To All Herald Cycle Tour riders and spectators, 

The last few months have been challenging to say the least – throwing us all into unfamiliar spaces and having to operate under arduous circumstances. Despite the complexities, it’s helped us gain perspective in learning to adapt to these challenges. As event organisers it has helped us adapt and navigate our way around a new environment particularly within the outdoor sports and eventing landscape. 

As with many other organised outdoor events, 2021’s Herald Cycle Tour planning has taken a much more intensive approach as we micro-manage every aspect of the event. We are keeping close contact with relevant authorities and stakeholders to ensure that plans are conducive to current and future circumstances from a health and safety protocol perspective. 

After months of consultation with relevant stakeholders and after mapping out and analysing every scenario possible, the final outcome and decision of hosting the Cycle Tour event is influenced by what has and will always remain our first and most important priority . . . the safety and security of our riders, spectators and stakeholders on race day.  

While government has eased restrictions with the transition to level 1, we as organisers still have a sole responsibility of ensuring that every facet of the race is regulated under Covid-19 protocols. With that in mind, the planning of the road race event has proven to be a challenge as all operational measures under a Covid-19 environment require extended racing time. This consequently means extended safety and security measures - road closures, traffic, crowd control, fire and disaster management. While limitations have made it difficult to organise and implement, the economic downturn has equally, if not more-so, contributed to the deferment of many sporting events, including our very own Herald Cycle Tour. The restraint in budgetary support has resulted in the intermission of the event’s spend and this contributes predominantly towards the safety and security aspects of the road race event – one that we will not compromise. 

Taking into account all these factors, we as organisers, along with our longstanding partners have made the decision to split the MTB and road race event and host the two cycling disciplines separately next year. The MTB will take place in February 2021 and the Road race yet to be confirmed. 

The MTB race in Addo is one that we prepared and equipped to host in February, as the Addo Polo Club venue and environment affords us the flexibility to manage controlled group rides without the complexities of extended road closures and safety measures. The dynamic of the environment also lends itself well in that we’re ready and able to swiftly adapt to change in regulations and implement in accordance to government compliance, ensuring that rider safety is first and foremost our priority. 

The Herald Cycle Tour celebrates 36 years of cycling legacy and heritage, of community comradery and of bringing individuals of all walks of life together and there is one thing that we can proudly say that this pandemic can’t take away, and that is the love of cycling. 

Continue the ride! LIVE THE RIDE!

We hope to see you all next year.

Yours in Cycling,

The Herald Cycle Tour Team

Team Alfa Bodyworks/Giant will be aiming for the top step of the podium when they take to the start line of this year’s Herald Cycle Tour road race on Sunday morning. This was said by Alfa rider Hannes van der Walt, who expressed his excitement at being able to once again take part in one of the most popular races on the cycling calendar.

Featuring the 106km Coastal Classic as well as the 55km Pursuit, riders of all ages and skill levels will have their skills tested on the breathtaking course. Born in Port Elizabeth, but now based in Cape Town, Van der Walt said he and the rest of the team were ready to put their intense training and preparations to the test. “We did not win last year, so it was not ideal for us as a team, but we have an Olympic sprinter, Bernard Esterhuizen, in our team, so if we can get him to the line I think we would have a good chance of coming out on top,” Van der Walt said. With national U23 time trial champion Byron Munton also in their ranks, Van der Walt said the team had all the necessary tools to execute a racewinning performance. “We are all ready for the c h a l l e n g e. “With the likes of Munton, Esterhuizen and others, in the team, I know we can put on a good race and perhaps even finish on the top step at the end of the 106km course. ““It also depends on who our opponents will be. “We don’t know who is taking part from the other teams, so we just need to do our best,” he said.

