2017 CT Cycle Tour: My Thoughts

Sunday 12th March should have been the 40th edition of the Cape Town Cycle Tour, the biggest open, timed cycle race in the world. There were over 35 000 local and international cyclists waiting to test their mettle in what is one of those bucket-list events of physical and mental strength and endurance.

But then, during the night before, in the wake of SASSA (social grant) problems nationally, protesters had taken to the streets in an attempt probably to have themselves heard, burnt tyres and other objects, thereby completely damaging the road on the picturesque route, and in doing so, potentially endangering the life of every cyclist riding there later that day. So before the race had even begun, there had been a change to the race, reducing it from 109km to 78km, thanks to a detour away from the affected areas.

Then there was a second fire that broke out in Hout Bay, after a massive and devastating fire basically flattened over 650 homes and left thousands destitute in an informal settlement there only a day earlier. Emergency services needed to be deployed, and the roads in and out of Hout Bay needed to be clear for them.
 
And then there was that weather forecast that was rapidly changing from difficult to impossible conditions, with wind speeds reported to have reached nearly 100km/h in areas. Cyclists were unable to ride their bikes through the start without being blown off them.

So at 06h35, less than 20 minutes into the event, and with only three groups having left the starting blocks, the unprecedented decision to cancel the event was made.

These were my immediate thoughts:
 
Of course it's most definitely regrettable that the CT Cycle Tour has been cancelled:

As a Cycle WAG I know firsthand the time, money and effort that goes into entering and preparing for this race.

As a South African I know the benefits the city and country gain from hosting a successful event of this scale.

As a spectator I pray fervently for the safety of each rider doing the route, and want to see them overcome the physical challenge of completing the race.

I also, as someone with intel to the working behind the scenes, know that not one of the organizers or race sponsors would ever want to cancel. They are the ones who are going to bear the burden of this and be inundated with angry mails and social media complaints.

STILL...

While I am bitterly disappointed for the racers and fans (we were fortunate to see Andel ride up Edinburgh Drive while he was unaware it was cancelled), between new fires flaring up, roads damaged (due to), live protest action, and really wild wind, we have to trust that the difficult decision to cancel was made in the interests of the riders and their safety. And for that, I am so grateful!