![\"ccs-62657-0-86110300-1452067612.jpg\"](\"https:\/\/wp-media.bikehub.co.za\/production\/uploads\/2023\/02\/ccs-62657-0-86110300-1452067612.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a>Riders in full flight during the Circuit Spectacular criterium at Emperors Palace Classic. Photo: Supplied.<\/span><\/p>\nThe opening event takes place at the Berge en Dale Classic near Krugersdorp on February 6.<\/p>\n
Criterium racing \u2013 where participants compete on a short-lap circuit for a set time plus one lap \u2013 allows the country\u2019s top road riders to showcase their speed and agility in a way that no other format of the sport offers.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe saw the opportunity to invest in a segment of the sport not previously activated on a national basis,\u201d said Tony Harding of ProTouch Sports.<\/p>\n
He said this unexplored racing concept allowed them to be associated with a cycling property that did not compete with mass participation events for exposure.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis series will bring racing to the people and provide non-stop action,\u201d said Harding, adding that hotspots would be introduced into the adrenalin-fuelled mix.<\/p>\n
Each event offers a prize purse of R10 000 and the overall leader is awarded a leader\u2019s jersey before the start of each.<\/p>\n
The following age groups are catered for: U16, junior, under 23, elite and veteran men (30+, 40+ and 50+ age groups).<\/p>\n
Harding said the series presented a platform to promote the ProTouch Cycling Club, which provided members with free and discounted entries to races and bike parks.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe also offer discounts on products and services, special invites to rides, tour packages and more.\u201d<\/p>\n
Enter the first ProTouch Cycling Club Criterium Series event on www.asgevents.co.za<\/a>. The cost is R190 and bunches will be limited to 150 riders.<\/p>\n