Van der Walt said the direction of the wind could be a factor as it could force teams to change their tactics. “If it’s a headwind at Maitlands, I think it could see a sprint finish with a big group, but if it is a tailwind, then the group could split and only a few guys might find themselves in the sprint for the finish line. “We actually prefer windier conditions because it really exposes the stronger riders. “There is no hiding in the bunch, so we are really looking forward to the race,” Asked what made this one of the best races on the calendar, he said: “As a team we have been to this event for a number of years, it is one of the oldest races in the country. “The scenery is amazing and there are some great views of the coast. “The course is incredible with a mixture of tough and slightly easier sections, so it will test all of the cyclists’ capabilities. “I think a lot of riders would agree, because everything about this event is so well co - o r d i n at e d . “I think many riders will say the same thing because the organisers really think of every way to make sure the competitors are well taken care of.”

Collection of race packs will take place from today from 9am to 7pm at the Lifesaving Club, Pollok Beach, as well as tomorrow from 9am to 1pm.

Team DSV rider Gert Heyns was undeterred by sweltering, humid conditions in Addo as he sprinted his way to the 2020 Herald Cycle Tour Mountain Bike Challenge title yesterday morning. Heyns was involved in a sprint to the finish at the end of a challenging 80km course as he claimed the title in a time of three hours, one minute and 21 seconds. Finishing second was Imbuko Giant’s Nicol Carstens in 3.01:22, while his teammate Marco Joubert took third in 3.06;45.

In the women’s race, Yolande de Villiers made it a hat-trick of wins at the event as she claimed top honours in 3.22:02. In second place was Yolandi du Toit (3.34:36), who finished ahead of Anriette Schoeman in third with a time of 3.56:12. With three distances on offer for riders —the 80km Extreme, 60km Adventure and 30km Leisure —almost 1,300 riders of all ages and skill levels took to the course. “Extremely happy to pick up the win this year, having missed last year ’s race. My aim was always to give my all and see what it brings me, so to grab the win after that sprint finish is really great, ” Heyns said. “It was quite tough. It came down to a sprint finish in the end with Nicol. I tried but did not manage to lose him on the climbs. “Nicol rode very well, he is a very strong rider and although I tried to lose him on certain sections, he just showed why he is such a threat by keeping up the pace.” Heyns said despite his partner and defending champion Arno du Toit not being there, his main objective had been to try to ensure the men’s elite title stayed with Team DSV for another year. “It ’s good for the team that we are able to win this race again this year. “Last year Arno won and I was not here while this year roles are reversed. So I felt I needed to do it for my team,” Heyns said.

De Villiers was in imperious form in the women’s race as she finished more than 10 minutes ahead of Du Toit. “As expected, it was a very fast start, quite dusty. There was a bit more climbing than I expected, but it was fantastic. “There were quite a few fast girls in the field, coupled with starting alongside the men. So it was quite fast and furious, but I am just happy to pick up the win,” De Villiers said. Riding with the Team Madmacs logo emblazoned on her chest, the three-time Tour champion said a slight change in course dynamics had added some spice to the race. “There was a section of downhill single track which was added this year and it was absolutely fantastic.”

Leading results: 80km Extreme Men: 1 Gert Heyns (3.01:21); 2. Nicol Carstens (3.01:22); 3. Marco Joubert (3.06:45) Women: Yolande de Villiers (3.22:02); 2. Yolandi du Toit (3.34:36); 3. Anriette Schoeman (3.56:12) 60km Adventure Men: 1 Partridge Chimwendo (2.14:10); 2. Caylem Essen (2.16:31); 3. Luthando Fatyi (2.17:05) Women: 1 Siska van der Bijl (2.26:44); 2. Charlize Potgieter (2.34:30); 3. Michelle Enslin (2.37:46). 30km Leisure Men: 1 Joshua Wagner Jnr (1.01:32); 2. Francois de Villiers (1.01:37); 3. Jarred Loenen (1.01:41). Women: 1 Rachel Seaman (1.06:31); 2. Samantha van Schoor (1.07:50); 3. Megan Gil (1.08:41).

Rigorous training, high energy meals and mental focus – this is some of the preparation professional cyclists competing in the Herald Cycle Tour in less than a months’ time is currently doing.

