Amid the uncertainties of the coronavirus, organisers of the Amashova Durban Classic are exploring every imaginable avenue to make the event a reality this year.
Organisers of the Amashova Durban Classic are exploring all possible avenues to ensure the event takes place this year. Photo: Supplied
The race, which offers four distance options, is scheduled to take place between Pietermaritzburg and Durban on October 18.
“We are patiently waiting for government’s decision about how events will be positioned in the lower lockdown levels,” said race director Annie Batchelder.
She added that her team had already been in touch with the disaster management and tourism offices in Durban to find ways of making it a success.
They have also been working closely with Cycling South Africa and other key organisations should the race be granted permission to go ahead under strict social distancing regulations.
“Our number one priority in this planning phase is to make the necessary arrangements for safety and hygiene,” she said.
Organisers are investigating the possibility of a virtual race if the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture does not allow mass participation events come October.
The race would then consist of an online expo, virtual goodie bags, race-day video of the route and the ability for participants to post their race times online.
The Amashova Durban Classic has also introduced a refund policy, full details of which are available on the website and upon request.
“We’re appealing to all South Africans to continue supporting local businesses and to remain open to developments we’re investigating to keep the spirit of the race alive while maintaining the safety of our participants.”
Last year’s 160km men’s feature race was won by HB Kruger, while Werner Roux and Carla Oberholzer won the men’s and women’s 106km events.
