The Cape Argus Pick ‘n Pay Cycle Tour generates a significant revenue for Cape Town and its surrounding towns and villages, whilst also raising funds for charity.   The Cycle Race this year is expected to generate R 400 million in accommodation, restaurant, petrol, car rental, shopping, and cycling accessory expenditure over the three day period of 12 – 15 March.

The recession has made itself felt with somewhat fewer entries from other provinces, say the Race organisers, reports the Cape Argus.   International entries are still open, and come in much closer to the time of the race.  

The 109 km race on 14 March will see 35 000 cyclists ride around the Cape Peninsula.  It is the largest individually timed cycle race in the world.  The Race is organised by the Rotary Club of Claremont and the Cycle Tour Trust.   Last year R 2,5 million of the proceeds went to charities, while a further R 2,5 million went to organisations supporting the development of cycling as a sport. 

The Race starts at 6h30 at Hertzog Boulevard, goes via Newlands, Wynberg, Lakeside, Simon’s Town, Noordhoek, via Chapman’s Peak to Hout Bay, Camps Bay, Sea Point, and finishes in Green Point outside the new Cape Town Stadium.   The cyclists drink 50 000 litres of Powerade, 160 000 litres of Coca Cola, 100 000 liters of water and 50 000 kg of ice during the race.

A week before the Cycle Tour, the Cape Argus Pick ‘n Pay Mountain Bike Challenge will be held on 6 and 7 March at Boschendal.

Post-script 6 February

Lance Armstrong has announced via Twitter that he will be riding in the Argus Cycle Tour.  The organisers have welcomed his participation: “He is cycling’s superstar and has done more for the global growth of the sport than any rider in history”. 

Chris von Ulmenstein, Whale Cottage Portfolio: www.whalecottage.com