As its official vehicle partner, Eastern Cape Motors is continuing its long association with The Herald Cycle Tour, presented by Nelson Mandela Municipality. Photo: Richard Pearce

Eastern Cape Motors will ensure that The Herald Cycle Tour stays on the proverbial straight and narrow when they continue a long association with the iconic cycling classic next month.

The event, hosted by the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, caters for all types – whether their bicycles are of the fat or skinny wheel variety.

It 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.

With an emphasis on supporting local events, Dale Cuthbert, North End general manager and Eastern Cape Motors coordinator for the tour, said they had come on board for the inaugural race in 1986, "helping the race to get on the road".

"We were involved for many years before another sponsor took over from 2005 to 2016," he said. "But we resumed our association with The Herald Cycle Tour in 2017 and hope to continue well into the future."

He added that the company was massively invested in the region and that The Herald was a perfect fit for the brand.

"The Eastern Cape Motor Group are largely Eastern Cape-based, so we have for the last 37 years regarded ourselves as being very proud and privileged to have the region as our foundation and base," said Cuthbert.

"Our slogan has for many years been 'the Eastern Cape is Eastern Cape Motor Country'.

"And when you consider The Herald Cycle Tour, it is a world-class event in every respect."

Exceptional organisation, participation across many age-groups and walks of life, the prestigious road race and a professional mountain bike event were all elements that made it stood out, said Cuthbert.

"This premier sporting event showcases our wonderful city and environs so well, so it's always a privilege for us to be involved.

"Many of our staff participate in both the road and mountain bike races, while our enthusiastic North End team are king of the mountain aides, keenly and effectively assisting cyclists at this waterpoint."

He said the company's range of vehicles was well suited to the requirements of The Herald Cycle Tour.

"As a monetary and vehicle sponsor, we supply 26 vehicles – Rangers, Everests, EcoSports and Figos – to assist with both events.

"We will supply the lead vehicle and many support vehicles, some well before the event to assist with preparation and logistics and many just prior to and on the day of the events.

"The Ford brand line-up of Ranger, Everest and EcoSport fits exceptionally well with the adventure, sporting lifestyle of those who participate, be it off or on-road.

"We wish all those riding in the cycle events a wonderful day. It is an opportunity to enjoy the most scenic areas of our magnificent city.

"On top of that there is always such incredible comradeship, no matter how competitive the riders are, and this always makes it an occasion to remember."

The 80km Extreme, on February 13, headlines the off-road programme. Other events include the 60km Adventure, 30km Leisure, 30km Tandem, 5km Kiddies' Ride and 500m Toddlers' Dash.

The 106km Classic is the mainstay of the road events on Sunday, February 20, with the 55km Adventure for age groups and tandems the alternative option.

On the previous day, the 2km Kiddies' Ride and 500m Toddlers' Dash will give youngsters an opportunity to be part of the festival of cycling.

The Ultimate Quest title is the carrot for those who opt to race the feature events in the mountain bike and road disciplines.

Online entries close at midnight on February 6. For more information or to enter, visit www.heraldcycletour.co.za – and remember to support the Helmet Heroes initiative while you're at it.

Radisson Blu Hotel in Gqeberha will again offer riders and officials four-star accommodation during the 36th The Herald Cycle Tour, hosted by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality.

Radisson Blu Hotel in Gqeberha will again be a home away from home for visiting riders in next year’s The Herald Cycle Tour, hosted by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality.

The four-star Summerstrand establishment will offer unparalleled accommodation opportunities for riders and officials during the 36th edition of the event, which will take place in February next year.

The two-week 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 the Friendly City on February 19 and 20.

The road events conveniently finish within walking distance of the Radisson Blu Hotel, a venue which has become an integral part of the sports tourism profile in Gqeberha.

Marketing manager Sigourney Bruintjies said the organisation has positioned itself as a supporter of initiatives that showcase the beauty of the Eastern Cape.

“These initiatives shed light on the capabilities of Nelson Mandela Bay businesses and the Herald Cycle Tour is very much part of that,” she explained.

“It is such a prestigious event, and we couldn’t be prouder to be part of an offering that is focused on developing the culture of cycling and has other positive effects on development projects in the Bay.”

