Cycling as a family

IT is about living life to the fullest for Westville couple Wendy and Ian Miller as they prepare for their seventh Amashova race. Apart from sharing a home and children, the couple share the same interests, which has led them to six successful Amashova races and many other cycling races.

The couple said they were introduced to Amashova through their love for outdoor activities, including cycling. Recalling their first race, the Millers said they were determined to go for their second one the following year.

“Our first race was the 65km race, which we did not find challenging. As outdoor people, it was a short distance, which made it less challenging. With all our races after that, we have tried to do more so we can enjoy the race and still find it challenging. We enjoy uphill routes as this is more fun and challenging,” they said.

ALSO READ: Family achieves 65 years as a Ford franchisee

The couple said cycling together has been a thing for them. “We enjoy keeping fit and healthy, and cycling is one of the sports that offers the best way possible to do that. The cycling community is filled with warm and good people. We have participated in many races, not just the Amashova. We do all these races together, and with Amashova, we take a selfie together at the beginning of the race and at the end,” said Wendy.

Ian said they do not train for a specific event, but training has become a lifestyle. He said they cycle every morning in their area. “Our last official Amashova race was in 2019 before Covid. During Covid, we trained locally where we were introduced to more people, which is what the sport is about. The community is filled with supportive people; even during the races, we would cheer each other up. We really enjoy the freedom of being on the bike,” he said.

Wendy said they are also advocates of keeping cyclists safe on the road as they are part of the Pedal Power Association. “It is both the cyclists’ and drivers’ responsibilities on the road to keep each other safe. We encourage people to have the relevant cycling gear, things such as bright clothing and bikes with lights. Cyclists and drivers are encouraged to be at least one metre apart to avoid cyclists being knocked off their bikes,” she said.

ALSO READ: How to enjoy quality family time

The Millers said they consider cycling as a family sport. “It is better when it is done together. One of our granddaughters is keen on joining, and our son-in-laws also take part. We enjoy doing it as a family. We also enjoy keeping fit through the sport. It is the most safe and sustainable way for your body as you grow older,” they said.

The couple said they are looking forward to their seventh 106km Amashova race.

THE Amashova Durban Classic began in 1986 and has been successfully taking place for the past 36 years – making it SA’s oldest ‘classic’ cycling race.

The idea of having a bicycle race on the route of the world-famous Comrades Marathon was the dream of veteran Springbok cyclist Dave Wiseman and his friend Tony McMillian. Apart from the race being one of the oldest, it’s also one of the prettiest with picturesque and challenging routes that will see cyclists young and old, from beginners to advanced, participate in the 38km, 65km and 106km routes.

This year, the Amashova Durban Classic will take place on October 23. Entries are now closed.

Race numbers can be fetched at The Globe, Suncoast on Friday, October 21 from 09:00–18:00 or Saturday, October 22 from 09:00–16:00.
You will be required to produce your valid CSA licence or proof of provincial affiliation at registration or you will be required to purchase an event licence.

Start times:
106km start from 06:00
65km starts from 05:00
38km starts from 05:00