Stage two of Pedal Power ride hots up

The ride that commenced from Cycle Lab Fourways in early September embarked on stage two of the 20-day national cycling tour from Johannesburg to Cape Town.

Members of the Toyota Free State Cheetahs rugby squad joined the cyclists in the second stage’s safe cycling awareness mass ride from Oranje Toyota in Bloemfontein. Some 20 km into the ride they reached the turnaround point where a ghost bike, a bicycle painted white to commemorate those cyclists who have lost their lives on South African roads, was erected. A ghost bike was also erected last week at the Lion and Rhino Park during the first stage of the tour.

“We are proud to be associated with Toyota as the title sponsor of the Cheetahs and it is great for us to be part of this initiative to promote cycling safety,” said Toyota Free State Cheetahs fly half, Johan Goosen.

After completing more than 500 km in the first stage, cyclists will tackle over 800 km during the second stage of the tour.

Seen at the start of stage two was David Bellairs, committee member of the association and director of the Cape Town Cycle Tour Trust – organisers of the iconic Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour.

“It is so encouraging to see the support for safe cycling here in Bloemfontein this morning. We cannot emphasise the importance of safe conditions for cyclists enough – safe roads, dedicated cycle paths, mutual respect between cyclists and other road users. Cycling is an environmentally friendly pastime that keeps social riders fit and healthy, while for many South Africans it’s an affordable means of transport. All cyclists – social and commuters – need to be kept safe and this tour is a huge step in the right direction to create the necessary awareness.”

Stage two ended on 20 September, when cyclists arrived in Oudtshoorn for two days of rest. The tour will then begin the final stage between Oudtshoorn and Cape Town.

Details: www.pedalpower.org.za.