The Herald Cycle Tour team celebrate the donation of 50 helmets to commuters in the Walmer township area after the first Helmet Heroes campaign. Photo: Supplied

The safety of people who commute by bicycle on the city's roads will again be a priority as the organisers of the Eastern Cape's most iconic cycling event roll out the second Helmet Heroes campaign.

The Herald Cycle Tour, hosted by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, launched the initiative alongside the 2022 race and marketing manager Berna Ulay-Walters said they were banking on increased support from participants and the public.

In the first year 50 helmets were donated to commuters who live on the race route in the vicinity of the Walmer township and now organisers have their sights set on doubling that number.

"A fundamental component of the event is to ensure we continuously educate the community about rider safety," said Ulay-Walters, "and this is where the idea of the Helmet Heroes campaign stems from.

"Often we come across commuters without helmets and, as advocates of rider safety, we want to ensure that we provide those in need with the essential safety gear."

She said participants could contribute by making a cash donation when entering online.

"All proceeds will be used for the purchase of new helmets. Alternatively, supporters of the project can place pre-loved helmets in the donation boxes at the registration venue."

Ulay-Walters also encouraged riders to contribute to The Herald's Christmas Cheer Fund.

She explained that Nelson Mandela Bay's premier charity drive ran throughout the year but that it encouraged a spirit of goodwill over the festive period.

"We ask the public to donate any amount of money in aid of the less fortunate in our community."

Funds collected go to children in places of safety and care as well as to the aged, poor, sick and disabled.

"This way we can help them experience some cheer during the Christmas season," said Ulay-Walters.

Besides Helmet Heroes and Christmas Cheer, the 37th running of the tour will be used to raise money for the Reach for a Dream Foundation, Uthando Youth Cycling Academy and Smile Foundation.

Michelle van Huyssteen of Reach for a Dream said 2023 would mark the 15th year of a "beautiful relationship".

"Our journey with the cycle tour started in 2009 when we were invited to participate as a beneficiary of the kiddies' races. The years since then have been paved with special memories and so many beautiful dreams being fulfilled."

She added that benefits received from the last tour had enabled them to fulfil "six wonderful bicycle dreams".

"Our aim is to inspire every child to believe in the power of dreams and to take them on a journey of hope," said Van Huyssteen.

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

Luthando Fatyi, who founded Uthando in New Brighton and Algoa Park, said its members had won all the way after being included in the cycle tour for the first time in 2022.

"It really means a lot to our cyclists to be part of the event. Getting a chance to race against the top riders was very special."

In addition, funds donated to the academy enabled it to travel beyond Nelson Mandela Bay to races such as the national omnium track championships in Gauteng.

The Herald Cycle Tour's mountain bike races will take place from the Addo Polo Club on February 12 with the road programme following in Gqeberha on February 18 and 19.

To enter or for more info, go to www.heraldcycletour.co.za.

The Eastern Cape Motors North End team will be among the participants in next year’s The Herald Cycle Tour, hosted by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. They are, from left, Mario Claassen, Troy Theodosiou and Brendon Jordaan. Photo: Supplied

The Eastern Cape Motor Group's vehicles are set to fly around the streets of Gqeberha and trails around Addo as it continues a proud legacy of giving The Herald Cycle Tour 'wheeels'.

North End Sales Manager Dale Cuthbert, the group's tour coordinator, said the partnership fell in line with the company's drive to support local events while allowing it to showcase its cars to the perfect target audience.

With its Ford range providing class-leading on and off-road options, he said the vehicles were well suited to the logistical requirements of 37th edition of The Herald Cycle Tour, which is hosted by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality for the second year running.

All in all, the ECMG has pledged 26 vehicles – including the Ranger, Everest and EcoSport – to be used by event organisers and officials for the mountain bike races and road events.

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

He said their vehicle line-up fits exceptionally well with the adventure and sporting lifestyles of participants.

The Group started its lengthy partnership with the event in 1986 – the very first edition of the race. After a short break, the association was renewed in 2017.

"We are looking to take this well into the future because we appreciate the significance of investing in the region," said Cuthbert.

"As a largely Eastern Cape-based company, we are very proud and privileged to have the region as our foundation and base.

