she was keen to target stage races. Kachelhoffer is looking forward to working with Team Bestmed-ASG, re-igniting a relationship which started in 2013 before she pursued other avenues. With her husband, Hanco, having taken a position with ASG Sports in Paarl, the team’s equipment sponsors, Kachelhoffer said it made sense to re-join the team. Kachelhoffer felt being part of the team would allow her to focus more on her riding. She said it was the perfect training ground to demonstrate what riders could expect in Europe, where there is much greater focus on stage racing. For more information visit www.www.asgevents.co.za/tourofgoodhope/
Western Cape Road Champs
The Western Cape Road and Time Trial Champs returned to Oudtshoorn on 28-29 January 2017 and took place at Highgate Ostrich Farm. The morning’s road race started off with a light drizzle, but soon cleared. A light breeze kept things cool for the riders. The racing was fierce and all the categories were well contested. Even though the rain scared off a few riders, more than 200 riders entered the event. The Elite and U/23 category raced together and resulted in a 5-man sprint to the Finish line, which was won by Jade Julius of Alpha Bodyworks, followed by Ruan du Plooy of Giant. In third and fourth place was the first u/23 rider, Morné van Niekerk, and second, Ivan Venter of Team LEADout Aspire.
Photo Credit: Western Province Cycling Association
WP Cycling encourages the Elite and Sub Veterans to ride in Category 1, Veterans in Category 2 and Masters in Category 3. WPCA is working hard towards the goal of having a dedicated Ladies Category, but they are encouraged to ride in Category 3 until a Ladies Category is realised. The Ladies will have their own competition, podium and prize fund. The points system will for Category 1 and 2 will be performance based, while in Category 3 points for club and team participation will be dominant. This year bonus points will also be awarded for clubs having females competing. Points are awarded for all finishers and accumulated over the season to determine the overall winner of each category at the end of the season. The first 6 events for the 2017 season have been applied for and WPCA awaits event permission from the events office. Some of the first events for 2017 include the following: 11 Feb 2017 - 99’er Road Race - The 99’er is a new addition to the calendar and WPCA look forward to building a solid relationship with the organisers of the event. Cyclist times will count towards their WP seeding for the rest of the league season and will also score points towards the leaderboard.
In the Junior category the Alfa Bodyworks riders dominated the race with Abdul-Mutalib Sauls taking the win, Imraam Gasant was in second place, and Tashreeq Fataar took third. With the South African Championships coming up in less than two weeks’ time, this was the perfect opportunity to test their legs. Corné Bence, Western Cape Chairman thanked every rider for making the effort to come to the event, and wished everyone the best of luck with the SA Champs.
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18 Feb 2017 - Saldanha Bay/Sports Trust - Road Race. 130km for Cat 1 and 2, 80km for Cat3 and all scholars. All youth riders of 18 or younger ride for free. 4 March 2017 - Century City Criterium Race - The event is hosted as part of the annual Century City Sports Festival. Cycling is just one of the events hosted by the center during that weekend and it is a technical circuit with cobble stone sections, enquire on entry fee, racing license, timing system, registration and race entries can be done online. For more information visit www.wpcycling.com
APPAREL
PRECISION ENGINEERED CYCLING APPAREL
Innovation is a theme that touches on every aspect of Ciovita. From the leading edge design of their kits, to the state of the art production facilities where they are created, Ciovita understand that the only way to stay relevant in the fast paced and ever changing sport of cycling is to keep moving forward.
Founded, and run, by like-minded individuals with a wealth of experience in the sportswear and fashion industries, Ciovita was created to set a new benchmark in boutique cycling kit designed for high performance athletes.
DISCOVER PRECISION ENGINEERED CYCLING APPAREL
Ciovita’s commitment to innovation is never more apparent than in their boutique core range, which seamlessly integrates the latest fabric technology and design advancements from around the world. Each item in this range is the culmination of months of planning, design and rigorous testing by the company itself, and their team of professional riders. That’s why they say that the core range wasn’t sewn or stitched, instead it was precision engineered. It is the only way to describe the meticulous planning, design and refinement of each and every item. One example is the Corsa Bib Short, with Italian Lycra panels that dynamically respond to your body movements, as well as the custom designed and race tested 3-layer chamois pad, which is specifically designed to help you go faster for longer.
Ciovita means Life in Motion and this philosophy underpins their approach to an industry that is always pushing itself to go further and faster. FORM FOLLOWS FUNCTION
Their Flagship Aero Mesh Jersey also represents the cutting edge in cycling technology, not only in its skin-tight and responsive fit, but in its ultra-breathable and lightweight 100% Polygiene Polyester Mesh construction, which allows unparalleled control over your body temperature as you ride.
Their desire to lead from the front is immediately clear when you ride in Ciovita kit. Combining technology with craftsmanship; every fabric and material used has been hand selected, and every precise stitch has been counted, to ensure they consistently create apparel they can be proud of.
Another highly innovative product is the Vindex 2 in 1 Jersey/Gilet, made from high tech Vita-Tex, which offers excellent elemental protection, while still remaining lightweight.
Drawn from a wide range of disciplines, the highly skilled team shares decades of combined experience in the design and manufacture of high performance sportswear. And if they have learned anything from this time in the industry, it’s that the only way to guarantee exceptional quality, is to handle every facet of production, from conceptual design, through to the final stitch, in-house.
What makes this jacket’s design so special are the magnetic snap on/snap off sleeves, which are locked in place and can be removed easily while still in the saddle. These are just a few of the items available in their core range, to see more visit their online store at Photos: Bib Shorts, Aero Mesh Jersey & Vindex 2 in 1 Jacket www.ciovita.com. FOR RIDERS BY RIDERS
Photo: The Team behind breakout cycling apparel company, Ciovita
That’s why they set up their state of the art production facilities, which feature some of the most advanced, high tech machinery available in the industry. It is this combination of highly skilled staff and high-tech production that allows Ciovita to produce custom orders for teams (including a large number of Cape Epic 2017 teams) and corporates of just about any size without ever compromising on quality. Ciovita works with each custom client to ensure they understand their requirements and offer a full design service to get each kit looking just right. Creative clients can also make use of their innovative design app on their website, which allows visitors to design their own kit using a range of templates, colours and fonts.
Ciovita was founded with the vision to make the kind of kit they love to ride in. They believe that it is this passion, blended with their unique approach to innovation, which really sets them apart from other manufacturers. And it is also why so many pro cyclists are turning to Ciovita to meet their precise and exacting kit requirements.
Photo: Jarrod van der Heever
Ciovita has a team of professional riders who are actively involved in the development of their range. Team Ciovita compete in a range of disciplines around the world, and are on the road or the mountain almost every day pushing their limits, and the limits of their kit.
