Cyclists ready to saddle up for Cape Town Cycle Tour – IOL

Cyclists ready to saddle up for Cape Town Cycle Tour  IOL

Cape Town – Thousands of cyclists and spectators are gearing up for the 42nd annual Cape Town Cycle Tour, the world’s largest timed-cycling event.

The tour, which draws participants from across the world and circles the Cape Peninsula.

Race director David Bellairs said more than 30 000 entrants were expected with plans and protocols in place and events until the big day.

A total of 300 exhibitors are showcasing their gear at the event’s 30th annual expo until Saturday.

The 30th annual Expo is being held at the Cape Town Stadium for the third time, and is once again chock-a-block with exhibitors from within the cycling industry, and beyond. 300 exhibitors welcome more than 70 000 visitors over the three days. Picture: David Ritchie/African News Agency(ANA)
300 exhibitors welcome more than 70 000 visitors over the three days. Picture: David Ritchie/African News Agency(ANA)
Thousands of cyclists and spectators are gearing up for the 42nd annual Cape Town Cycle Tour, the world’s largest timed-cycling event. Picture: David Ritchie/African News Agency(ANA)
300 exhibitors welcome more than 70 000 visitors over the three days. Picture: David Ritchie/African News Agency(ANA)
The 30th annual Expo is being held at the Cape Town Stadium for the third time, and is once again chock-a-block with exhibitors from within the cycling industry, and beyond. Picture: David Ritchie/African News Agency(ANA)

With the first confirmed Covid-19 case in South Africa and the race on Sunday, fears of the virus spreading are mounting.

Bellairs said the tour was acutely aware of the virus threat and were working closely with the authorities.

“We are monitoring the situation as it unfolds and working closely with our chief medical officer.

“We are taking our lead from the provincial and national Departments of Health who in turn are working closely with and being guided by the World Health Organisation and the National Institute for Communicable Diseases.

“Together with our medical team we have developed protocols for Lifecycle Week, including race day.

“We look forward to welcoming all participants this Sunday,” he said

With about 2500 international participants, Bellairs said only two groups cancelled due to the virus.

“We had cancellations from two different parties coming over from Italy, and responsibly pulled out as a result of being in a red zone.

“The other party withdrew as a result of an insurance (company) not willing to cover them at this time,” Bellairs said.

Motorists are advised to take note of the temporary road closures that will be in place over the weekend and to plan their trips accordingly.

The complete list of road closures is available here:  http://bit.do/CT-Road-Closure

@Mtuzeli

mthuthuzeli,[email protected]

Cape Argus