Ntuthuko Maphumulo
cycling
The Vodacom Ride for Victory cycling competition will showcase some of the top cyclists in the country. The May 6 cycling challenge is a 115km route through the picturesque Suikerbosrand nature reserve. The morning race will be for the top cyclists, followed by amateur cyclists and enthusiasts.
The professional cyclists will gain points that will go towards the super series and provincial colours.
The route is expected to be tough with sharp corners and uphill sections. The 2?000 riders expected to take part will also be supporting the physically disadvantaged children of two schools, Phillip Kushlick in Soweto and Frances Vorwerg in Haddon. The schools will use the funds for specialised education, equipment and training of teachers.
Henry Stephan, head of Vodacom’s Gauteng region, said: “The race is a way of giving back to the community.” Top South Africans cyclists are among the previous winners: Alan van Heerden in 1996, Gary Beneke in 1997 and 1998, Nicholas White in 1999 and James Periy last year.
Beneke is now involved in training at the Soweto Cycling Club, whose members will be entered in the race.
Cyclists who want to enter the race will pay a R75 entry fee for adults and R20 for youngsters.
The Suikerbosrand challenge will also have shorter routes of 65km and 20km for the young and families to take part in and there will be entertainment provided at the event.
ENDS