Third 100Miler biking event ends in Swellendam

SWELLENDAM SPORT NEWS - The Chas Everitt Around the Pot - Overberg 100Miler - presented by SEESA, takes place on 20 July.

The 2019 biking event is sponsored by SEESA, and the last 5 km of the race has been changed to travel through the town.

Starting and finishing at the showgrounds, the full distance route takes in many of the region's natural splendour and at the 100 km mark crosses the Breede River on the country's only remaining hand-drawn ferry at Malgas. Before embarking on the ferry, riders will have an opportunity to refuel and enjoy roosterkoek hot from the coals. The final 60 km of the race returns to the rolling hills known as Die Rûens.

The finish line awaits in the historic town at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains. "We are thrilled that the municipality has agreed to road closures in town, which allows us to provide a fitting end to the Overberg 100Miler," says Rudolf Botha of Petrichor Adventures, organisers of the race. "The final 5 km now take riders through town, showcasing some of the Cape Dutch architecture and providing an easier run into the finish at the showgrounds."

According to Botha, the team is delighted at the growth the event has shown since its inception in 2017. "In 2019, which is just the third edition, we expect 1 500 riders over the three distances.

The 100Miler, 65Miler and 25Miler route options provide a gravel racing experience for virtually all levels of cyclists."

Online entries close at midnight on 17 July. Registration for the races can be done at the showgrounds from 15:00 to 21:00 on Friday 19 July, or on Saturday morning between 05:00 and 06:30. The races start at 07:00 and all the festivities take place at the Swellendam Showgrounds. For more information and online entries visit www.aroundthepot.co.za, the Facebook page Around the Pot, or follow on Instagram at @around_the_pot.

Roosterkoek straight off the coals provides a fitting local way to refuel for the final 60 km back to Swellendam. Photos: Oakpics.com.