The Lore of Cycling
It’s that time of year again – huge groups of cyclists are finalising their last minute training schedules in preparation for three of the year’s major cycling events taking place in March.
Found on highways and footpaths from dawn to dusk, these dedicated individuals are recognisable by their strange two-tone tans, colourful cycling gear and fierce determination to disprove the reality – which is that getting fit enough for these events can’t be achieved a month before the race.
These last minute road warriors make up a large proportion of the cycling community in South Africa. Not exceptionally fit, they nevertheless enjoy what they’re doing and take full advantage of this country’s (usually) glorious weather.
Starting on 27th February at the Underberg School in the Southern Drakensberg, this race is divided into two categories. The adventure component is more relaxed (if 260 km over three days can be described as “relaxed”), while the true Subaru Sani2C draws entries from the ranks of hardcore mountain bikers.
With each division making provision for 500 teams and 100 supporters (2,200 individuals), the Sani2C logistics are capably handled by local farmers, their families and members of the local communities living along the route.
The final day’s 71 km stage is the easiest of the entire event. Winding through sugar cane fields and coastal valleys, riders are energised by the salty aroma of the Indian Ocean where the event finishes at Scottburgh.
Now in its third decade, this is the big one of South African cycling. Traditionally held on the second Sunday in March, this event now attracts 35,000 locals and a large group of dedicated overseas cyclists.
Celebrities who can proudly display their Argus finishers’ medal include actor Matt Damon, Tour de France winners Eddy Merckx, Miguel Indurain and the incomparable Lance Armstrong.
Starting in 1977 with 500 participants, the Argus has now grown into a field of 40,000 – providing a huge cash injection for the Western Cape.
What sets the Argus apart from other road events in South Africa, however, is the scenery – including the coastal highlights such as Simon’s Town and the Atlantic seaboard. The start is at the foreshore, within view of Table Mountain. Names such as Scarborough, Kommetjie and Chapman’s Peak are engraved in the memories of generations of cyclists who have taken part in the event.
And after having free-wheeled through Houtbaai, there’s the infamous Suikerbossie. This is a 2.2 km hill which has to be overcome before the ultimate reward – the fast and flat finish sprint from Llandudno to the new 2010 Greenpoint Stadium. This is also where many of the 20,000 spectators, family members, friends and supporters will gather to welcome the cyclists home after an event which, for a select few, will have ended in less than three hours.
For the majority, however, the event could turn into a nightmarish struggle of 7 hours (the usual cut-off time). It’s not the toughest event on the South African calendar, but it will punish those who were too lazy to train.
Of course, other aspects can also play a role on the day. Think back to 2009 when gale force winds of up to 100 km/h physically blew cyclists over right at the start, shredding flags and banners and even toppling the portable toilets!
Despite all this, cyclists are a hardy lot – some would say masochists – and, as in the past, will take the day in their stride. The reward (apart from prize money for the top echelon) is a medal, vouchers for two soft drinks – and a major sense of achievement.
Described as the Tour de France of mountain biking, the Absa Cape Epic is the toughest and meanest 7 day mountain bike race on the planet.
Just how difficult the Epic really is, can be judged by the stage specifications. Starting on 21st March at Diemersfontein Wine Estate, the first day is a gruelling 117 km section which climbs to 2,190 m above sea level. The next stage includes a 90 km adventure with a 1,625 m climb.
The Epic’s reputation for unyielding cruelty to cyclists is further illustrated by the fact that no single day can be described as easy. Even the last day – traditionally the shortest route – and a “mere” 65 km, offers 1,640 m of climbing before the finish at Lourensford Wine Estate. This is where true courage is displayed. Many cyclists have arrived at this point with broken arms and deep gashes on their legs. But still they kept on cycling, determined to qualify as having finished.
Non-cyclists will often wonder what drives these individuals. The answer is multi-faceted. It’s the inherent desire to experience a new challenge, the opportunity to do what few others have done, and the satisfaction that goes hand-in-hand with the “I did it” feeling.
Story by Bernard K Hellberg