"It's important for us to back our colleagues across the board, especially when The Herald Cycle Tour is a world-class event in every respect."

Exceptional organisation, participants from all walks of life and across a range of ages were elements that made it stand out, according to Cuthbert.

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

The mountain bike races – consisting of 80km, 60km, 30km, 5km and 500m options across the age spectrum – take place on February 12 from the Addo Polo Cub.

The road programme at Pollok Beach in Gqeberha follows on February 18 and 19 with the 2km and 500m kids' events on the Saturday and the 106km and 55km races on the Sunday.

Those who compete in the feature races across both disciplines will qualify for the Ultimate Quest competition.

At the heart of the iconic event is its association with various charitable initiatives such as the Smile Foundation, Reach for a Dream, The Herald Christmas Cheer Fund and Uthando Youth Cycling Academy.

Last year, the organisers also introduced the Helmet Heroes initiative aimed at safer cycling for commuters who live on the race route. The aim is to distribute 100 helmets after the 2023 event.

Entries close at midnight on February 5. Enter or find more info at www.heraldcycletour.co.za.

The 37th The Herald Cycle Tour, hosted by Nelson Mandela Municipality, will offer something for everyone as organisers aim to offer the ultimate family day/s out. Photo: Richard Pearce

With entries officially opening today, around 3 000 participants are set to head to the shores of Gqeberha for the 37th The Herald Cycle Tour, hosted by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM).

The 2023 action starts with the mountain bike races at the Addo Polo Club on February 12, after which the road events will take over Pollok Beach on February 18 and 19.

The Herald and Weekend Post editor Rochelle de Kock said the event would offer a "wholesome experience for everyone" and encouraged cyclists and their families to take part in the festivities.

She said there would be more entertainment and stalls as well as lots to do for kids to ensure that everyone could enjoy the experience while cheering on the riders.

As a flagship event on the Bay's calendar, De Kock said the aim was to expand it without compromising on professionalism or standard of health and safety protocols.

The municipality's director of sports, recreation, arts and culture, Charmaine Williams, said the city was proud to be associated with the event because of the economic and tourism spin-offs.

She said The Herald Cycle Tour offered an opportunity to position the metro as a preferred hosting destination for sport and recreation events.

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.

The road programme is anchored by the 106km Classic for various racing categories on the Sunday with the 55km Adventure for age groups and tandems completing the action-packed day. The 2km Kiddies' Ride and 500m Toddlers' Dash are scheduled for the Saturday.

Those with designs on racing the feature events in both disciplines can target the Ultimate Quest title.

The race villages will have family picnic zones (lunch baskets will be available), a family tent, beer garden, kids' play park, live entertainment on stage and VIP lounges.

The race has drawn support from a wide range of businesses including the Eastern Cape Motor Group, Standard Bank, Powerade, Radisson Blu Hotel, Zuurberg Mountain Village, Relay EMS, Talisman Hire, K&W, Trek and Cyclo Pro, Thule, Wayne Pheiffer Cycles, Coimbra Cycle Centre and Goshawk.

It supports 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 is aimed at increasing the safety of those who commute by bicycle.

The goal is to distribute 100 helmets to people on the race route. Riders can make a token donation when entering or drop off pre-loved helmets at registration.

Entries are open on www.heraldcycletour.co.za until midnight on February 5. For other information, contact The Herald marketing manager Berna Ulay-Walters at ulayb@theherald.co.za.

Team Aluwani pro Reynard Butler (right) sprints to victory ahead of teammate Nolan Hoffman (left) and Team Madmacs' Ben Fish in the 36th edition of the The Herald Cycle Tour road race at Pollok Beach in Gqeberha on Sunday. Photo: Richard Pearce

Team Aluwani pro Reynard Butler held his nerve in a three-man sprint to claim the 36th edition of the The Herald Cycle Tour road race at Pollok Beach in Gqeberha on Sunday morning.

The 32-year-old crossed the line in two hours, 41 minutes and 50 seconds to claim his first victory in the 106km Classic.

He was followed home by teammate and former winner Nolan Hoffman and Team Madmacs' Ben Fish as the top three completed the race in identical times.