Photo: Marianne Bergli
A few of their sponsored riders for 2017 include the Junior South African Mountain Bike Champion Jarrod van der Heever, who currently holds a UCI ranking of 24; Enduro rider Matt Beers, who will be teaming up with Swiss star Konny Looser for this year’s Cape Epic; International Enduro competitor, Matt Lombardi; and Norwegian rider Marianne Bergli.
Ciovita believe that no matter where the sport goes next, the driving philosophy of constant innovation will always remain at the heart of their business. As they say, “We never stop testing; we never stop tweaking; we never stop learning; and we never stop searching. We never stop. It’s right there in our name.” Photos: Ciovita’s state of the art production facilities feature some of the most technology advanced machinery available & Clients wishing to express their creative side are able to contribute to the design process through an advanced interactive web app
If you are looking to explore Ciovita’s core range, or to have them quote on a custom design, visit their website www.ciovita.com today Photos Courtesy: Ewald Sadie
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MTB
ABSA CAPE EPIC 2017 - ALL OUT CHALLENGE FROM RETURNING LEGEND & TO LOCALS SEEKING GLORY! Why did Christoph Sauser come out of retirement? Swiss mountain biking maestro Christoph Sauser has come out of retirement in a bid to win the Absa Cape Epic for a sixth time, so what was it that persuaded him to get back in the saddle?
Photo: Christoph Sauser - Photo Credit: Mark Sampson/Cape Epic/SPORTZPICS
Based in Stellenbosch when he is in South Africa, Sauser often trains in the areas where races are staged. Back in South Africa Sauser won both the Attakwas Extreme MTB, and the Grabouw leg of the National MTB Series. Next he will be in action at the Tankwa Trek, which he will ride with New Zealander Sam Gaze. He is looking forward to the “challenge of winning the Tour de France of mountain biking”, raising awareness for the songo.info charity and having “the very best team and equipment supporting us.” Time for locals to set sight on yellow jersey @ Absa Cape Epic No all-African team has won the Absa Cape Epic since it was launched back in 2004, but Philip Buys and Matthys Beukes want to change that in the not too distant future. “I think we have matured enough as a team and partnership to set the Cape Epic win as our ultimate goal for the next few years,” Buys says. “We will be disappointed (this year) with anything less than an overall podium and the Absa African jersey.” The distinctive red jersey in question goes to the first all-African team to finish the event and has become fiercely-contested in recent years. Former Olympian Buys and his partner Matthys Beukes will be riding under the Team Pyga Euro Steel flag in 2017.
“Jaroslav (Kulhavy) asked me a few times during the year to race with him again. It began to make me think, and then,when I started to train for the Wines2Whales in October, I realised that I quickly gained shape like in previous years,” Sauser says. Czech Kulhavy was, of course, Sauser’s partner in two of his victories and will be at his side on March 19 as Team Investec Songo Specialized. Backing them will be two highly accomplished support teams, which Sauser says was also a factor in making him decide to race again. Sauser’s comments on how he feels after his year-long break from competition also leave you in little doubt: “I have never been more motivated – meaning I am fresh in my mind and my body,” he says. Asked if being the first to six wins was a factor in his return, Sauser says his yearning to succeed remained the same as when he first took the title back in 2006. “The sixth (win) is for the books and statistics … which I am sure will make me proud when I’m looking back.” The Sauser and Kulhavy combination has won both of the Cape Epics they have competed in, and the Swiss legend has described his partner as perhaps the most powerful cyclist he has ever ridden alongside. Sauser says winning would “probably need the same strengths as two years ago, but the big difference will be the density of the field … there are many more teams with backups.” He will be able to fall back on his extensive knowledge of the Western Cape, where he spends chunks of time throughout the year. “It will be my first time racing properly in Hermanus and I am looking forward to it. Greyton I know from the 2014 Absa Cape Epic and Grabouw I know like my own pocket from previous Epics and especially the Wines2Whales.”
Cape Town Cycle Tour
Photo Credit: Dom Barnardt/Cape Epic/SPORTZPICS
Their biggest challengers for the Absa African special jersey are likely to be Waylon Woolcock and HB Kruger (Team BCX), who will bring a compelling combination of experience and youth to the event. This year they will face a fired up Woolcock and Kruger in the battle for the red jersey. In 2016 Woolcock and Darren Lill took the jersey home at the fourth time of trying. Woolcock has been at or near the top of the South African tree for many years and his experience at the Absa Cape Epic should prove invaluable to younger partner Kruger, who pulled out of his first event last year after being felled by a virus. “The African Jersey is top priority and whatever overall position comes along with that,” Woolcock says. “Last year I was secretly hoping for a top five and we missed that by one place. This year I feel the overall competition is a lot stronger so it’s going to be interesting.”
Tankwa Trek MTB
MTB Challenge The 2017 Cape Town Cycle Tour MTB Challenge is taking place over the weekend of 4-5 March 2017 at Stellenbosch’s Le Bonheur Wine Estate. The Cape Town Cycle Tour MTB Challenge annually kicks off the Cape Town Cycle Tour Lifecycle Week. Each year the event can be counted on to deliver loads of outdoor fun for families as well as the more serious technical off-road riders. Each route boasts varying degrees of intensity, designed by Dirtopia’s trail-building. On Saturday, 4 March 2017, riders can have fun with the 14km, 20km and 30km trails. These three distances are shorter than Sunday’s routes and perfect for families and those still honing their MTB skills. Be warned that these routes are still challenging, so be prepared to work up a sweat. Sunday, 5 March 2017, is aimed at more experienced riders who are looking to put their skills to the test. Cyclists can choose between either the 40km or the 55km routes and both distances promise participants a technically challenging ride.
Photo: Tankwa Trek MTB - Photo Credit: Zoon Cronje
The Tankwa Trek MTB three-day race, which was only established in 2013, has rapidly become one of the most prestigious mountain bike races in South Africa. This has resulted in the event attracting premium brand sponsors, Momentum Health and Biogen, as well as the awarding of UCI status from 2017. The race is held in the Kouebokkeveld from 9-12 March 2017, where there is significant elevation to ensure long, difficult climbs and descents as well as rugged, challenging terrain. This tests allround ability in riders, not just endurance as with most other three-day stage races. A high percentage of singletrack changes the dynamic of a mountain bike race, favouring those that are more complete mountain bikers over those that have a largely road cycling background.
