Amashova cycle race director reflects on journey

THE Amashova cycle race has gone through a few name changes in its 37 years of retracing the historic ‘Comrades’ route from Pietermaritzburg to Durban.

In its inception years, it was called the Maritzburg to Durban Classic, then the Amashova Shova, then it was shortened to Shova and is now known by its current name, the Amashova Durban Classic.

One person who has been at the forefront of the name changes, the growth in the events’ numbers and the expansion of the routes offered is race director Annie Batchelder.

“When I took over as race director in 1997, we had only about 400 entries. I realised that in order for the event to grow to give more cyclists a chance to participate, we needed the endorsement of both the eThekwini Municipality and the Msunduzi Municipality. With their involvement, we would have the support of metro police and road closures, meaning it would be safer for cyclists to be on the road.

“We also saw real growth when the Amashova became a seeding event for the Cape Town Cycle Tour (formerly the Cape Argus race). An added facet that has seen our numbers grow is the race timing. Because so many elite cyclists return from abroad over this period, with all major tours on hiatus, it gives the Amashova prestige by having the country’s best cyclists being able to take part,” she explained.

Batchelder said that in addition to the main 106km race, the 65km for the spirited rider and the family-friendly 38km route were also draw cards for cyclists.

“Whether you are a competitive cyclist taking part in 106km, a spirited rider aiming for 65km, or a newcomer embracing the 38km route, there is a ride specially tailored for you. For over 30 years, the Amashova journey has united people on bikes and those showing support on the side of the road. We found with the shorter routes that families were able to participate, and we have such a lovely loyal base of cyclists – they keep coming back and riding every year,” she said.

Batchelder said another aspect the Amashova focuses on is rider safety.

This year, they and the Road Accident Fund (RAF), in conjunction with the Department of Transport and metro police, hosted a Road Safety Awareness Day at Ethembeni Primary School, a school for physically disabled and visually impaired learners in Inchanga along the Amashova race route.

• This year’s event takes place on Sunday, October 22. You can still enter this year’s race – simply visit www.shova.co.za. Late entry fees apply.

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