Due to the remarkable growth of its flagship sporting event, The Herald has appointed a full-time race director for its annual cycle tour.
Shane Bradfield, of Leisure Cycle Tours and Adventures, now spearheads the largest cycle event in the Eastern Cape, which will take place for the 24th time over the last weekend in January.
Bradfield – who was shown the ropes by previous race director Mark Bradley at this year’s The Herald Volkswagen Cycle Tour – said he was delighted about the appointment. “It’s a wonderful privilege to be involved with one of the oldest and richest cycling races in the country.”
He said behind the scenes it took a dedicated team to pull off such an event and that he was fortunate enough to be surrounded by experts.
“As race director, I am responsible for the overall running of the event and to oversee all logistical aspects. However, teamwork is paramount.”
He said regular meetings with all stakeholders and service providers ensured that everyone worked towards the staging of yet another successful tour.
Bev Gaia, The Herald’s marketing manager, said they were very pleased to have Bradfield on board. “He has the right background and loads of expertise when it comes to organising cycling events.”
Linda Harwood, the events management consultant for the race, said Bradfield’s enthusiasm was contagious. “I am convinced that with his passion for the race and a general movement towards a healthier lifestyle, the race will just keep growing.”
She added that the addition of a full-time race office was a huge benefit for the race. “Having a permanent office makes logistical sense as it offers constant support to service providers, stakeholders, officials and participants.”
The Herald VW Cycle Tour weekend starts with mountain bike races at the Addo Elephant National Park on Saturday, January 31. Events include the 85km Feature Race, the 65km Vodacom Challenge, the 42km Family Fun Ride and the CHOC Kiddies’ Challenge.
On the same day, the MTR Smit 30km Family Fun Ride and Reach for a Dream Kiddies Challenge will start from The Boardwalk in Port Elizabeth. The 105km The Herald VW Cycle Tour and the 75km Schools and Open Challenge take place the following day.
Entry forms are available from cycle shops, www.heraldcycletour.co.za or www.cyclelab.co.za.
For more information, phone Shane Bradfield on 074 114 4811.
Issued by:
Full Stop Communications
Coetzee Gouws
082 575 7991
041 368 4992
coetzee@fullstopcom.com
www.fullstopcom.com
On behalf of:
Avusa (The Herald)