A record-breaking number of entries is anticipated for the 21st anniversary edition of the popular aQuellé Tour Durban cycle race to be held on Monday 28 April this year.
The event has seen a sharp rise in entries in recent years, with that trend set to continue as early entries start to pour in at race headquarters.
“Entries have already doubled compared to last year this time and we expect more than 5 000 cyclists to take to the roads this year,” said Stu Berry, Business Director of Impi Concept Events.
Berry says the growing interest in the Durban race is in line with the national trend where cycling is becoming the fastest-growing sport in South Africa.
Berry says although it can be an expensive sport for the specialist rider, it is affordable at entry-level and is becoming more accessible and popular in Durban.
One reason for its growing popularity is that it is fast becoming a family-oriented sport, while also continuing to set new challenges to conquer for the professional and serious cyclist.
The organisers of aQuelle Tour Durban believe that while the race caters for the professional rider with its 105 km race, it also provides the opportunity for the leisure cyclist to pedal 45 km along a scenic and easy route along the coast north of Durban.
The new 55 km cyclo-cross race, introduced last year, is set to once again, attract the off-road enthusiasts.
The growing number of cyclists in Durban can also be contributed to the foresight of the eThekwini Municipality which is transforming the Durban beachfront into a cycling hub for the public.
“It makes perfect sense that cycling will continue its upswing in Durban, as we have the perfect weather, scenery and track record with hosting major sporting events,” said Berry.
The cycle fraternity is also known as a generous bunch and that is evident with the aQuelle Tour Durban donating all profits to orphaned and vulnerable children of the Domino Foundation.
“The Tour d’Urban started out as a cycle tour with a ‘heart’ as it was organised by Rotary 21 years ago and we want to continue the generous spirit of this race,” concluded Berry.
Visit: www.tourdurban.co.za
