The 25th edition of this iconic race will follow a slightly improved and gruelling route of 97km for all cyclists wanting to test their endurance, starting and finishing at the FNB Stadium south of Johannesburg

Once the starter pistol has been fired at FNB Stadium, cyclists will head out onto the Soweto highway for a brief loop, passing Joburg’s historic gold mine dumps, which are hugging Soweto, before turning back towards Main Reef Road.

“We’re shutting down some of the busiest roads on the continent to offer cyclists of all abilities a liberatingly safe space to realise their fitness goals,” race organisers explain.

Cyclists will get to experience scenic cityscapes as the route flows onto the M1 South, cycling in a northerly direction. For about 3km, the back-markers will be able to catch a glimpse of the racing categories jostling for position as they race towards the finish.

Riders will join the old route on the M1 to tackle a speedy set of undulating downhills towards Woodmead in northern Joburg. The race will then head up to Kyalami for an exclusive opportunity to zip around the world-class Grand Prix Circuit, before turning onto a new section down Main Road.

The first tough ascent comes on this stretch of road as riders climb up to Witkoppen Road, which also marks the King / Queen of the Mountain spot. The latter half of the route is quite hilly, but the views of Joburg’s leafy tree-lined streets are well worth the effort.

As riders get closer to the last 15km, they will cross the iconic Nelson Mandela Bridge before turning onto the M1 South to cycle past Gold Reef City. At this point, cyclists will catch glimpses of the FNB Stadium in the distance, marking the last end of a heart-throbbing ride.

The finish line for the ride will be on Nasrec Road, after which cyclists will ride inside FNB stadium for a hero’s welcome and great hospitality. Race organisers say cyclists will be refunded 100% of their entry fee should the event be reduced or cancelled due to Covid-19 protocols.

“Participation numbers are expected to shrink, but if numbers are reduced for compliance to Covid-19 regulations, entry will be on a first-in, last-out basis,” say race organisers.

After the Cape Argus Cycle Race, the 947 Ride Joburg is the world’s second-largest timed cycle race. It takes place every year on the third Sunday of November, in and around Johannesburg. Each year, more than 20 000 people participate in the tough 94.7-kilometre race organised by Primedia Broadcasting under the auspices of the City.

“Whatever your reason for riding, whether it is to become fit and healthy, to crush personal fitness goals, to ride for a greater purpose, to enjoy the lekker Joburg vibe or to race your heart out, we hope to see you at the start line,” race organisers enthuse.

Entries are open until Tuesday, 5 October. Click here www.ridejoburg.co.za to register.