Powerade set to ‘energise’ The Herald Cycle Tour

Powerade – and Bonaqua still water – will again be on the drinks menu at The Herald Cycle Tour, hosted by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. Photo: Supplied

Participants in the 36th edition of The Herald Cycle Tour will be assured of all the liquid sustenance they need when they tackle the iconic Eastern Cape mountain bike and road races later this month.

Powerade has reaffirmed its long-time association with the cycle tour, hosted by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality – a partnership that has been in place for more than a quarter of a century.

The festival of cycling starts with the mountain bike races at the Addo Polo Club on February 13, followed by the road programme at Pollok Beach in Gqeberha on February 19 and 20.

And, with roasty conditions likely to prevail, Powerade will be by the riders’ sides to ensure they stay hydrated.

Sanri Engelbrecht, Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa district manager for Nelson Mandela Bay, said the company was thrilled to be able to support the highly popular EC event again.

“It is very important to be involved in local events of this magnitude and heritage,” she said, “both for the development of the area and for people to experience sports activities alongside our relevant brands.

“We are excited to be part of this event, to refresh you with an ice-cold product on-route. Give your best but, most importantly, enjoy the day and be safe.”

She added that Powerade was the ideal sports drink before, during and after workouts.

“We encourage you to Move #AlwaysForward with Powerade. We want to be part of your fitness journey so that we can celebrate your personal best, no matter how big or small.

“The Herald Cycle Tour is the perfect platform for you to experience what we have to offer.”

Engelbrecht confirmed that the sports drink would be available at all waterpoints and race finish areas, while Bonaqua still water would be an additional thirst-quenching option at race villages.

Both products would ensure hydration while Powerade had the functional benefit of providing energy as it contained Vitamin B, she explained.

The Herald Cycle Tour, hosted by NMBM, traditionally offers something for everyone and this year is no different.

On Sunday, February 13, the 80km Extreme provides the ultimate test on the off-road programme. Other options are the 60km Adventure, 30km Leisure, 30km Tandem, 5km Kiddies’ Ride and 500m Toddlers’ Dash.

The following Sunday, the 106km Classic provides an equally challenging outing on the road. The 55km Adventure for age groups and tandems is the support race.

On the day before, the 2km Kiddies’ Ride and 500m Toddlers’ Dash are the prelude to the great finale.

The Ultimate Quest title will be bestowed on the men’s and women’s rider placing highest across the mountain bike and road feature races.

Entries close at midnight on February 6.

Visit www.heraldcycletour.co.za to enter – and remember to support the Helmet Heroes initiative on the same portal.