With online entries closing on Tuesday (January 28) at midnight, excitement is building for one of the most anticipated races in the country. The Herald Cycle Tour will this year take place over two weekends - with the Mountain Bike Challenge and Junior Races on 16 February at the Addo Polo Club, and the Road Race on 23 February in Port Elizabeth.

One of the professional cyclists looking forward to the Road Race is Hazel Magill from Team Gumtree. “The Herald Cycle Tour is known for its continuous short punchy power climbs, and therefore you've got to do specific intervals for this, which includes a variety of 30-second to 5-minute intervals,” said Magill about her training for the race.

“I'm looking forward to supporting such a well-run and managed event. Every year when we go home from this event, we always talk about how we would love for more events around the country to run so smoothly. Thanks to all the sponsors and crew involved in making this so successful,” said Magill.

Team ProTouch’s cyclists are also eager to compete in the Road Race, with one teammate, James Fourie, racing in The Herald Cycle Tour for the first time. “I look forward to a fast and exciting race. We will be aiming to walk away with a win,” said a confident Fourie. The ProTouch team, who also race competitively internationally, have been following a professional programme preparing for The Herald Cycle Tour.

ProTouch’s Rohan du Plooy said he particularly enjoys the Eastern Cape race because of its full road closures and the hospitality from the race organisers. “I look forward to the buffet breakfast after the race. It’s a new year, with new opportunities and it will be the first time racing the event with ProTouch,” said Du Plooy.

In the Mountain Bike Race, the professional cyclists competing for Team Garmin, Yolandi du Toit and Ben Melt Swanepoel, are looking forward to their Eastern Cape adventure.

“Not really knowing what to expect from the racing conditions, my aim is to simply ride my own race and do the best I can on the day. As long as I can race to my full potential, I will be satisfied and if a good result follows, that's even better,” said Du Toit.

Team Garmin teammate Swanepoel said he will rely on his experience to construct a training programme, in combination with Du Toit’s valuable inputs. “I know the area from other races we have done there before and I really enjoy the terrain and the single-track. Eastern Cape riding has a very unique allure. Obviously, we always hope to do well in terms of results, but I would rather give my all on the day and have an average result than win without racing to my full potential,” said Swanepoel.

Another Mountain Bike competitor from Imbuko Giant Pro Cycling, Nicol Carstens, who finished in third position during last year’s race was also looking forward to an action-packed race.

“The vibe around the Herald Cycle Tour is always a highlight! My training programme in the lead-up to the Herald Cycle Tour will include lots of intervals and very little rest,” said Carstens.

Marco Joubert, Imbuko Giant Pro Cycling teammate, who finished in second position last year, said his highlight from last year’s race was the single-track descent down the side of Zuurberg Pass. “I have finished second twice. It would be awesome if I can cross the line in first place this year,” said Joubert.

There is no doubt that this year’s races – in the professional categories - will be highly competitive with some of the top talent in the country competing in the classic cycle event.

Celebrating its 35th race year, organisers of the Herald Cycle Tour attribute its long-standing popularity to the fact that the race brings together cyclists from all walks of life and fitness levels, for a day of fun on their bikes.

Online entries close this coming Tuesday, January 28 at midnight. For more information or to register, visit www.heraldcycletour.co.za

It will be a family affair at the Herald Cycle Tour next month, with two races reserved exclusively for children.

During the Mountain Bike Challenge in Addo, the children will get their chance to have some fun at the Junior Races taking place on Sunday, February 16 at the Addo Polo Club. These races will include a 5km Kiddies Ride and 500m Toddlers Dash.

As official hydration sponsor, Coca Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA) Head: Reputation and Regulatory Affairs Motshidisi Mokwena said it was important for the company to get involved with events where youth are encouraged to be active and live a healthy lifestyle.

“We are glad to be part of this successful event and we have seen growth in the cycling sport over the years. We are hoping that more and more people, even those that never imagined themselves cycling, can start cycling and participate in this event,” said Mokwena.

