The elite women’s field at the Momentum 94.7 Cycle Challenge will be racing for Olympic qualifying points following the granting of UCI 1.1 status for the Johannesburg road race on November 15.
International super-cyclist, Marianne Vos (left), South Africa’s international cycling champion Ashleigh Moolman-Pasio (right), and Cycling SA’s Women’s Commission Director, Lise Olivier (centre)
According to race organisers and Cycling South Africa, the endorsement will result in an influx of the world’s best female cyclists for the classic.
For more news see: 94.7 Cycle Challenge
Last year, the race was won by Dutch cyclist Marianne Vos ahead of South African star Ashleigh Moolman-Pasio.
With the Tour of Rwanda taking place the preceding day, the application to have the men’s race UCI rated was denied by the international governing body for competitive cycling.
CSA general manager Mike Bradley said various conditions would need to be met for the women’s race, including a minimum prize purse and competitors from at least five countries.
He said CSA would assist teams with rider accommodation and logisitics and extend invitations to other African nations.
“The UCI’s World Cycling Centre in Africa will also be hosting a women-only training camp for African riders leading up to the event. This is great for Africa, but in particular for our South African women.”