Participants who enter and complete both the 2017 Cape Town Cycle Tour and 2017 Cape Town Cycle Tour MTB Challenge (55km route) within the allotted time, qualify for a combo medal. Entries close on Monday, 20 February 2017 at 5pm. For more information visit www.capetowncycletour.com
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On Day 2 the Merino Monster challenges the competitors well beyond their comfort zones. Essentially a 20km climb with 1000m of vertical ascent, the Merino Monster is followed by a thrilling 20-plus minute technical descent and generally has a strong influence on the outcome of the overall race results in all categories. The 2017 Momentum Tankwa Trek will also have expanded media coverage, including live streaming video coverage. For more information visit www.tankwatrek.co.za
CYCLING TOURS
Cycling the EuroVelo8 in The Med Cyprus is a very popular choice not only because of the affordable investment entry-level to secure residency, but also because of the following 7 benefits: 1. Cyprus is economically stable and politically secure – the country is not flooded with refugees. 2. Three generations in the same family (including parents and in-laws) secure permanent residency status FOR LIFE in 4 – 6 weeks through the purchase of a single property.
Due to its ideal weather for cycling, especially in the months between October and April, Cyprus has taken off as a destination for cycling enthusiasts both as a place to enjoy the sport and as a means to explore the island. The third largest island in the Mediterranean, Cyprus combines attractive beaches with pine-clad peaks, busy modern towns and tranquil old stone villages, vineyards and olive groves and ancient monuments. Cyprus is part of the co-funded project “EUROVELO8” which develops and promotes national, regional and trans-national cycling tourism packages along the “European Mediterranean Route EuroVelo 8” – and is one of the 14 routes that connects 11 countries.
3. The whole family can get EU passports in 3 months via Cyprus’ “Citizenship through Investment” programme – and dependent children up to 28 years of age also qualify! This is the quickest way to get unlimited access to Europe for life! 4. Properties in Cyprus offer excellent value for money when compared to other European countries – especially homes right on or near to The Med. The lush & beautiful Western side of the country is similar to the Western Cape and enjoys the biggest demand and highest growth.
EuroVelo 8 Sparkling emerald seas, kilometres of golden sand, mysterious islands, wonderful food, ancient cities…it’s not hard to find convincing reasons to travel along the Mediterranean! And what better way to do it then by bike along the roughly 5,900 km long Mediterranean Route? EuroVelo 8 connects many destinations that are popular tourist attractions in their own right: Barcelona, Monaco, Venice, the Croatian Coast, Cyprus – the list goes on. It is little surprise therefore that the Mediterranean Route receives more interest than any other EuroVelo route. And whilst many of it’s destinations are already internationally famous, there are still lots of undiscovered gems to be found along the way - so what are you waiting for! Tour statistics : 5,888km long, 11 countries, 23 World Heritage Sites, 712 species of fish, Delicious cuisine, and Sublime scenery. Fore more information visit: www.eurovelo8.com YOUR PLAN B IN CYPRUS Not only does Cyprus offer a plethora of outdoor activities, but currently has THE BEST permanent residency programme on offer where THREE generations of the same family all secure permanent residency FOR LIFE through the purchase of a single property! No other country in Europe offers this! And their 2 citizenship through investment programme is acknowledged as the best on offer because it is the quickest programme in Europe (passports are issued in 3 months); and dependent children up to the age of 28 also qualify! nd
LOGO
5. The lifestyle is similar to South Africa : the golf courses are world-class, the countryside is breathtakingly beautiful and Cyprus has 57 blue-flag status beaches, the cleanest seas in the Med and a mountain-range where it snows for 3 months. 6. No inheritance tax: on your death you can dispose of your assets to your loved ones without having to pay any tax. This is advantageous for legacy planning. 7. There are no social problems in Cyprus: no car guards, shanty towns or people living below the poverty line; and because of this Cyprus has huge appeal as a destination for relocation, retirement, holiday-making and investment.
Jenny Ellinas Founder of Cypriot Realty
Some other attractions that Cyprus offers are: a. being an ex-British colony, there is no language barrier – everyone speaks English; b. you can rent out your property to earn a Euro-based income; c. low cost of living; d. Euro-accredited education gives your children a distinct advantage when they enter the global job market; e. Europe on your doorstep: Cyprus has 2 International Airports and several marinas; f. 1st world medical facilities & affordable healthcare with highly qualified doctors & specialists. Contact us for a confidential meeting to discuss how Europe can fit in with your offshore plans – we will assist and guide you every step of the way to realise Your Plan B.
In Cyprus, not only is there no inheritance tax applicable, but the cost of living and the property ownership costs are a fraction of what we pay in South Africa. Being voted THE SAFEST country in the world with a population of under 5Million – investing in Cyprus is a good option.
c ypriot y pr iot
Realty
YOUR KEY TO LIVING IN BEAUTIFUL CYPRUS
For more information contact Jenny Ellinas on +27 83 448 8734 email jenny@cypriotrealty.com Visit www.cypriotrealty.com
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GENERAL
FIRE RUN SERIES TO SUPPORT REBUILDING OF BIKE PARK
As many of you may know, the devastating fires of 3 January 2017 have destroyed more than 90% of trails, and caused millions in damages to the trails and obstacles at the True Grit Bike Park, located at the Knorhoek Estate in Sir Lowry’s Pass. As a result, the True Grit Bike Park had to refocus, and make some difficult decisions with regard to their losses. They had relinquished their much loved external trails, and instead concentrated all their energy on rebuilding the Blue Route, the Kiddies Route and the establishment of a new YBike Kiddies Skills Circuit, with limited resources at their disposal.
South African Women Cyclists At WCC In Egypt
The African Cycling Confederation has invited three young South African women cyclists to take part in a Road Training Camp with the World Cycling Centre Africa in Sharm ElSheikh, from 22 January - 9 February. Ashleigh Parsons, Danielle van Niekerk, and Jennifer Abbot set off to the training camp in the north of the continent which aims to improve the skills, technique and level of female cyclists in Africa. High-level coaching and performance evaluation are two major focuses of the camp. Parsons said that hearing that she had been offered the opportunity to go was the best news ever. Having never been to Egypt, Parsons is overwhelmed and beyond excitement.
