The Cape Town Cycle Tour took place in cool, cloudy and windy conditions on Sunday as 35 000 cyclists took part in the 109km race, the world’s largest timed cycling event.
Kiwi, Sam Gaze won the men’s event with Cherize Willeit winning the women’s race.
Let the wind work in your favour. It’s pretty much downhill from Suikerbossie to the finish line. #CTCycleTour2019 pic.twitter.com/URMux4aE6l
— Cape Town Cycle Tour (@CTCycleTour) March 10, 2019
Participants came in all shapes and sizes; on racing bikes, mountain bikes, tandems, you name it; some for the first time others who can’t get enough of the race.
Some were going for speed to beat their best times, others just to enjoy the race, the camaraderie and the scenery.
It’s not just about the cyclists, it’s about the people of Cape Town who have embraced the race and who come and give support in their droves.
“It was windy, but really enjoyable, I love this race. The people help you so much, it’s a great vibe. I will be back. I am tired, but I loved it, what a race, what views, what great support.”
The famous Kalk Bay garage band cheering on the #CTCycleTour2019 riders. ? pic.twitter.com/m5U2gMJHk6
— Cape Town Cycle Tour (@CTCycleTour) March 10, 2019
The Mother City opened its arms again with thousands of spectators lining the route to add their voices to the spectacular scenery,” one cyclist said.
The race has a huge charity component to it with millions of Rands raised for disadvantaged communities and for social development.
Another cyclist says that, despite the wind, it was an enjoyable experience.
“I was going to say it was a windy day, a tough day, but it was a stunning day. The Cape Town Cycle Tour enjoys some of the most scenic views in the world, but it’s also the atmosphere created by the 35 000 cyclists and the thousands of spectators along the road.”
Congrats again to our #CTCycleTour2019 winners:
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Elite Men – 109km:
1. Sam Gaze (02:39:42)
2. Jason Oosthuizen
3. Clint Hendriks
▪️
Elite Women – 78km:
1. Cherise Willeit (02:16:11)
2. Kimberley Le Court de Billot
3. Tiffany Keep pic.twitter.com/8v00PckB83— Cape Town Cycle Tour (@CTCycleTour) March 10, 2019