Young cyclists will be able to join in on The Herald VW Cycle Tour excitement on Saturday, February 1, due to a full line-up of children’s and family events to choose from.
Powerade representative Cheryl Price and Reach for a Dream beneficiary Rochelle Momberg (on bike) share a Coke ahead of the Powerade-sponsored children’s events, which form part of The Herald VW Cycle Tour on February 1 and 2. All proceeds from these events benefit Reach for a Dream. Photo: Coetzee Gouws/Full Stop Communications
These various Powerade-sponsored road and mountain bike races will roll out from Hobie Beach in Port Elizabeth and Addo Polo Club in Addo respectively.
Event organiser Linda Harwood said the main beachfront race village was traditionally abuzz with excitement on race day as hundreds of juniors turned out for the rides.
“There really is an event for everyone.”
She said all proceeds from the events would once again benefit long-standing beneficiary Reach for a Dream, which helps to make the wishes of children with life-threatening illnesses come true.
“It’s a great opportunity for kids to help other kids while having loads of fun at the same time.”
Harwood said the little ones could take part in the 500m Toddlers’ Dash or 2km Kiddies’ Ride at Hobie Beach on Saturday morning, while parents and older children could ride as a family in the more demanding 10km Sprint and 21km Leisure Ride that follow.
“All the children who take part will receive medals, goodie bags and bottled water,” she said.
“Plus there’ll be a photo booth, where you can have your photo taken and printed on the spot to remember your special day.”
Harwood said one lucky participant would also pedal away with an age-appropriate new bicycle, courtesy of bike and technical support partner Cyclo Pro.
Out at Addo, young mountain bikers can sign up for the 500m Toddlers’ Dash and 5km Kiddies’ Challenge, or team up with their moms and dads for the 30km Leisure Challenge.
As official drinks sponsor of the cycle tour, Coca-Cola Fortune will not only be sponsoring the kiddies’ races under the Powerade brand but is also bringing the “Share a Coke” campaign to the race village.
The worldwide campaign, which sees consumers getting a personalised can of Coke, was launched nationally on November 1 and is set to run until the end of March.
According to CCF trade marketing manager Cheryl Price, the aim of the campaign is to make Coke part of every consumer’s personal identity and everyday life.
The bottler will bring the “Share a Coke” kiosk to the race village on the Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning, and give away 2 000 personally branded 200ml cans to cycle tour fans and riders.
“I urge you to come on down and have it done because it’s a first for Africa and it’s a great novelty item to keep forever.”
The Coca-Cola Waya Waya entertainment truck will also keep spectators entertained at the race village throughout the weekend, while another mobile unit will refresh riders at the waterpoint on the Maitlands climb in Sunday’s 106km Classic feature race.
“We make sure that every athlete is hydrated – en route as well as at the finish,” said Price.
Late registration for the children’s events will take place on the morning of the races.
Enter at www.heraldcycletour.co.za or find live updates at @heraldcycletour and www.facebook.com/TheHeraldCycleTour.
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