A new beginning for cycle race

The West Rand’s largest cycle race, the Berge en Dale Classic, is moving from Silverstar Casino to Cradlestone Mall. Race director Wynand de Villiers said their move was necessitated by the race’s growing popularity.”We are busy laying the groundwork and this year we expect 4000 riders to turn out for the race.” The race will take place this Saturday 8 February at 6am.

The new start/finish venue is at the intersection of the N14 and Hendrik Potgieter Road in Muldersdrift. Riders will cross the finish line and turn left into the mall’s large parking area.

“The mall offers a lot to see and do once the cyclists have completed the race. It also keeps friends and families occupied while they wait for riders to come in.”

De Villiers said the rest of the route remains unchanged.

As a premier seeding event for the Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour, Berge en Dale is ideally positioned one month before the Cape Town race. It also allows possible participants and back markers to gauge and improve their fitness levels ahead of South Africa’s largest event.

For those not quite ready to tackle the big 99km race, organisers have thrown in a 55km option.

With good road surfaces and assistance from the Mogale City Metro traffic officials, the event has gained a reputation as one of the safest races in Gauteng.

De Villiers said his organising team concentrated on getting the basics right and not making unnecessary changes to a winning formula. “We just strive to present a better event every year.”

Details: eventsupport@asgworld.co.za, www.cyclelab.com, 076 621 1807.