She added that the hotel was looking forward to welcoming out-of-town cyclists and providing quality accommodation in a setting that catered for a broad clientele.

“The Herald Cycle Tour draws an international crowd who embody the confident individual who easily switches between the business and leisure mindset,” said Bruintjies.

“We offer a positive and personalised service in stylish spaces, ensuring an unforgettable experience for local and international guests participating in the tour.

“Our staff’s ‘Yes, I can’ spirit echoes through how we take care of guests, providing them with memorable moments through service and attention to detail.”

She added that the partnership covered complimentary rooms as well as preferential rates for pro teams, race officials and riders. Meeting venues, as well as prizes for lucky draw and social media giveaways, are also on the five-course menu.

Bruintjies said they welcomed all riders because they were an inspiration for others.

“To participants, we just want to say push through every obstacle you’re faced with as you pedal along the routes – you never know who’s watching and who you could be inspiring.”

The Herald Cycle Tour’s programme provides plenty of opportunities for old and young as well as the social and serious – embodying its slogan Live to Ride.

The 80km Extreme, on February 13, is the feature off-road event. Other options are the 60km Adventure, 30km Leisure, 30km Tandem, 5km Kiddies’ Ride and 500m Toddlers’ Dash.

The road programme on Sunday, February 20, is anchored by the 106km Classic for various racing categories. On the same day, the 55km Adventure for age groups and tandems plays the supporting role.

The 2km Kiddies’ Ride and 500m Toddlers’ Dash take place at the same venue the day before.

Those who opt to race the feature events in the mountain bike and road disciplines can target the Ultimate Quest title.

Online entries close at midnight on February 6. For more information or to enter, visit www.heraldcycletour.co.za.

The Herald Cycle Tour, hosted by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, will continue its drive to make a difference in the lives of others through next year's event.

The Uthando Cycle Youth Academy is one of the beneficiaries of next year's Herald Cycle Tour, hosted by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. Doing what they love are, from left, Wanga Mtwebana, Ahlumile Madikana, Lutho Mabanga, Anele Cakwebe and Lundi Kakana. Photo: Supplied

The 36th edition of the popular Eastern Cape race, which includes mountain bike and road options, will take place at the Addo Polo Club on February 13 and in Gqeberha on February 19 and 20.

While the cycle tour has a history of giving back to the community, it is constantly finding new ways to support charity organisations.

That is why the organisers have included a new beneficiary in the Uthando Cycle Youth Academy as well as a project aimed at improving the safety of commuters who use bicycles.

The Reach for a Dream Foundation, involved since 2009, and Smile Foundation are other organisations to benefit financially from the event.

Through the Helmet Heroes campaign the organisers are raising funds to purchase new helmets while also collecting pre-loved ones. Their aim is to donate 100 helmets to commuters in the Walmer township, situated on the route, as part of the race's vision to promote a safer cycling environment.

Meanwhile, members of the Uthando Cycle Youth Academy, a non-profit organisation founded by Luthando Fatyi in New Brighton and Algoa Park, are excited at the prospect of taking part in the events.

"This development means so much for us," said Fatyi, who set up the academy to try to offer children in the townships a healthy exercise option.

"For some it will be their first big event they have ever raced or attended, and we can't wait for the opportunity to be part of this festival of cycling.

"My message to the cyclists is never give up until you have crossed the finish line, while I would also encourage businesses in the Eastern Cape to support our cause."

He added that the academy provided cycling, running and recreational activities to youth to get them off the streets and to try to prevent substance abuse and crime.

"Also, we want to instil in them the ability to dream and to achieve their goals."

Fatyi said the children in the townships would love to start cycling but very few had the means.

"We subscribe to the saying 'it takes a village to raise a child' and naturally we would love more support for the academy.

"The cycle tour is an ideal opportunity to tell the public more about the academy and to expose the children to the benefits of healthy exercise."

Gqeberha branch manager Michelle van Huysteen said the Reach for a Dream Foundation's journey with the Herald Cycle Tour was paved with special memories and beautiful dreams fulfilled through its support.

"Reach for a Dream's core purpose is to fulfil the dreams of children of any race, colour and creed between the ages of three and 18 faced with a life-threatening illness," she said.

"The foundation has been doing so all around the country for 33 years and with our theme for 2022 – journey of hope – we cannot wait to join hands with all the role-players to make a difference in the lives of these brave children."

