Tshwane Classic a ride through history

The Tshwane Classic road cycling race will take riders on a trip through Pretoria’s rich history when the 98km event is held on November 5.

Put on by ASG Events, race spokesman Mauritz Meyer said they wanted to promote the historical significance of Pretoria, while also giving cyclists a high-quality event.

“There are a number of famous landmarks along the route and we are working with the municipality to create awareness of these among those who are riding.”

Besides the start and finish venue being at the Voortrekker Monument, which was built in 1948, he said the riders would go past the Kgosi Mampuru ll Correctional Centre.

“This was formerly known as the Pretoria Central Prison and was the official site of punishment for political activists during the apartheid era.”

He said the route would take cyclists past the Kruger statue in the centre of Church Square, a landmark commemorating former South African president Paul Kruger.

Also on the route are the Union Buildings, which house the executive arm of the government and were designed by Sir Herbert Baker and completed in 1913.

“A statue of Nelson Mandela, first president of the democratic South Africa, is at the front of the buildings,” said Meyer.

“Another major landmark on the route is Freedom Park. It was completed in 2004 and is a memorial to honour those who sacrificed their lives for freedom.”

Tshwane executive mayor Solly Msimanga said the metro had thrown its weight behind the race to make it one to remember.

“As you can see, the city has many interesting attractions and places of historical value. This race will be unique on the South African cycle calendar as it will also be a tourist route.”

While the elite riders and adults tackle the road races over distances of 98km and 60km, the younger generation will be fully catered for with a series of events within the race venue at the Voortrekker Monument.