Standard Bank has invested in the hospitality area at the 37th edition of The Herald Cycle Tour, hosted by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. It takes place at Addo and in Gqeberha next month. Photo: Richard Pearce

Standard Bank has promised to roll out the red carpet to clients and selected participants alike as the financial institution prepares to cycle in tandem with The Herald Cycle Tour for the first time next month.

Unathi Maqalekane, provincial head of Standard Bank's client coverage in the Eastern Cape, said it would invest in the hospitality area at the road events on February 18 and 19.

Apart from looking after its clients, It Can Be an unforgettable experience for the select few who have "won" access to the VIP tent via lucky draw.

Although the sponsorship was for the 37th edition of one of the country's most iconic cycling classics, he said there was a strong interest to stay involved beyond 2023.

"We hope to be a continued sponsor as we realise The Herald Cycle Tour is one of the signature events which our customers and stakeholders eagerly anticipate each year.

"We have cultivated sound relationships with external stakeholders over many years, which have opened the door to a range of opportunities such as this."

Maqalekane said The Herald Cycle Tour, hosted by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, had developed into a major event that created opportunities for them to connect with various parties.

"It has been part of the Eastern Cape for many years and, as such, Standard Bank's involvement affords us the opportunity to build the brand and create relevance in the markets where the Standard Bank Group operates."

He was of the opinion that the tour provided "the perfect platform" for it to engage with its customers.

Furthermore, he noted that the event had a built-in sustainable and socially relevant cause that would help shape the bank's reputation while growing the discipline in which it had invested.

Maqalekane said he hoped to celebrate alongside the participants at the finish line.

"I want to say to all the riders the best of luck as you tackle some challenging climbs along our beautiful coastline. Dig deep and remember the training which has led you to this point."

This year's cycling festival starts with the mountain bike races at the Addo Polo Club on February 12. The distances of 80km, 60km, 30km, 5km and 500m offers options to the experienced and inexperienced as well as the young and old.

The road programme kicks into gear at the race village on Pollok Beach in Gqeberha the following weekend. The 2km and 500m events for kids are scheduled for the Saturday with the much anticipated 106km and 55km races starting and finishing in the shadow of the Radisson Blu Hotel on the Sunday.

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

In addition, the Helmet Heroes concept was introduced last year to campaign for safer commuting by bicycle. The aim is to distribute 100 helmets to people on the race route after the event.

Participants can contribute on the entry portal or by depositing their unwanted headgear in the containers provided at the race villages during registration.

For more information, or to beat the February 5 entry deadline, go to www.heraldcycletour.co.za. Entrants stand a chance of winning a Trek bicycle worth R40 000.

The Radisson Blu Hotel aims to leverage its association with The Herald Cycle Tour to showcase Nelson Mandela Bay. Photo: Supplied

Showcasing the best of the Bay is at the heart of the Radisson Blu Hotel's plans as they prepare to link up with The Herald Cycle Tour for the sixth straight year in February 2023.

Radisson marketing manager Sigourney Bruintjies believed that iconic events such as the cycle tour reflected positively on Gqeberha and that the resultant sentiment had economic spin-offs for businesses.

The 37th running of the tour, hosted by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality for the second time, will be based at Addo for the mountain bike events and Pollok Beach in the shadow of the hotel for the road races.

Bruintjies said the company's association with The Herald Cycle Tour had been a significant partnership.

"We have nurtured it since its inception and hope to make the relationship even stronger in coming years," she said. "It's pretty exciting being part of the event – especially on race day!"

Having cyclists whizz past in the basement on race day, seeing them fill up the road in front of the hotel and watching them fight the wind brought a special buzz to the hotel and beachfront, she said.

"Being the only international hotel in the region, we are demonstrating that the Eastern Cape is capable of hosting events that draw people from around the country and abroad.

"When Gqeberha hosts these sports events, it showcases our beautiful city and what we are capable of."

Her message to participants was to maximise every day and to continue inspiring those around them.

"Cycling in the Windy City can be quite intense. The grit, resilience and determination of cyclists are truly inspiring."

With its panoramic view of the Indian Ocean, the Radisson Blu aims to create meaningful and memorable experiences in a stylish environment.

Guests are typically individuals known as "smart maximisers". They are successful, sophisticated and always on the move, seamlessly blending business and leisure.

"They see every trip as an opportunity to get the best of both worlds," explained Bruintjies, "getting the work done but also taking a moment to enjoy their time."

The hotel will offer complimentary rooms, preferential rates and conference venues for the media as part of the agreement. There are also prizes for the road and mountain bike events as well as an enticing giveaway on social media.

The mountain bike races (80km, 60km, 30km, 5km and 500m) take place on February 12 with the road programme following on February 18 (2km and 500m) and 19 (106km and 55km).

In addition, there is the Ultimate Quest for those who fancy taking part in the feature races of both disciplines.

Entries are open until February 5: www.heraldcycletour.co.za

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."