Premier Winde to participate in Cape Town Cycle Tour

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde will be among the 35 000 cyclists taking part in this year's Cape Town Cycle Tour, riding in support of the Atlas Foundation.

The Cape Town Cycle Tour is a major event on the Western Cape's sporting calendar, attracting thousands of cyclists, and supporters to the province for the race weekend. 

Premier Winde said: "As a keen cyclist, I look forward to this event every year, but it is about so much more than cycling. The economic impact on our tourism and events economy is major, but beyond that, is the amount of money it generates for good causes and charities in our city."

Organisers of the Cape Town Cycle Tour estimate that over the past five years, R45 million in funding has been allocated to the Pedal Power Association and the Rotary Club, which is spent on social upliftment and development cycling in communities including Ocean View and Masiphumelele.

"Over the years, the Cycle Tour and the Pedal Power Association have provided bikes to people across the province, improving mobility and they have played an important role in supporting development cycling opportunities and cyclists in this province," Premier Winde said.

"I will be riding in support of the Atlas Foundation, which uses rugby to improve the lives of young people. The Atlas Schools Programme helps to instil a culture of respect, discipline, tolerance and self-confidence in girls and boys, helping them to become role models to others. This is very much in line with our commitment as the Western Cape Government to make our communities safer through behavioural change and violence prevention strategies."

"The Atlas Schools Programme is currently active in the Western Cape in Ocean View, Masiphumelele and Atlantis- helping to young people in these communities to expand their potential," Premier Winde said.

Premier Winde also re-iterated the Western Cape Department of Health’s message to remain calm regarding COVID-19 (Coronavirus), and that events can continue to go ahead at this stage.

“There are currently no confirmed laboratory cases in the Western Cape, and there are no directives at this stage regarding limiting large gatherings. We are in close contact with the National Department of Health and the National Institute of Communicable Diseases, as well as other key partners, and will inform residents should any changes to this position take place. Please remember to practise good hygiene etiquette at all times. More information on this can be found on our dedicated page: www.westerncape.gov.za/coronavirus”

“I wish all those taking part the best of luck on the road on Sunday, and hope they, and their support teams are able to enjoy a wonderful weekend in the Western Cape."