All Junior Races entry proceeds will be donated to the Reach for a Dream Foundation, who has been a beneficiary of the Herald Cycle Tour for the past 12 years.

Reach for a Dream Port Elizabeth Brand Coordinator Michelle van Huyssteen said proceeds are used to give hope to children fighting life-threatening illnesses through the fulfilment of their dreams. The Foundation’s aim is to inspire every child to believe in the power of dreams.

“The past 12 years have been a road pathed with so many special memories and amazing dreams fulfilled through the support from the Herald Cycle Tour and its generous cyclists. I fondly remember our first race in 2009 when a little boy was entered into the Toddlers Dash. Over the years, this family continues to support the Herald Cycle Tour and I have seen this little boy grow a little taller, and a little broader and move from pram to scooter to bicycles with each Cycle Race. This is very special,” said Van Huyssteen.

Cyclists (adults and children) entering online for the Herald Cycle Tour in any of the races (Mountain Bike and Road Race) can also choose to support the Reach for a Dream Foundation by clicking on the Donate button on the Herald Cycle Tour website.

The entry fee for the 5km Kiddies Ride is R60 and R30 for the 500m Toddlers Dash. The Start and Finish lines are at the Addo Polo Club. The Kiddies Ride starts at 06:40 and the Toddlers Dash at 06:50 on Sunday, February 16.

Mountain Bike Race Packs can be collected on Friday, February 14 from 09:00 to 19:00 at the Lifesaving Club, Pollok Beach; Saturday, February 15 from 09:00 to 13:00 at the Lifesaving Club, Pollok Beach; Saturday, February 15 from 17:00 to 18:00 at the Addo Polo Club and Sunday, February 16 from 04:30 to 05:30 at the Addo Polo Club.

Online entries close on Tuesday January 28 at midnight. For more information or to register, visit www.heraldcycletour.co.za

Bike racks in the lobby, early breakfast times… this can only mean one thing. For the fourth year in a row, Radisson Blu Hotel Port Elizabeth will be the preferred Road Race accommodation partner of the upcoming Herald Cycle Tour (HCT) 2020.

The popular beachfront hotel, which is perfectly situated right across the start and finish line of the HCT Road Race taking place on 23 February in Port Elizabeth, offers an ideal stay for all cyclists and travelling supporters.

 “Radisson Blu Hotel Port Elizabeth is situated in a prime location, it’s in the heart of the HCT action and cyclists and supporters have the convenience of walking to the start/finish line,” said Radisson Blu Hotel Port Elizabeth Marketing Manager Lesley Geyer.

Geyer said the HCT is a great drawcard for Nelson Mandela Bay, as it attracts professional cycling teams and race officials to experience the magic of Algoa Bay’s coastline through its cycle routes.   

“The energy and excitement of the weekend festival of cycling creates a hive of activity with many professional cycling teams and race officials staying at the hotel, enjoying exceptional staff hospitality and excellent facilities,” said Geyer.  

Apart from a safe and well-organised Road Race event, fans and supporters can also look forward to a celebration of entertainment at the HCT Race Village at Pollok Beach on 23 February.  

“The Road Race event goes beyond race day - these are the holiday-makers who consider the city for return leisure visits or weekend getaways throughout the year; making it great for properties such as ours, who enjoy hosting tourists in the city,” said Geyer. 

Radisson Blu Hotel Port Elizabeth is offering preferential accommodation rates between 21 - 24 February 2020 to all participants, who will be able to experience the energy and excitement of the weekend festival of cycling. These include:  

• Single occupancy at R1 400 per room, per night, with continental breakfast included.

• Double occupancy at R1 600 per room, per night, with continental breakfast included. 

For any accommodation enquiries, please contact Nokwazi Mlambo on nokwazi.mlambo@radissonblu.com or on 041 509 5000. Bookings can be made directly from the HCT website here: https://heraldcycletour.co.za/road-races 

All race entries will close on 28 January 2020. For further information or to register, visit www.heraldcycletour.co.za