As the Blue Route is not safe for cycling, the aim of True Grit Bike Park is to introduce a Fire Run series over the four Sundays in February, commencing on 5 February with a Walk/Run event that will stretch over 5km on the Blue Route to generate income to keep their doors open, and to rebuild what was lost in the fire. The new YBike Kiddies Skills Track will be launched on 5 of February at True Grid Bike Park Fire Run. It will be the first specifically designed and built Kiddies Skills Track for 1 – 5 year olds in the Helderberg. This facility will be fenced in to keep the kiddies safe, while mom and dad relax at the coffee bar. There will be a picnic spot with shading and green grass inside the Skills Track so moms and dads can relax, while they watch their little ones. Food stalls will be available, while a Jumping Castle and a Slippy Slide will be set up to entertain the Kiddies. “Come join us for our very first Park Run the Fire Run, on Sunday the 5th of February 2017.” Entries are limited therefore, booking is essential. For more information contact 021 8581822 or visit www.www.truegrit.bike
CycleKiDS Full Moon Ride
The 17 year-old does not have a specific skill that she would like to work on, she simply wants to learn as much as she can, and gain as much knowledge as she can about the sport during her Photo L - R: Ashleigh Parsons, stay at the camp. Danielle van Niekerk, and Jennifer Abbot Although never having been to Egypt before, Danielle van Niekerk is no stranger to the climate, having lived in Dubai for eight years before moving back to her hometown, Johannesburg. Being skilled on both the road and track bike (holding six national track titles), Van Niekerk is truly beginning to find her feet in the sport. Van Niekerk is looking forward to the valuable lessons to be learnt at the training camp as a first year Elite that she feels she wouldn’t be able to learn back home alone. Jennifer Abbot, who also joins van Niekerk and Parsons, participated in a highlevel track training camp and the UCI World Cycling Centre in Switzerland last year, and this years adventure will undoubtedly contribute greatly to her climbing success as a young woman cyclist in South Africa.
“THE REAL CONNECTION
Kids absolutely love to cycle – it’s fast and fun, and gives them a sense of freedom and independence. It allows them to explore the outdoors, connect with friends and develop confidence and physical literacy. The CycleKiDS campaign aims to inspire and empower more kids and parents to start cycling in Cape Town!
People are taking decisive action to help us live longer and at the same time, advances in medicine and nutrition are also helping us extend our lives.
Join the next full moon, fun ride for kids, kids at heart, and their families taking place on 11 February from 6:30 pm - 7:00 pm at Rondebosch Common. It’s a fun, safe way of introducing children to cycling and getting the whole family out and about.
But here’s an important thought: if you’re taking action to live a longer life, but you’re not getting yourself financially prepared for a longer life, you’re only getting half the job done. After all, do you see yourself as one of those cool grandmas scooting around town on a Vespa or well…not?
Can the whole family join in? - Yes! This is a family friendly ride that encourages safe cycling. The aim is to create awareness for the growing presence of kids and families on bikes, and the need for all road users to respect other users of the road. They are also bringing together families who bike, providing a positive community experience to show children how much fun riding your bike can be!
Likewise if you do not look after your nutrition, especially while exercising, you are also only doing half a job!
BETWEEN HEALTH & WEALTH = #WHASP”
Investing into your exercise, diet supported by proper nutrition, has a similar effect to investing with money but has a physical impact rather than financial impact, hence the strong connection! Rockfin Wealth Management - our philosophy: Healthy and Wealthy go together. The Whasp Sport Nutrition philosophy is to build a trusted health and sport nutrition brand, providing quality formulated products and expanding awareness of health in general to all walks of life, inspiring more to adopt a healthy lifestyle. We have taken a stance against common sugars and have excluded it from all our formulations and make use of patented ingredients to ensure products of the highest quality.
Photo: CycleKiDS Ride - Photo Credit: David Malan
Is the ride safe? - Absolutely. The ride is around Rondebosch Common. This is a traffic free pedestrian and cycle route. However, you should still be very aware of your own child’s location and behaviour as you are ultimately responsible for your child’s safety and ensuring they ride safely. How long are the rides? - The ride is short, typically 2.5 km at a 8-10km/h pace around the Rondebosch Common. It lasts about 1/2 – 1 hour with stops and depending on how many laps of the Common the kids want to do. Are kids on balance bikes, training wheels or tricycles allowed? - Rides are suitable for kids on using training wheels, balance bikes or those who are riding their own bike. Skateboards and anything else that rolls are welcome too!
We are firm believers that having a balanced life means investing in yourself - the returns are always worth the effort. To enjoy your Rockfin Wealth you need to adopt and maintain a healthy lifestyle during your Wealth building period to have true benefit of you Wealth. The question is what is the point of reaching retirement if you cannot enjoy your hard earned money because you did not invest in your health in the process? Pierre du Plooy – Brand Owner of Whasp Sport Nutrition “Healthy and Wealthy go together - Whasp and Rockfin, an expert combination”
Do parents have to cycle to? - Parents are encouraged to cycle, but it is acceptable if they prefer not to ride with. Volunteers on the ride who will guide the kids round the Common and lots of park benches for waiting parents. Other ride Ride Guidelines: Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Please wear helmets (if you have) and ride safely. Bring a light and for fun you can wear glow bands or reflective wear. Younger children are welcome on tag-along-bikes, child trailers, cargo bikes and child seats of their parent’s bike.
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For more information visit www.bicyclecapetown.org
Tel: 083 334 1935 • info@whasp.co.za • www.whasp.co.za
Tel: 087 135 4107 • info@rockfin.co.za • www.rockfin.co.za
GENERAL
Heart Transplantee to Take on Two of South Africa’s Premier Events Elmar Sprink (45), a heart transplantee from Köln (Germany) will be seen in action at two of South Africa’s premier outdoor sporting events: the Sanlam Cape Mile and the Fedhealth XTERRA in Grabouw on Sunday, 19 February and Saturday, 25 February respectively, this in the year that marks the 50th anniversary of the first human-to-human heart transplant operation. According to Sprink, after his heart transplant in June 2012, he had to once again learn how to sit, stand up and walk. “After having spent half a year in bed, I found that swimming was the perfect way to start training my muscles again. In January 2013 I started to jog, but only 700m at a time. It was then that I decided to return to triathlon racing as an attempt to create awareness around organ donation in Germany.
Elite Race To Be Held
The Week Before Absa Cape Epic in 2018 The Western Cape has landed another world cycling showpiece event – the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup presented by Shimano race. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) series attracts the crème de la crème of international cross country mountain biking and tens of thousands of spectators to its races around the world. The South African leg will open the 2018 season and take place on March 10th on the slopes of the Coetzenburg mountain in Stellenbosch. The event will be staged by Grandstand Management, the Cape Town-based company that operates and manages the Absa Cape Epic, the world’s foremost mountain bike stage race. “This is great news for our sport and the region,” said Absa Cape Epic and Grandstand Management CEO Lynn Naudé. These races are televised live to many countries around the world and attract significant media attention.”