In the women's race, Team Reach for Rainbows rider Maroeskja Matthee took top honours in 3:15.35, followed by teammate Hazel Magill (3:15.56) and Valley Electrical Titan Racing's Tiffany Keep (3:15.57).

"In past years we usually had a quick, frenetic start, but this year I think it was more of an easing into the race from the beginning," said Butler.

"We basically come here every year knowing what the conditions will be like. If it is windy, we know where to execute our plans, if not, we still know the route quite well.

"Going into the headwind for the sprinters was a bit tough because it slows the pace down and allowed us to ease into the race somewhat," explained Butler.

Meanwhile, the 33-year-old Matthee wore a broad smile as she came home to claim her second title at the event after her 2018 triumph.

"Despite the windy conditions, it was great to be out there again and to come home to take top spot is just the cherry on top.

"Coming into it, we knew it would be a hard race. There were some very strong women in the field.

"I wasn't too sure about my climbing legs so I went early and managed to get a considerable gap on the climb, which I just tried my best to sustain.

"I was cramping so much at the end because I am a sprinter and not a breakaway rider.

"I have to say a big thanks to my teammates who controlled things nicely at the back and it if was not for them I would not have taken this win," she said.

Using this race as a form guide for upcoming events, Matthee was happy with where she was in racing terms but still felt some work could be done to go even faster.

"Both times I have won The Herald Cycle Tour I have ended up on the podium at the Cape Town Cycle Tour," she said.

"As a team, we want to take the win at the Cape Town Cycle Tour, no matter who claims the win itself.

"As a team it would be great for us to be able to pick up a win there and, with the race three weeks away, I think our confidence is pretty high at the moment."

The Herald and Weekend Post editor Rochelle de Kock said she was proud to be part of the prestigious event, hosted by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality.

"This is the 36th instalment of this race and it is a big flagship event for us," she said.

"The event also encourages community spirit and that is what you see here today - people from different communities coming together to celebrate what is a big event in Gqeberha every year.

"To all our riders who came out, participated and enjoyed themselves, they are the real champions of this event, especially after the tough times we have experienced during the pandemic."

Anriette Schoeman will make her return to competitive road cycling in the Herald Cycle Tour road race in Gqeberha on Sunday. Image: Supplied

Road cyclists from across South Africa will descend on Gqeberha's stunning coastline for the 36th edition of the The Herald Cycle Tour on Sunday.

After missing the 2021 event due to the Covid-19 pandemic, some of the country's finest professional riders are set to battle it out in the traditional feature race – the 106km Classic – that gets underway at 6am.

The event, hosted by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, will take place over two days, featuring 2km and 500m junior races as well as a special activation on Saturday before the attention turns to the 106km and 55km Pursuit events on Sunday.

"We are delighted to be hosting The Herald Cycle Tour together with the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality after a break of one year due to Covid-19 restrictions," The Herald general manager Ryan Megaw said this week.

"The support from riders this year has been phenomenal, which shows that there is a pent-up need to get out and compete again after the recent restrictions.

"Our aim over the next few years is to continue the event's growth trajectory with the support of our committed sponsors and ensure that we continue to give back to the community that supports us by making this a world-class event."

The 2018 Classic winner, Clint Hendricks, will be aiming to add another title to his collection in one of his favourite races.

"As I said in 2018 when I won the race, this is such a special race and I believe that it should be talked about alongside some of the other big races we have on the cycling calendar in SA. It is certainly one of my favourite races to be a part of," he said.

With precious little racing on his plate over the last two years, Hendricks said it was mentally very tough to deal with.

"I went through a very bad patch when the pandemic hit and we were put into lockdown.

"I always knew that I would ride again, but I wasn't sure of the extent or if I would race professionally.

"It did cross my mind to retire from the sport completely, but it was not the way I wanted to exit the sport, I didn't want to be forced out by a pandemic, I wanted to leave on my own terms," the Team Enza Pro Cycling rider said.

Hendricks is pleased with his form coming into the event and the Paarl-based sprinter hopes to put all his skills on show.

Meanwhile, well-known Gqeberha cyclist Anriette Schoeman, who won the race in 2017 before three second-place finishes in 2018, 2019 and 2020, claimed second place at the Herald Cycle Tour Mountain Bike Race at the weekend and will test her limits as she goes for title number 18 in the 106km event.

