Results are in for the 36th Amashova

RETURNING with the full 106km race route this year after Covid-19 disruptions last year, the Tsogo Sun Amashova Durban Classic took place today, Sunday, October 23.

The first elite cyclists crossed the finish line this morning with a very close competition in the ladies’ and men’s races.

Marc Pritzen came first in the men’s elite race with a time of 02:22:20.200, followed by Travis Stedman in second place with a time of 02:22:20.427. Eric Kros placed third with a time of 02:22:20.457.

First in the ladies’ race was Cherise Willeit with a time of  02:52:52.100, followed by Jo van de Winkel with a time of 02:52:52.20 and Bridget Theunissen in 02:54:50.600.

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Now in its 36th year, the Amashova is the oldest classic cycle race in South Africa.

Here are a few more facts about the race:

Fun facts about the Amashova:

• The Amashova was the first race in KZN to be recognised by both cities of eThekwini and Msunduzi and awarded full road closure.
• It is the third-largest road-cycle race in South Africa.
• It is the only road-cycling race in Africa that is recognised by and complies with UCI race standards, and in 2010, it was the first race in Africa to be UCI-accredited.
• The route follows the same one as the famous Comrades Marathon route and with full road closure, and has used the same route for the last 22 years – aside from last year due to Covid-19 restrictions.

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• The Amashova is made up of an all-women organising team, who between them, have over 50 years’ experience in organising this popular race.
• There are 28 official vehicles tracked by Netstar that will ensure the safety of riders and form part of the vital communication network of the event.
• There are 298 marshalls along the route.
• Food Lovers are providing 45 boxes of bananas and 48 bags of oranges.
• There are 28kg of biscuits and 28kg of sweets provided to cyclists along the route at waterpoints.
• There are five waterpoints on the route.
• 5750L of Aquelle still water are provided to riders on the route, and 5750L of Aquelle Khula drinks and 40 000 cups are being used on the route.