Girls just want to have fun. And so do boys
This event has proved to be extremely popular with the ladies since its inception over 10 years ago and now equally with couples wishing to ride together.
Why?
Well probably a mixture of the relaxed vibe coupled with the feel of a “protected peloton” making riders feel safe and comfortable on the road. Also the competitive elements, being optional, put no-one under any unwanted pressure.
How?
The protected peloton consisting of a lead car, the most experienced moto outriders, elite ride captains, with both medical and mechanical support creates a kind of “bubble” in which the riders can ride as a social group. Effective rolling road closures are provided by the moto marshals and traffic police where necessary.
But…
Riders can escape the bubble and compete with their friends by racing for leaders’ jerseys on various “flagged” sections, either hill climbs, “GC” sections or time-trial. After each section things calm down and life in the “bubble” resumes, moving more sedately onto the next water point or lunch or whatever comes next.
When & Where?
This three day road event is based in Montagu over 25-27 October 2024, starting and finishing there each day , and covering the majority of the Old Mutual Wealth Double Century (“DC”) route over Days 2 & 3, providing perfect acclimatisation for those competing in the DC some 4 weeks later.
More Details Please
Registration – Riders convene on the evening of Thursday 24 October 2024 for registration at the Mimosa Country Lodge, followed by an optional “Burger special”!
Day 1 – 07.00 – 100km Escorted by traffic police riders will leave Montagu to ride up the Koo Valley, with the two challenges of the day ahead – the ascent of the flagged sections of the Burgers ang Rooihoogte Passes. In between the 2 climbs is a short (optional) time trial for those wishing to measure themselves in the “race of truth” after which comes the first water point at a truly Karoo farm stall. After refuelling, the ascent of Rooihoogte Pass at 1,234m awaits. Then a lightning fast descent and a social ride back to Montagu where lunch awaits at the Blu Vines and the first jersey presentations and awards.
Day 2 – The Queen stage -07.00 – 160km (110km option) Departing Montagu via Cogmanskloof turning left before Ashton onto the rolling roads of the R60, towards the first “Green jersey” section of ≈ 13km allowing those who wish to “open the taps” at full gas. The race section concludes just before another farm stall stop outside Swellendam at the Keurbomen Cheese Shop. Joined by more moto marshals, the traffic police and marshals escort us through Swellendam town on our very own Saturday morning blue light cavalcade.
Then onto Suurbraak and the left turn onto the Tradouw Pass, signalling the start of the third and final hill climb to decide the overall climber’s jersey winners. A water point regroup and then on to Joubert Tradauw for lunch at 110km. Riders who wish to fully enjoy the wine farm’s offerings can climb into the bus for the 50km ride back to Montagu. For the majority, the grind up the Op de Tradouw follows lunch with its long descent and roll back into town.
In the evening a gala dinner is held at the Mimosa Lodge where award winning Swiss chef Bernard Hess will again delight us all. More jersey presentations and awards amidst a fun and festive atmosphere.
Day 3 – 07.00 – 106km – A relaxed start to the final flatter day where we meander alongside the Breede river where the final ≈14km race section finds us with our friends at the water point at the Bonnievale Cellars for coffee and even wine tasting for those who wish. Returning back through Bonnievale town, one final water point en-route, before our arrival at the Kloof Padstal for a champagne reception, lunch and final presentation and awards.
Learn More and Enter
For rider testimonials and entry details go to www.capeclassic.info
