Toti Mambas slay Sani Dragon
Condolences to Hennie Englebrecht and his family on the death of his wife Cecile
AMANZIMTOTI Cycling Club extends its sincere condolences to Hennie Englebrecht and his family on the death of his wife Cecile who died peacefully on 23 September after a long illness.
She was a longstanding member of Amanzimtoti Cycle Club, having ridden numerous times the Tour D’Urban. Amashova, Argus and 94.7, always on the back of a tandem with Hennie and everyone said she was the engine at the back.
Her memorial service was held last Wednesday and the club had a service ride in her honour, meeting at Baggies Beach and had a slow ride through Warner Beach to St Winifreds Methodist Church. Club members can think of no other way to pay tribute to a fine woman. May her soul rest in peace.
With what some consider to be the most grueling road race in South Africa, the Amashova Race, approaching on 16 October, the club’s roadies wanted to ensure their legs are ready and so decided some long distance training rides were in order. The week before last they started at the ever-popular Oscars in Hillcrest and rode the undulating terrain, tackling Fox Hill and Drummond Bowl but still managing to see the beauty of the Valley of a Thousand Hills. This past weekend they headed south and enjoyed a fast pace to Park Rynie and back.
Some Mambas might say they rode the most grueling MTB race this past weekend, when they saddled up for the Sani Dragon two-day stage race. It took place with day one forming a large loop incorporating some of the most scenic district roads, jeep tracks and single track in the Underberg and Himeville area. Day two had perfect weather but the Sani Pass climb proved to be better suited to the youngsters who marginally beat Hendrik Bester and his partner Brennan Anderson, making them come second in a time of 4hr 26mins. Ian Sayer and Andrew Glover managed to place fifth in a time of 5hrs 45min. Warren Egan rode solo and managed a fifth with a time of 5hrs 19min.
Hendrik Bester went on to ride the Lake Eland Classic on Sunday and said it was one of the toughest 45km races in very trying weather conditions, very strong winds, rain on the start line and lots of mud. He managed to finish eighth overall and was first vet home.
Other Mambas had a great weekend riding Burg2Berg whose aim is to give adventurous riders the opportunity to explore the real beauty of the Berg and its magnificent views. It’s a weekend of scenic, fun and non-competitive cycling. Nestled in the Champagne Valley, this stage ride caters for the entire family as well as the cyclist looking for peace and quiet in the mountains, away from the everyday stress. Luxury tented accommodation is available with five star catering. Home-cooked comfort meals and pudding are on the menu; not to mention the cakes, brownies and shortbread at the watering tables. All Mambas felt they came first in this ride as they were rejuvenated and ready to tackle life again.
Amanzimtoti Cycling Club holds its annual general meeting on 12 October at Lords and Legends at 7.30pm sharp. The club asks all members to attend the AGM. Only paid-up members are allowed to vote, so if you are uncertain as to whether you are a paid-up member, contact Karin Liebenberg via email at karinliebenberg@therugby.co.za. The agenda is on the website www.amanzimtoticycle.co.za.
