The inaugural ride of the Western Cape’s Cross Cape cycling route kicks off next month.
Alan Winde, Minister of Economic Opportunities, announced that the first ride along the 742km route from Plettenberg Bay to Stellenbosch would start on 12 May. Ahead of the ride, Minister Winde will outline the route at an event in Stellenbosch.
Minister Winde, who is leading the inaugural ride, invited residents in each of the participating towns to join the group as they travelled through each leg.
“The inaugural ride officially opens the route and we are very excited about the economic opportunities Cross Cape will unlock in towns along the route.
“Individual riders will be able to complete the route, event organisers can arrange races and local entrepreneurs will package their own offerings around the route. There is no cost to ride the route, and it is open to all throughout the year.”
Cross Cape is an initiative of the Project Khulisa growth strategy, which outlines a set of action plans in high-potential sectors, namely tourism, agri processing and oil and gas. As part of Project Khulisa, there is the target of adding a further 100 000 jobs to the tourism sector.
Wesgro CEO Tim Harris, said: "We're incredibly excited and proud to launch the new Cross Cape Cycle Route. This route will provide cyclists in the Cape dynamic trails as well as a multitude of invigorating experiences ranging from delicious culinary offerings to awe-inspiring sights and sounds."
Stellenbosch Executive Mayor, Gesie van Deventer, said: “It is very exciting to be included in the first Cross Cape cycling route. It is an honour to host the pre-ride event in Stellenbosch and welcome Minister Winde and the participants of the inaugural ride. This new route opens up new job opportunities across various sectors for our residents and visitors will have the opportunity to discover and explore the many hidden gems tucked away in our valley.”
Details for the pre-ride event:
Date: 11 May 2017
Venue: Stellenbosch 360 Visitor Information Centre
Time: 10:00am
For the full ride schedule - click here
Bronwynne Jooste
Spokesperson: Alan Winde, Minister of Economic Opportunities
Responsible for Tourism, Economic Development and Agriculture
Western Cape Government
Physical Address: 142 Long Street, Cape Town
Tel: 021 483 3550
Cell: 060 970 4301
Email: bronwynne.jooste@westerncape.gov.za
Website: www.westerncape.gov.za
Twitter: bronwynnejooste