CHERISE Stander may have moved from the South Coast to Stellenbosch, but she is still treasured by local cyclists and residents alike.
Her late husband, cycling icon Burry Stander, was killed in an accident in Shelly Beach in January last year.
Cherise is well and truly back on the bike, and kept Burry’s memory alive while winning the women’s event of the 37th Cape Argus Pick n Pay Momentum Cycle Tour last weekend.
She won comfortably, wrapping up a hat-trick of wins in the event.
The fact that her father and uncle were two of the 35 000 odd cyclists in the event made it even sweeter.
However, it was Burry that she honoured with the win. She explained that he, as well as her late grandmother, had been a motivating influence in her life.
Her broad smile after the race was an indication that although last year was an extremely difficult one, she is now getting things back on track.
Cherise now has her sights set on the Absa Cape Epic which will take place from March 23 to 30.
The legendary mountain bike race takes place through the stunning Western Cape region and is as tough as it is beautiful.
Last year Cherise raced with Burry’s brother Duane, in memory of Burry, a past winner.
This year Cherise will ride with Theo Blignaut, a well respected rider in his own right, in the mixed category.