"I am very excited to do the race but, to be honest, I have not really done any racing since last year March.

"It's also my first road race since my knee operation in September which had me on crutches for six weeks till the end of October," the Strada Solar-Africa Silks rider said.

Schoeman, who has begun her transition away from the realm of professional cycling to focus on her new career, said she did not have the preparation she would like going into the race, but was still looking forward to going out and having a good race.

"I am busy studying and working at the same time to become a piano technician and tuner.

"I honestly did not have any expectations going into the mountain bike race last week and it will be the same this week. I want to support the events because I just love The Herald Cycle Tour," she said.

"As the race got going last week, I tried to figure out what I did have and what I didn't, then just raced with that, spread the effort nice and evenly, and it all worked out in the end.

"This weekend will be a different race entirely. It will require a lot more high-end anaerobic effort, almost like 110 per cent effort a lot of the time."

Gqeberha's Marco Joubert (right) and defending champion Yolande de Villiers celebrate dominant victories in the 80km Extreme MTB Race at The Herald Cycle Tour in Addo yesterday. Photo: Richard Pearce

Professional mountain biker Marco Joubert says his preparations for the Cape Epic are well on track after he claimed the 2022 Herald Cycle Tour mountain bike title in Addo on Sunday morning.

Joubert, who placed third in 2020, finished in three hours, one minute and 39 seconds, almost 20 minutes ahead of Rogan Smart (3:20.48), with Matthew Leppan (3:24.29) claiming the final podium spot.

In the women's race, Yolande de Villiers rode a near-perfect race, coming home in 3:29.13 to successfully defend the title she had won in 2020.

She was followed by 2020 runner-up Anriette Schoeman (3:46.44) and Mandi Augustyn (3:50.05).

The King and Queen of the Mountain titles went to Joubert and De Villiers, pocketing an additional R1 000 to go with their R4 000 winners' prizes.

Joubert said while he'd a challenging start in the 80km Extreme race at The Herald Cycle Tour, hosted by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, things had got a bit lonely near the end.

"Pulling off the win in front of my home crowd is always special," he said.

"It is always nice being here in Addo because this is pretty much where I started my cycling career on the Hayterdale Trails.

"I am feeling really good, the form is looking good and I think it is a good sign for the next half [preparations for the Cape Epic]."

The Imbuko TypeDev rider said that despite the jostling for positions at the start of the race, once he managed to open up a gap to the rest of the field, it was all about managing his race effectively.

"In the start, especially around the corners, I tried to open up and saw that we had got away, so we rode hard for the next 10 minutes to try to extend the gap.

"I always felt it would be three of us gunning for the top spots.

"I managed to drop them just before the big climb and from there it was solo to the finish," he said.

"I think I took about 400mg of caffeine [during the race] today with the early start, but once I line up for a race it is always about getting into a zone, whether there is competition or not, pushing the body and seeing what you can achieve."

De Villiers, who wore a broad smile as she crossed the line, was happy with her performance in claiming her second The Herald Cycle Tour mountain bike title.

"I am very happy to be back racing on these beautiful trails and I thoroughly enjoyed the day out there," she said.

"It was quite dusty and the pace was quite high in the beginning, so I took to the single track just to keep my own pace.

"The last section was also quite hard, flat going into the finish, but I managed to keep it together and finish strong."

Leading results:

80km

Men: Marco Joubert (3:01.39); Rogan Smart (3: 20.48); Matthew Leppan (3:24.29).

Women: Yolande de Villiers (3:29.13); Anriette Schoeman (3:46.44); Mandi Augustyn (3:50.05).

60km

Men: Victor Olckers (2:14.32); Luthando Fatyi (2:19.36); Richard Wyngaard (2:19.45).

Women: Michelle Howes (2:28.30); Nina Chambers (2:38.16); Lauren Smith (2:45.34).

30km

Men: Rhys Burrell (1:02.01); Craig Townsend (1:02.04); Morne Botha (1:04.57).

Women: Rebecca Jopson (1:08.25), Nicolene Wilkinson (1:10.35); Lara Lotter (1:10.37).