My highlights are having taken part in Ironman Hawaii in 2014 and the Transalpine Run in 2016.” “Partaking in sport helps to minimise the side effects of the medication that heart transplantees have to take,” continues Sprink. “In my case it also helps a lot from a psychological aspect.” “The Sanlam Cape Mile will be a good test before the Fedhealth XTERRA Grabouw which is a nice combination of swimming, mountain biking and trail running. As with all the other events that I have participated in with my new heart, my goal for both the Cape Mile and XTERRA will be to have fun and cross the finish line.” “I am really looking forward to being in South Africa, enjoying the land and meeting new people.” For more information visit www.stillwatersports.com
At the back of the #hellofthesouth
When you have five Attakwas Extreme MTB challenges under the belt, and four of those you’ve completed, you should know better than to go into this race unprepared. Maybe I am a bit harsh on myself, but judging by most of the races I’ve entered, my training would have been more than adequate. The Attakwas Extreme MTB is however not your average race, neither is the route, the race organizers, or the MC. In 2016, I was disappointment when I could not complete the race and I missed out on the “Ratel” status. For those who don’t know, five time finishers of this challenge are honoured as “Ratels”. I did not plan to do the race again in 2017 and thought the “Ratel” status was not such a big deal. In December 2016, I found out that my son, who entered, was unable to take-up the challenge. I knew I had to step in and take on the #hellofthesouth once again. From my first event in 2011, riding the extreme race has been about the adventure, testing myself, and proving that if you apply your mind to something you can succeed. Pushing your body and mind to the limits once in a while, does wonders for the self-esteem. When I finished this year’s race Carel #Raasbekkie Bezuidenhout, the MC welcomed me back at the finish line. I felt a sense of accomplishment. Finishing my 5th Attakwas Extreme MTB was very satisfying, and yes, it was a big deal. Even though I was part of the last riders passing the finish line, there was a great vibe to be enjoyed. It is not often that the backmarkers are treated in a way which feels, and maybe I’m mistaken, but it feels like I’m a top 10 finisher.
Photo: UCI Mountain Bike World Cup - Photo Credit: Michal Cerveny
Alan Winde, Minister of Economic Opportunities, welcomed the news. “My aim is to ensure that the Western Cape becomes Africa’s premier cycling destination. Securing the 2018 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup opener is a major victory in this quest. By showcasing the beauty and sophistication of our trails, this event will stimulate international interest in our province as a bucket-list cycling destination. My hope is that cycle tourism becomes a major revenue and job creator for our region,” said Minister Winde. The UCI Mountain Bike World Cup presented by Shimano consists of eight rounds around the world. Riders are given points based on their results and at the end of the year the competitor with the most accumulated points is declared the winner. Four races will be held in their respective categories on March 10th – the men’s and women’s elite events and corresponding under-23 races. The races will be held eight days before the start of the Absa Cape Epic and the day before the Cape Town Cycle Tour. South Africa previously staged an UCI World Cup race in Pietermaritzburg in 2014. “There are thousands of cyclists in the Western Cape at the time, and we hope many will take the opportunity to watch the world’s best in action at Coetzenburg,” said Naudé. Cross country races are held over several laps of a physically demanding course, which typically includes technical descents, forest track, rocky paths, and natural obstacles. Circuits range from four to ten kilometres each and racing varies from about one hour to two hours. The short nature of the courses mean exciting viewing for television and spectators. The 2018 race will start from the University of Stellenbosch, on to the cross-country course on the Coetzenburg Mountain. A course already exists on the slopes and has hosted a national championship, but will be upgraded by Grandstand Management. Naudé pointed out that securing the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup presented by Shimano round was aligned with Grandstand Management’s growth strategy as an event business, and they are naturally delighted to have secured such a prestigious race for the region. She said the benefits for the region would include: bringing the world’s best riders to a passionate South African mountain biking audience; showcasing the region as an ideal destination for major sporting events, and promoting a cycling culture and all the health and economic benefits associated with it.
With only 946 riders finishing the race, the attrition rate was on the high side with around 1400 riders entering the race. More than half of the field crossed the finish line in the last 3 hours of the race, which must say something of how tough this challenge was. At the Top of the Attakwas, near the King of the Mountain, I was walking, something I did quite a bit of this year, along with a few other riders, also walking and talking about this race. At one stage one of the riders said, “Boys we should start riding again, we are walking on a flat section.” Yes, the Attakwaskloof messes with your mind and makes you do very strange things.
Completing this race is all about pacing yourself and refuelling your body properly. I took care of pacing myself wisely and the event organisers, Dryland, took care of the refueling. Everything was catered for the riders, except the eating and drinking itself. As a social rider, usually riding at the tail end of the bunches I make full use of this watering oasis’ and unlike the ‘pros’, we get very good value for our money. I am not convinced that I will be back next year. This race has soul and no matter how hard it was walking up that Attekwaskloof and climbing that 2900m accent, the urge will always remain with me to consider to take on this challenge again. For those reading my article and thinking: Why are we as mountain bikers putting ourselves through this much pain? The answer is easy: We are into cycling, it is a lifestyle, a passion, and a way to break away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Join the cycling revolution and start preparing for your Attakwas Extreme Challenge 2018! Article by Louis Visser
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
VIRGIN ACTIVE SHOWS MASSIVE INTEREST IN CYCLING During the Cape Epic, Virgin Active will be setting up Club-V kid’s facilities and activities at every race village to provide a safe and active space for children between 3 and 15. The company will also sponsor the Virgin Active Mixed Jersey which currently has 76 teams registered for the 2017 race. Many of these teams come from as far afield as Europe, North and South America, the Middle East and Asia. New Virgin Active Health Club For Somerset West Virgin Active Sanctuary opened its doors in November 2017. This cutting-edge 2400m² health club is located at the new Sanctuary Mall in Somerset West, making it ideal for a lunch-hour gym spot, an after-work traffic avoider as well as a club for those with a little more time on their hands – and active little ones to inspire! Virgin Active Sanctuary offers members state-of-the-art strength and cardio equipment, innovative functional training areas that include TRX suspension training, a unique twist on the regular circuit, a variety of classes including Yoga, Barre 180, Shape, and a spinning studio.
According to Ross Faragher-Thomas, Virgin Active SA Managing Director, the country’s biggest health club group has experienced a massive surge in interest in cycling in all its forms in the past decade and the health club partnership with the Cape Epic was a natural extension of that phenomenon: “We run over 2,000 bike classes every week nationwide and have made significant investments in cycling technology, including the installation of Wattbikes which are described as the world’s most intelligent exercise bikes because of their unique monitoring capabilities,” he says. The 2017 Absa Cape Epic from 19-26 March will be the 14th edition of a race which has become known as the “Tour de France” of mountain biking. Faragher-Thomas, says he’s “proud of, and very excited about, a long-term commitment to such a magnificent South African event with world stature”.
