Things are gradually getting back to a “new normal” in the local sports front after activities were halted by the Covid-19-enforced restrictions in the last six months , like in many other sectors.
After Cape Town Tennis hosted its first matches in the previous weekend, on Sunday scores of cyclists followed suit as they took to the road to do what they love the most. And there were not many better places to resume the road race than the scenic Slanghoek Valley in the Winelands, which has always been popular among participants over the years.
The event, organised by Western Province Cycling Association, was supposed to take place on 13 September but was cancelled after heavy winds posed a danger to cyclists. But on Sunday the weather conditions were slightly better – to the joy of many participants.
“We saw our first race back after a long lay-off eventually take place today, after last weekend’s washout. The day dawned clear but with clouds on the horizon. Racing started in perfect conditions with no rain and little wind,” said Sue Kirk, the race organiser.
First up was the new Teams Race, which saw some exciting racing. This was followed by the 120km individual race, as well as an 80km race split into two batches. “As the day progressed the weather got steadily worse, but fortunately we were able to complete proceedings before the rain came down too heavily,” Sue explained.
As it is often the case in competitions, there were winners and losers. Team Hartlief, led by David Garret, emerged victorious in the inaugural Team Race. Christiaan Janse van Resnsburg, Robert Jankielsohn, Theuns van der Bank, Christ Cronje and Ignus Oosthuizen also formed part of his team. Teams Mad Max, Kinetic Pro and Uwe Koetter finished after Hartlief.
In other results, the 120km Individual Race was won by Hendrik Kruger and Maroesjka Matthee took home the 80km Ladies Race.
Sue said the format that was employed in Slanghoek Valley was a temporary departure from the usual racing format. The organisers are obliged to adhere to regulations wherein they are restricted to a maximum number of 50 people on a start line, including race personnel. “Once these restrictions are lifted we will continue our normal modus operandi,” she concluded.
For full results click https://www.wpcycling.com/race-results/slanghoek-results/
