Eyes on the road. Three, two, one, go! And as soon as the shot went off, cyclists took off at full speed to compete for the title of the iconic Virgin Active 947 Ride Joburg road race, with a prize purse of R200 000 for the first male and female winners. There was no shortage of fun, flair and excitement. The 26th edition of the race was a massive success.
Cyclists arrived as early as 5am at FNB Stadium on Sunday, 20 November 2022, to kick start the road race, and at 5:30am, the Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Cllr Mpho Phalatse, fired the starter’s gun to open the race for the elite men’s category.
Cllr Phalatse expressed excitement at seeing residents of the City “out in numbers to celebrate an open economy, healthy lifestyle with vibrant and colourful events such as Ride Joburg 947”.
She added that metro police officers, Emergency Management Services (EMS) and other entities were out in full force to ensure the safety of the cyclist from the starting point to the finish line.
Virgin Active 947 Ride Joburg Race Director Fritz Pienaar said more than 15 000 cyclists participated in the race, and he was happy with how the weather turned out on the day. “It’s a beautiful day, and the weather is great.”
He added that the shortened version of the route (35 km) was perfect for families and children. “The race is suited for everyone.”
This year, spectators cheered cyclists on from the sidelines and members of the Mayoral Committee (MMCs) accompanied the executive mayor to wish cyclists well at the starting line.
MMC for Economic Development Cllr Nkuli Mbundu said from a tourism perspective, the impact of an event like Virgin Active 947 Ride Joburg was big. “This allows us to sell the City internationally. We’re excited about this,” said Mbundu.
“This event is one of the most celebrated events in Johannesburg that not only gives the cyclist an insight into the beautiful city but also helps the cyclist stay fit and have fun with R200 000 up for grabs,” said Cllr Ronald Harris, the MMC of Community Development.
Harris apologised to the residents who were affected by the road closures during this massive event.
Bongi Mokaba, the City’s Director of Events Management, said the race highlights beautiful scenes and routes along the way.
“The route shows iconic areas and sites. When they return, they look over the Mandela Bridge, and it doesn’t get better than that. This is also promoting a healthy lifestyle because people practice throughout the year,” she says.
Cyclists received a hero’s welcome at the finish line. Vera Looser crossed the line first in the women’s race. She was followed by Tiffany Keep in second and Kim Le Court in third. In the men’s category, Reinhardt Janse van Rensburg won in a tight sprint. Marc Pritzen came in second and Gert Heyns was third.
Written by Brümilda Swartbooi and Getrude Mamabolo