CHAMELEON AESTHETIC & LASER HAIR REMOVAL - THE EASY WAY
There’s free internet and Wi-Fi, luxury change rooms, a steam room, qualified personal trainers, Kauai Health Food Café, and a Club-V facility for active kids as well as 2-hour free parking facilities.
FASTER RECOVERY WHEN WEARING COMPRESSION!
Should I pack my compression? Yes, definitely! Playing competitive netball and working long hours at stage races is all I needed to know that Skins compression is an invaluable item on the packing list. What I find concerning is how many athletes of all disciplines that I massage are uninformed about compression. You will recover faster if you wear compression. Compression garments are right up there with your recovery drink. The two go hand in hand. By wearing compression for as little as 15min you will improve your circulation and oxygenation of your blood by 15% and toxin elimination by 10%. The thing is you won’t only be wearing it for 15min, I often sleep in mine after hard sessions or long days of standing. Training or racing hard causes Muscle Trauma, doesn’t matter how strong you are. While exercising, your muscles oscillate, which cause tiny tears or micro trauma. These tears swell and cause tenderness or pain depending on the severity of the tears. The most important thing you need to remember about your body, no matter what level you choose to compete on - no one wants to be injured. The pain, discomfort and frustration is not worth it. Trying to eliminate injury should be as important as never riding alone.
Why put up with the nuisance and pain of shaving or waxing your unwanted hair if you can have it removed pain-free and hassle-free by laser. No more shaving bumps, redness or ingrown hair. Chameleon Aesthetic & Laser, based in The Sanctuary Shopping Centre in Somerset West, offer the very latest technology in laser hair removal with their world-renowned, award winning Alma Sprano Ice diode laser (Not IPL). The Soprano Ice won the World best laser hair removal platform for two consecutive years for 2015 & 2016, and offers breakthrough client comfort, procedure speed and consistent efficiency and results. The exceptional procedure speed makes it possible to have your 1/2 leg including your knees done in your lunchtime, taking a mere 20 minutes, for both legs. Virtually pain-free permanent hair reduction is achieved with In-Motion technology with no burning, dermal damage, downtime or pigmentation. This laser is efficient on all skin types and all hair colour with the exception of grey hair. The laser shoots a beam of highly concentrated light into the hair follicle and destroys it completely. The process is repeated in a number of sessions around 6 weeks apart, and will get rid of around 90% of your hair. Pictured is Spook from DCS (Daisyway Coaching Systems), managed by Erica Green Groenewald and himself, receiving a laser hair removal treatment performed by Lilanie Joubert from Chameleon Aesthetic & Laser. Chameleon offer a free consultation and provide prospective customers a complimentary test patch to make sure their skin does not react to the laser. The prospect of never ever shaving or having ingrown hair again? Tell me you’re not smiling! Visit Chameleon Aesthetic & Laser on First Floor, Sanctuary Shopping Centre, Somerset West For more information contact 021 851 8434, lilanie@chameleonwellness.co.za or www.chameleonwellness.co.za
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Lower body compression supports and stabilizes the glutes, quads, hammies and calf muscles and speeds up recovery leaving you less likely to injure through muscle strains and tears. The gap jump... that might still injure you… When to wear compression? While travelling to a race or event I would strongly recommend wearing compression and if you’re flying use the B4 Play Facia release ball to prevent swelling and improve circulation and flexibility. Use compression after the race for about two hours to kick start your recovery, but you can also wear it overnight if you need. As a Skins Ambassador, I value the time that Skins spends on the research and development of their product. Skins, is for example, the only product who takes multiple readings of the human body in motion. Muscles in motion change shape because of the increased levels of oxygen fuelled blood. Wicking is also inherent in all Skins garments. Temperature regulation in athletes is of utmost importance so the skin must be kept dry and comfortable to regulate body temperature naturally. Get 20% discount on Skins compression garments at Transforma Life. All you need to do is email your details to Natasha with “Transforma Life Skins” as the email subject. (1 garment per voucher) T&C’s apply. Article by Natasha Theron For more information Contact Natasha Theron on 083 656 3770 or email: natasha@transformalife.co.za or visit www.transformalife.co.za
massage • exercise • nutrition
LIFESTYLE
Cycling with Open Streets In Cape Town The aim of Open Streets is to inspire the public to explore more of the city centre on foot or by bike with a range of other activities including skating, cricket, dancing, singing and performing, and playing Scrabble and other games in the street. The Pedal Power Association, the Bicycling Empowerment Network, Velokhaya Life Cycling Academy and Up Cycles also joined forces with OSCT. This initiative included a safe cycling school, free bike rides for children, bicycle parking, bike rentals and a bike bus. “Open Streets City Centre was everything we expected: from positive interaction on the street to amazing weather! As Councillor Brett Herron outlined during his speech at the opening ceremony, City of Cape Town wants to see this programme transition into a new phase where longer stretches of street enable people to move from A to B in non-motorised transport while connecting different communities,” says Marcela Guerrero Casas, Co-founder & Managing Director. Photo: Open Streets Cape Town - Photo Credit: Ference Isaacs Photography
“We were particularly glad to see active citizenship in action with the myriad of collaborators who brought positive, healthy, and interactive fun to the street.
Open Streets Day Cape Town was celebrated on 15 January 2017, when Bree Street and the section of Longmarket Street, between Bree and Adderley Streets were closed for traffic - an estimated 15 000 to 20 000 people experienced a partially car-free CBD.
“All of them contributed on a voluntary basis which highlights the power of creating an open platform. This in addition to the many volunteers who helped us run the day motivates us to continue growing the Open Streets movement in Cape Town,” she adds.
Cyclesure Keeps You In The Saddle
Cycling is a sport that takes commitment, preparation and substantial financial investment. And a lot can go wrong – which is why proper insurance cover is, simply, crucial.
Cyclesure, underwritten by Hollard Insurance, is South Africa’s leading provider of comprehensive, affordable insurance for cyclists. For the past 18 years it has provided unique benefits, including cover for equipment loss, accidents and trip cancellations. “Cycling equipment – especially if you are a competitive rider – can be prohibitively expensive, and losses through theft or accidents can be financially disastrous,” says Fred Hennings, managing director of Cyclesure. “Couple this with the fact that cycling is a risky sport and serious accidents do happen, as well as that riders often travel far – and pay handsomely – to participate in competitive events, and it’s clear that arranging proper insurance cover is the prudent thing to do.”