She said the link with the Herald tour had allowed them to fulfil 11 "beautiful dreams" following last year's event.

"The foundation's aim is to inspire every child to believe in the power of dreams and take them on a journey of hope that inspires, encourages and shows care, acceptance and kindness."

Van Huysteen added that they were proud to be part of the cycling classic.

"We do not merely view it, its partners and cyclists as donors of dreams; it feels like family.

"We are honoured that our brand is associated with one of the most recognisable sporting events in the Eastern Cape and love that there is a strong focus on the family."

The Smile Foundation has been part of the Herald Cycle Tour for two years, hosting its annual cyclethon as part of the activities in the race village in 2020.

This was used to create awareness and raise funds for the organisation, according to Eastern Cape hospital coordinator Tanya Jackson.

She added that cyclists had the opportunity to contribute by donating when they entered online or by participating in the Smile Foundation Cyclethon.

"All funds raised go towards plastic and reconstructive surgery for children, fitting in with the foundation's mission of transforming the lives of children with facial anomalies," said Jackson.

"It is a non-profit organisation that brings people together for the purpose of providing expert surgical intervention."

Visit www.heraldcycletour.co.za to enter before midnight on February 6.

The Herald Cycle Tour, hosted by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, has launched the Helmet Heroes initiative to promote safe cycling in the city. Photo: Supplied

The Herald Cycle Tour, hosted by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, is on a mission to improve the safety of commuters who live on the race route with the launch of its Helmet Heroes project.

The aim is to collect at least 100 helmets in the lead-up to the 36th edition of the Eastern Cape cycling classic, which takes place on February 20, for distribution to those who do not have this essential equipment.

The Herald marketing manager Berna Ulay-Walters said one of the event’s objectives was to promote and encourage safe cycling.

“This applies to those who are competing in the sport or who are just regular commuters,” she said.

“Often times we come across riders and commuters on their bicycles who are without helmets. In most cases this is due to a lack of access or the means to afford safety kit.

“A salient aspect of The Herald Cycle Tour is to ensure we educate the community about rider safety and, where possible, provide the means to essential kit. Not only does it foster safe cycling, but it also empowers those who really need it.

“Part of that is inaugurating a helmet drive through our entrants with a target donation of at least 100 helmets by the end of the race.”

The Herald Cycle Tour traditionally attracts around 3 000 entrants and she said there were two ways in which competitors could contribute.

“Riders are encouraged to make a cash donation when entering online. All proceeds collected will be used for the purchase of new helmets.

“Alternatively,” she said, “supporters of the project can drop off pre-loved helmets at the registration venue, where containers will be placed for this purpose.”

Ulay-Walters said the Helmet Heroes drive would support cyclists and commuters in need of helmets within the Walmer township area – a location that has formed part of The Herald Cycle Tour’s road race route for many years.

Taglined Live the Ride, the programme starts with the mountain bike races at Addo Polo Club on February 13, followed by the road programme at Pollok Beach on February 19 and 20.

The Herald Cycle Tour, hosted by NMBM, is positioned as a festival of cycling for the whole family.

The 80km Extreme tops the bill on the off-road programme. Other options include the 60km Adventure, 30km Leisure, 30km Tandem, 5km Kiddies’ Ride and 500m Toddlers’ Dash.

The 106km Classic for various racing categories anchors the road programme on the Sunday, with the 55km Adventure for age groups and tandems completing the options. The 2km Kiddies’ Ride and 500m Toddlers’ Dash take place on the Saturday.

Racing and performing well in the feature events in both disciplines can land participants the coveted Ultimate Quest title.

Entries close at midnight on February 6.

Go to www.heraldcycletour.co.za to enter.

Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality is continuing its drive to become a sporting destination of choice by partnering with the iconic The Herald Cycle Tour in Gqeberha.

In its bid to position itself as a sporting destination of choice, Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has signed on as title sponsors of the 36th The Herald Cycle Tour. Photo: Supplied

This 36th edition, taglined Live the Ride, starts with the mountain bike races at the Addo Polo Club on February 13 followed by the road programme at Pollok Beach on February 19 and 20.

