Momentum 947 Cycle Challenge a success
FOURWAYS – More than 33 000 cyclists took part in this year’s Momentum 947 Cycle Challenge, which took place on 15 November.
Now in its 19th year, the cycle challenge attracted both young and old – all persevering to cross the finish line.
Ashleigh Moolman-Pasio finished first for the ladies in 2:34:01, and was followed by Sabrina Stultiens in a time of 2:34:58 and Floortje Mackay in third in a time of 2:35:05.
In the men’s category, first to cross the finish line in a time of 2:15:23 was Stefan de Bod. Clint Hendriks came second in a time of 2:15:29 and Darryl Impey in third in a time of 2:15:32.
Speaking at the press conference held after the race, Moolman-Pasio explained that she was ecstatic to take the win, especially after a bad fall during the race, “… All the odds were against me – in a four-man breakaway with Sabrina and going down the suburbs of Johannesburg I’m a very fast descender – I think I hit a hole and my hands came off the handlebars so I fell really hard, and at one point I thought it was race over,” she said.
Moolman-Pasio added that being able to race on home soil was very special, and it really pushed her to win.
Stultiens said, “In the end, Moolman-Pasio was very fast and I couldn’t catch her. I was very tired but had to continue.”
Moolman-Pasio added the challenge was a great stepping stone for women’s cycling in South Africa, despite the many difficulties.
Winner of the men’s race, De Bod said, “We are happy with the times, but we don’t race for time. We race for positions.” He explained that the team had a plan and strategy in place, and were happy with their performance.
Moolman-Pasio thanked Momentum and the radio station for an incredible race and congratulated all those who took part.
Premier of Gauteng, David Makhuru, described the cycle challenge as a nation-builder. Makhuru, who also took part in the race, encouraged more Africans to take part and urged businesses to sponsor cycling clubs in disadvantaged communities. “Unfortunately I only finished 40kms of the race, but I salute everybody who took part,” he concluded.
Details: www.cyclechallenge.co.za