So if you are unable to travel to and take part in a pre-booked cycling event due to unforeseen circumstances, Cyclesure will cover you for your financial loss up to R10 000. And should you need additional cover for your next multi-stage tour, Cyclesure can offer top-up cover for an additional premium. Financial loss includes all non-refundable deposits for pre-paid accommodation, deposits, travel expenses and race entry fees. “We love cycling, too (many of our team are keen road cyclists and mountain-bikers), and we appreciate how much time, investment and effort it takes to get to an event finish line. So many things have to go right, yet so much can go wrong.” “So we’ve covered all the bases for cyclists, from their equipment being damaged or stolen to their being injured or unable to participate in an event for various reasons, and they’re covered both while they’re training and competing,” says Hennings.
Cyclesure’s insurance offering rests on three legs: bicycle cover, personal accident cover and trip cancellation cover. Bicycle cover includes the following: All risks for bicycle and accessories, based on replacement value; theft, hijacking, damage incurred in transit or while training; damage incurred during events, time trials or track events; legal liability; personal accident cover – death or permanent disability of R20 000 in respect of official racing events; medical benefits up to R2 000 for any accident in an official racing event; and trauma counselling benefit of R2 000 as a result of a violent theft, hold-up, hijacking or armed robbery, including while training. Unique to Cyclesure is the inclusion of Personal accident cover, for cyclists, which encompasses standard personal accident benefits such as: death, permanent total disability, temporary total disability, medical expenses, trip cancellation cover insures financial loss due to unforeseen illness, injury or death involving the insured cyclist, a travel companion or close relative; being made redundant; accidental damage, burglary, flooding or fire at the cyclist’s home while they are away, or within two days before their departure; the cyclist being subjected to compulsory quarantine; and a city on the cyclist’s itinerary suffering a terrorist attack. This new cover is a first for the industry for when you cannot start or finish your cycling trip, and even when you’re not on your bike but the trip is booked.
“Our market-leading insurance options minimise disruptions to our clients’ schedules and avoid hammer blows to their bank balances, keeping them where they should – and want to – be: in their saddles.” For more information visit www.cyclesure.co.za
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MULTISPORT
Discovery Get Active weekend in Cape Town
On 11-12 February 2017, Cape Town will play host to the Discovery Duathlon Cape Town and the Discovery Triathlon World Cup Cape Town.
Whether you’re a professional athlete or a newcomer to multisport, there is something indescribably enticing about combining two or more disciplines into one, exciting event. The Discovery Get Active weekend brings professional athletes and sport enthusiasts alike to experience a weekend of swimming, cycling, and running through the scenic Mother City. “The Discovery Get Active weekend is great way for people to experience the magic of multisport - whether this is their first race or their tenth race,” says Iona Maclean, Head of Experiential Marketing for Discovery. The 2017 World Cup circuit, sanctioned by the International Triathlon Union (ITU), will touch down in 17 cities, on five different continents. The Discovery Triathlon World Cup Cape Town promises to be the perfect multisport event for both high performance athletes, age groupers and novices. “The Discovery Triathlon World Cup Cape Town will be the first event on the Triathlon World Cup global calendar, kicking off the series as well as the 2017 multisport calendar in Cape Town. The earlier date ensures not only a warmer swim than in years past, but also great weather for supporters watching friends and family competing on the same course as the world’s top triathletes,” says Gary Marescia, Race Director. Making its debut in 2016, The Discovery Duathlon Cape Town returns to offer those interested in a multisport event, but perhaps wary of swimming, the opportunity to experience the run, cycle, run format. David Green, CEO V&A Waterfront says that it is a pleasure to host this international event for the fourth year. “This is not only a world class event that sees the top athletes in their discipline compete on our shores, but also puts our city and the V&A Waterfront on the world stage.’’ For more information on the Discovery Triathlon World Cup visit www.triathlon.capetown/ Discovery Duathlon Cape Town visit www.discoveryduathlon.com/
Olympian sets sights on XTERRA gold
One year after his Olympic Campaign, Richard Murray’s search for change has once again led him to the Fedhealth XTERRA Grabouw which is both the largest XTERRA in the world and the South African Championship.
Boasting a jam-packed programme for the entire family from of 24 – 26 February 2017, Fedhealth XTERRA Kids, 6-8 years (60m Swim, 2km MTB, 600m Trail Run), 9-11 years (100m Swim, 3km MTB, 1.5km Trail Run), 12-15 years (250m Swim, 5km MTB, 2.5km Trail Run) will take place on 24 February. Murray will take on the Fedhealth XTERRA SA Championship on Saturday, 25 February 2017, while the Fedhealth XTERRA Lite: 400m swim, 12.5km MTB, 5km trail run is scheduled for the 26 February. “I am looking for some change this season,” says Murray. “I chose the Fedhealth XTERRA Grabouw because it is the largest XTERRA in the world, it’s only a 1 hour drive from my home and the ambiance is great. I enjoy the mountain bike discipline the most. The rock garden is quite a challenge. I look forward to prepping my bike for this event. I love the run. It has everything one could expect from a good course including trails, hills and even a water crossing. I will race in Abu Dhabi the weekend after XTERRA Grabouw. So my goal for XTERRA SA will be to race within myself. I would love both a podium finish and to qualify for the World Championship.” “I definitely underestimated the XTERRA World Championship in 2013,” continues Murray. “I placed 12th overall on the day. This year I want to win. I’d love to be the XTERRA Champion in 2017.”
Photo: Richard Murray - Photo Credit: Kolesky/Nikon/Red Bull Content Pool
For more information visit www.stillwatersports.com
021 880 0799 33 Canterbury Lane info.stellenbosch@specialized.com Paradyskloof www.specialized-stellenbosch.com Stellenbosch
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CYCLING EVENTS
2017 TransCape MTB
99er Road Race 2017
TransCape MTB is an iconic seven-day South African mountain biking journey. The Event takes place from the 5 -11 February 2017 and covers 675km taking 130 intrepid adventurers over seven incredible stages and 12 000m of vertical ascent from the picturesque Garden Route town of Knysna to Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands. It’s an all-inclusive, unforgettable luxury off-the-bike experience and an incredibly rewarding on-the-bike journey over some of the finest mountain-biking terrain in the country. TransCape is a full service tour. All on and off-the-bike needs are met, including on-road nutritional, technical and medical support, three meals a day, delightful hotel and guest house accommodation and all transfers between overnight spots and stage starts and finishes. Photo Credit: Western Province Cycling Association
The 99er Cycle Tour, now in its 19th year, forms part of the Western Province Cycling League and is the first race of the 2017 season. The event will take place on 11 February 2017 at Durbanville Race course with the legendary climbs of Vissershok and Odendaal providing a great challenge to cyclists.
