ON December 14, cyclists from Amanzimtoti and across the region took part in a stand-out event that gave a whole new meaning to a morning ride, Cycle Sunday.

Also read: Amanzimtoti Cycle Club hosts annual Jona Vaughan Charity Ride

The M4 Ruth First Highway in Durban was closed to cars between Moses Mabhida Stadium and Portland Drive in Umhlanga from 05:00 to 09:00, so the entire roadway could be used by riders of all ages. Organised by Cycle Lab in partnership with Peschl Sports, the event opened one of Durban’s most scenic coastal routes for recreational cycling, creating a rare traffic-free experience along the M4. This stretch of road normally carries heavy commuter traffic, but on that day it became a long ribbon of cyclists, from families with kids to seasoned riders.

Amanzimtoti Cycle Club’s Barry Walker said the event was not a race, but the focus was on enjoyment, community, and promoting cycling as a safe, accessible activity that brings people together. Cyclists could start from any on-ramp along the M4 because there was no set start or finish line, and support vehicles and water points were available to keep riders going through the four-hour window.

“Alongside the main ride, there were activities geared toward younger cyclists, including a kids’ festival with shorter courses, music, food and even a Marvel Bike Race for children under 12 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium lawns,” said Walker.

For many who took part, the chance to pedal freely along a major coastal highway with ocean views and sunshine was a memorable experience.

Do you have more information pertaining to this story? Feel free to let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or you can contact our newsroom at 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist.