Dis-Chem Ride for Sight 2026 celebrates growth and inclusion
The race saw over 4 000 riders, the biggest field since Covid19, take to the road, while para-category grew to over 60 cyclists.
Dis-Chem Ride for Sight race director Linsay Engelbrecht hailed the success of the 37th edition of the event as a step in the right direction.
The race saw a record field of over 4 000 riders taking part in the 125km super classic and 62km races, as well as an 8km fun ride, at Boksburg City Stadium on February 15.
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Christiaan Klopper and Lucy Young won the men’s and women’s main events.
“We are very excited. The turnout was incredible, despite the cold weather,” she said.
Despite disruptions in their preparation for the event after road damage on a key intersection on the original route forced them to increase the main race to 125km, Engelbrecht was happy with how the riders took on the new challenge.
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“It was tricky. We had to change our route. Our 116km had to be increased to 125km.
There were some unexpected road works that took place, but I think it was a blessing in disguise.
“People are seeing this as a challenge. They are excited to see the new route. We are excited to host the event and can’t wait to hear the feedback from the cyclists.”
Growth
Engelbrecht, who represented SA at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games in 2022, has seen steady growth since taking over from Claudette Medefindt last year.
“Every year, we grow. That’s exactly why I’m here – to grow this event. I really hope the cyclists enjoyed it today. I hope they can see the organisation and preparation that went into this paid off,” Engelbrecht said.
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The race helps Retina SA raise funds to find a cure for retinal blindness. It has so far raised over R5m to fund research for the disease at UCT.
Inclusion and opportunities
Over 60 para-cyclists took part in the race. Engelbrecht said this was the biggest crowd since the para-category was introduced in 2024.
“The para-category holds a special place in my heart. We are very proud it is the largest growing inclusion event in SA. We had about 60 para-cyclists and some people who are completely blind on tandems with their pilots. I’m so excited to see that these athletes took time to train in the past six to eight weeks and are here today.”
She reiterated the importance of inclusion in the race, saying their emphasis is on creating awareness and giving the disabled opportunities.
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“If we create enough awareness and opportunities, we will actually have an amazing para-team in SA that can represent us internationally. We just need to give those opportunities to these people. We have some incredible athletes in the country.”
Responding to what it would mean if Sascoc could use the race to scout for para-athletes, she said it’s something the organisation should consider.
“This is a growing event, and we are always recruiting para-cyclists to come here. I think they feel safe in this race.
“It’s the most welcoming race in SA. I feel they feel they are part of the team. Retina SA actually undertakes to ensure the para-cyclists feel welcome, and I’m very proud,” said Engelbrecht.