Photo: TransCape MTB - Photo Credit: Jacques Marais
The field is limited to 130 riders. The route for TransCape2017, which takes place from 5-13 February, has been unveiled and their route crew have done a marvellous job in again securing some of the finest mountain-biking terrain on their journey from Kynsna to Franschhoek. For more information visit www.transcapemtb.co.za
Trans Outeniqua 3 Day MTB
The 99er is the third largest cycle race in the Western Cape and creates an excellent preparation opportunity for riders participating in the The Cape Town Cycle Tour in March. The race is organized and hosted by the El Shaddai Christian School in Durbanville with the event being the main fund raising activity for the school. There are over 350 volunteers involved including parents, staff, pupils, alumni and past parents on race day. About R50 000 was donated to the 4 charities supported by the 99er in 2016. Online entries for this seeding race close 23h59 on 6 February 2017 and is subject to availability. Late entries can also be done at a number collection points or on race day, but will not be seeded. For more information contact 011 707 4716 or 087 940 0497
Herald Continental Cycle Tour “The much anticipated 32nd edition of The Herald Continental Cycle Tour promises to be the best festival of cycling in Nelson Mandela Bay yet, with the exciting addition of the Team Relay Challenge on 25 February. The tag team relay is designed for everyone who is keen to jump on their bicycle and have some fun! The new race village at Pollok beach area will boast a variety of food trucks, a first class beer hall and great live entertainment. It will be the place to be on the 25-26 February to celebrate an epic weekend of racing. South Africa’s best cyclists will once again ensure there is plenty of action to follow on the road and trails during this year’s elite race. Team Relay Challenge entries are very limited, complete your entry online. No late/manual entries will be accepted online or at Race Pack Collection. Entrants must collect their own race packs and sign upon registration to complete their entry.
Photo: Trans Outeniqua 3 Day MTB - Photo Credit: Trisport
The Trans Outeniqua 3 day MTB tour, a Scenic Mountain bike tour in the Garden Route will start at Pine Creek River Resort in Great-Brak River from 17-19 February 2017. The route will take you over 3 mountain ranges, the Langeberg Mountains, the Rooi Berge and the Outeniqua Mountains. It is a circular route of 3 days of exhilarating riding along and over mountains. The distance covered will be as follow: Day 1: 136km; Day 2: 80km and Day 3: 120km. The Trans Outeniqua 3 day MTB is a great long distance training event before the Cape Epic, but doable for the intermediate to fit mountain biker, without any technical riding. The accommodation provided is 4 star and include a 30 minute massage on the Friday and Saturday after the ride. For more information visit www.trisport.co.za
Photo Credit: Herald Continental Cycle Tour
For more information visit www.heraldcycletour.co.za
Cape Rouleur 2017 - The year of the Four Passes The HotChillee Cape Rouleur 2017 kicks off next month from 5 - 9 March with 160 pro, former pro, celebrity, and amateur riders from 16 countries across Africa, America, Australasia and Europe. The challenging 5-day event will include two coastal stages, over 550km and nearly 5,500m of climbing including the Steenbras Dam climb for the first time. It will also feature the “Four Passes” with riders tackling nearly 2,000m over Helshoogte, Sir Lowry’s, Viljoens and the Franschhoek Pass on Stage 3. The edition will be made up of 20% women, the largest percentage of female cyclists on any HotChillee event to date, including 15 yr old UK rider Eleynor Bäckstedt who will be the youngest ever Cape Rouleur participant. Elynor won the LONDON-PARIS 2016 women’s jersey at 14 yrs and has her eye on this year’s Cape Rouleur’s women’s jersey. She will be riding for Team Bäckstedt HotChillee alongside young South African cycling talent. Team Bäckstedt HotChillee is managed by Paris-Roubaix winner and cycling legend Magnus Bäckstedt who will be riding alongside rugby legend and Cape Rouleur veteran Joel Stransky who has never missed the race which is in its 6th edition. Photo Credit: Tobias Ginsberg
For more information visit www.caperouleur.com
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February 2017
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New Road Cycling Team To Make Debut At SA Champs!
Photo L-R (Back): Morne van Niekerk, Greg De Vink, Aidan van Niekerk, Wian-David Slabbert, Ivan Venter, Jarrod Hattingh, Byron Munton & Devin Shortt (Bottom Left) Photo Credit: Rob Ward
It came as a huge surprise when Team LEADout Aspire announced their incorporation at the end of last year, as top level road cycling teams within South Africa are limited to only a few competitive teams such as Road Cover, Telkom, Giant, and Alfa Bodyworks.
ment. The riders have different schedules for Europe. Some have been selected to ride for teams in Spain, France, and Portugal. Notwithstanding, LEADout will have a base in Belgium where their remaining riders will be trained to compete in races in conjunction with Verandas Willems-Crabbe.
It all started during the early weeks of December 2016 when nine under 23 riders realized that they have been excluded from all formal team obligations for the 2017 South African road racing season. They therefore decided to joined forces, and came up with the idea of managing their own team.
Currently Team LEADout Aspire is associated with the major partners with which LEADout is also associated with: Spier Wine Farm, and Ascendis Health. Team LEADout Aspire has also received sponsorships from Evobikes, SwiftCarbon, Whasp Nutrition, and The Cyclist Co.
“We thought it would be a waste of our talent if we didn’t take our ability a step further and establish a formal team structure securing race opportunities locally in an organized fashion. This will also serve as a good preparation for Europe, as most riders would be staying, and racing together at a base in Belgium later in the year,” says Aidan Van Niekerk.
Team LEADout Aspire riders are: Greg De Vink, Jarrod Hattingh, Byron Munton, Damean Oosthuizen, Devin Shortt, Wian-David Slabbert, Aidan van Niekerk, Morne van Niekerk, and Ivan Venter. The nine riders are all well known in the cycling fraternity in and around Cape Town, and between them share impressive national as well as international results. Eight of the riders in this squad have represented South Africa Internationally.
The LEADout Aspire Team will be functioning as an extension of LEADout Sport, managed by Barry and Ciska Austin. Barry will provide coaching for 8 of the team riders, while LEADout takes on a management role for all 9 riders for their European development programs. LEADout Aspire Team’s ultimate goal is to assist in the local preparation for their riders racing abroad in Europe, to make racing as inexpensive and accessible as possible. This will in turn provide the team riders with the opportunity to spend their money on their European ambitions, thereby aiding their international develop-
Leading up to the South African Champs the team engaged in a training camp from 16 - 25 January held in the Cape Winelands. Team LEADout Aspire’s first official race took place at the Western Cape Champs held in Oudtshoorn on 28 January. Morné van Niekerk was the first u/23 rider who crossed the line with team mate, Ivan Venter in second place. We wish Team LEADout Aspire the best of luck with their upcoming races - surely a notable and gifted team!