Local cyclists achieve podium places
The KZN Cycling Championships have been hosted for three consecutive years by Siegetown Wheelers Cycling Club, such is the popularity of this route
On Sunday morning, while much of Ladysmith snoozed, Siegetown Wheelers were up at the crack of dawn and preparing to host visiting cyclists, from as far afield as Durban, at their annual road race event.
Racing is done on an out-and-back course on the Besters / Braamhoek road, the longest distance being the 100km, which takes cyclists to the top of the beautiful De Beer’s Pass. The descent of this pass, on a bicycle, is as hair-raising as it is breathtaking. The 80km, 40km and 18km routes cater for all ages and abilities.
The KZN Cycling Championships have been hosted for three consecutive years by Siegetown Wheelers Cycling Club, such is the popularity of this route.
The results clearly illustrate the healthy state of Ladysmith cycling, as Siegetown cyclists managed to achieve podium places in virtually every race category. A total of 124 cyclists competed in the different categories.
Visiting cyclist Brendan Davids (U/23 men) managed to not only claim the coveted ‘King of the Mountain’ title and cash prize, but also took the gold medal in the 100km challenge.
The sponsors have an enormous role to play in the success of such an endeavour, so hats off to all the companies and individuals who assisted Siegetown Wheelers in keeping Ladysmith on the sporting calendar.
Ladysmith High School (LHS) staff and learners deserve special mention for marshalling the route.
Also deserving of high praise are the road safety personnel from RTI, led by David Steele, and Public Safety officers who saw to it that the day was concluded without incident.
Accolades continued to pour in this week from cyclists and KZN Cycling officials alike, who all spoke very highly of the outstanding organisational effort put into this event. Siegetown club chairman Dr Andre Beukes said the club will continue to host such events with the support of generous sponsors. He thanked everyone involved for their positive contribution.
