Despite the harsh economic climate, one of the biggest fields could be on the cards for the 24th edition of The Herald Volkswagen Cycle Tour this weekend.
Race director Shane Bradfield said yesterday that, although he did not have official figures yet, his phone was ringing off the hook. “Judged by the interest, I won’t be surprised if this turns out to be one of the most successful races ever.”
He said it was a feather in the cap for the event to be able to grow in these economic times and he praised the sponsors for their insight and association with the Eastern Cape’s premier race.
Bradfield said prospective participants still had until pre-race registration this weekend to enter the race.
Registration for the road events is from 9am to 7pm on Friday and from 8am to 5pm on Saturday in the Tsitsikamma Conference Centre at The Boardwalk. Mountain bike registration is from 1pm to 7pm on Friday and from 5am on Saturday at the Addo Polo Club.
Late entries for the two feature races – the 105km road race and the 85km Extreme Challenge mountain bike event – will carry a R100 penalty.
“There will be no penalties for late entries for the rest of the races, but these entries will be treated as fun rides and will therefore not be timed,” said Bradfield.
All entrants will receive a Goodie Bag courtesy of Pick n Pay and qualify for the VW Citi Golf lucky draw. All finishers will receive a Powerade refreshment and a specially designed medal.
Linda Harwood, from Linda Harwood Promotions, said the race’s first ever expo will be held in conjunction with registration at the conference centre.
Entry fees are R170 for the 105km, R120 for the 75km Schools and Open Challenge, R50 for the MTR Smit 30km Family Fun Ride and R30 for the Reach for a Dream Kiddies’ Challenge.
Entry fees for the mountain bike events are R170 for the 85km Extreme Challenge, R100 for the 65km Vodacom Challenge, R60 for the 42km Family Fun Ride and R30 for the Choc Kiddies’ Challenge.
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)