Safer Berge en Dale Classic route approved
Both the 102 and 55 kilometre options are still in full swing.
Organisers of next weekend’s Berge en Dale Classic confirmed a change to the official race route after receiving the go-ahead from local authorities.
Route director Darren Herbst said they made the decision in conjunction with the Mogale City Local Municipality Traffic Department to divert the iconic West Rand cycle race from its traditional course due to ongoing road works on the N14 and R28.
“Riders will take a detour off Beyers Naudé Drive after Valverde Country Hotel to access Muldersdrift from the opposite side via the Cradle road past Kloofzicht Lodge.
“This means riders will access the R28 at the same spot as in previous editions, but from a different side.”
Herbst said that he was excited about the change to the race as it had been on the cards for a couple of years.
“After speaking to the Department of Roads and Public Works, they assured us that the repairs on the M14 will be completed well before the event and that we can finish in the same place we do every year,” Herbst added.
He said Berge en Dale attracted between four and five thousand riders annually and that “one can never be too safe.”
“Safety arrangements around the race are quite substantial,” he said, but warned riders not be complacent and to stay on their toes during the event.
This will be the first leg of the new ProTouch Cycling Club Criterium, a bike race consisting of several laps around a closed circuit, Series.
“Berge en Dale has become an institution on the cycling calendar over the past 16 years,” said Herbst.
“Cyclists come out year after year for the challenge and our duty is to try and evolve the race. The criterium will definitely add an extra dimension to it.”
Even though Berge en Dale is an important race for the country’s top cycling professionals, the race will also accommodate social riders.
“From a social rider’s perspective, it is the beginning of the season and we try to create a good atmosphere for them – a day that they will remember,” Herbst explained.
The event, which includes the 102 kilometre feature race and shorter 55 kilometre option, takes place on 6 February.
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• Eyob earns first Berge en Dale win
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