Having showcased the region for more than three decades and believed to be the second oldest cycling event in the country, metro spokeswoman Rebecca Nyangaresi-Gatang’i said it made sense to come on board as title sponsors.

“We have taken a deliberate decision to strategically position ourselves as a sporting destination and this is reflected in our integrated development plan and events policy,” she said.

“On this basis, it made sense for us to enter into a partnership with The Herald to work towards achieving that objective.”

Nyangaresi-Gatang’i felt there would be multiple spin-offs for the city.

“An event of this nature will definitely assist with sports tourism in our region as it has a big following and profiles the city to a broader national audience.

“It also makes a much-needed contribution to local business and provides the metro with the perfect platform to demonstrate its hosting ability, venues in the city and services it provides.

She said the tour also helped to cultivate a culture of cycling in the city and had a major impact on development projects.

“It is the perfect chance for Nelson Mandela Bay residents to participate in a prestigious event on their doorstep.

“We would also like to encourage out-of-town athletes to bring their families and friends to enjoy our city and experience what the region has to offer.”

The Herald Cycle Tour, which traditionally attracts around 3 000 participants across the two disciplines, is positioned as a festival of cycling with options for the whole family.

The 80km Extreme is the feature event on the off-road programme. It is supported by the 60km Adventure, 30km Leisure, 30km Tandem, 5km Kiddies’ Ride and 500m Toddlers’ Dash.

Sunday’s road programme is anchored by the 106km Classic for various racing categories, with the 55km Adventure for age groups and tandems completing the action-packed day.

The 2km Kiddies’ Ride and 500m Toddlers’ Dash is scheduled for the Saturday.

Those with designs on racing the feature events in both disciplines can target the Ultimate Quest title, which aims to identify the top allrounders.

The Herald Cycle Tour, hosted by NMBM, has again drawn support from a wide range of businesses.

Corporates included in the sponsorship family are: Eastern Cape Motors-Ford North End (vehicle sponsors), Radisson Blu Hotel (accommodation), Powerade (hydration), Cadar (print), Relay EMS (medical) and K&W Events and Amusements (infrastructure).

The event also generates funds for the Smile Foundation, Reach for a Dream, The Herald Christmas Cheer Fund and Uthando Youth Cycling Academy.

Entrants can also support the Helmet Heroes initiative, which has been introduced this year.

Aimed at educating and providing protection for those who commute by bicycle, organisers set themselves the target of distributing 100 helmets to people on the race route.

Participants can make a token donation when entering or drop of pre-loved helmets at registration.

Entries for The Herald Cycle Tour, hosted by NMBM, open on Friday (October 1) and close at midnight on February 6.

To enter and for other news and information, go to www.heraldcycletour.co.za.

To all our Herald Cycle Tour Riders, 

We hope that you are all keeping well and safe. 

Following the President’s announcement on Tuesday, 15 June, we are once again impelled into a space where planning for a mass participation event under current level 3 restrictions pose a challenge – even more so that the duration thereof is indefinite. The everchanging shift in outdoor capacity permissions has caused such a major deterrent in allowing us to go ahead with The Herald Cycle Tour MTB Race, which we were hoping to host this year. 

With that being said, we have made the decision (and not an easy one) to cancel 2021’s Herald Cycle Tour MTB race and will spend the remainder of this year planning for 2022’s Cycle Tour event – for both the MTB and Road racing disciplines.

Yes, one cannot say that we will or will not find ourselves in the same confined situation, however the next few months will allow us more time to intensively plan every possible scenario for next year’s event.  

As a team, we will always strive to stage an event that will provide riders and their families a memorable cycling experience (we don’t believe in sub-standard!), and we’re grateful that the next few months will allow us the time to plan and create a cycling space that everyone can enjoy.  

Dates have been set for 2022. Please diarise the below confirmed dates. Entries will open later this year 2021. 

2022 dates:

• MTB Race: Sunday, 13 February 2022, Addo Polo Club

• Road Race: Sunday, 20 February 2022, Pollok Beach, Summerstrand

Rider entries that have been paid for in 2021 will be transferred over to 2022 at no additional cost. If you have any queries, please feel free to contact us on: heraldcycletour@arena.africa

Thank you all for understanding this very difficult situation we find ourselves in. We will definitely see you at the start line next year in February!

Kind Regards,

The Herald Cycle Tour Team.