Amashova National Classic come back on October South Africa Cycling Calendar

September 19, 2024

Oldest Road Classic Cycle Race in South Africa, Part of Gran Fondo World Tour® Since 2018

/OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ – The Oldest Road Classic Cycle Race in South Africa has been a part of the prestigious Gran Fondo World Tour® series since 2018. The race features two challenging routes: the classic 106 km course, which follows the legendary Comrades Marathon route, and a longer 132 km course, which starts at the iconic Nelson Mandela Capture Site.

The Capture Site, located near Howick in KwaZulu-Natal, marks the place where Nelson Mandela was arrested in 1962. A commemorative sculpture by artist Marco Cianfanelli stands as a striking landmark in the landscape. Since 2016, the Apartheid Museum, in collaboration with the KZN Provincial Government, has operated a museum at the site, making it a point of historical and cultural significance.

The classic 106 km route traces the path of the Comrades Marathon, established in 1921. This ultramarathon covers approximately 88 km (55 miles) between Durban and Pietermaritzburg, and is the world’s oldest and largest ultramarathon race.

For cyclists looking for a different challenge, the event also offers 65 km and 38 km routes, both of which head toward Durban, bringing participants together to celebrate South Africa’s biggest Gran Fondo event. The race finishes at the Suncoast Tsogo Sun site on the Golden Mile Beachfront, a vibrant and picturesque spot.

“We’ve been coming to the KwaZulu-Natal region and Durban since 2018, and it feels like home, thanks to our local family of organizers who host us on our world tour,” said Dani Buyo, CEO of Gran Fondo World Tour®. “Cyclotourists from around the world should experience the Amashova at least once in their lifetime. Annie Batcheler, the true soul of the Amashova, coordinates an enthusiastic staff to manage hundreds of crew members, ensuring an unforgettable event for all participants.”

There’s still time to join the excitement—last-minute registrations are available at: https://www.shova.co.za.