Nearly 3,500 cyclists defied inclement weather to complete their journeys to Durban during the Amashova National Classic, South Africa’s premier Gran Fondo event, held on Sunday at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium along the Durban coastline.
Participants in the 126 km race began their early morning ride from the Nelson Mandela Capture Site in Howick, Umngeni, joining the classic route at the historic start line of the Comrades Marathon in Pietermaritzburg, in front of City Hall. At 5:30 AM, Mr. Chris Pappas, the Mayor of Umngeni Municipality, welcomed the long-distance riders, setting a tone of determination for the day ahead.
Despite starting in misty conditions, the weather quickly turned rainy, yet the cyclists pressed on through the challenging elements. Upon arrival at the Southern Sun Tsogo Sun Globe Lounge, they were greeted with a warm welcome and refreshments.
In a competitive finish, S’Nara Grove from South Africa claimed victory in the women’s classic distance, while Switzerland’s Felix Stheli topped the men’s category. Both cyclists completed the race in an impressive 2 hours and 14 minutes, averaging nearly 49 km/h, overcoming slippery roads and difficult descents toward Durban’s coast. During the awards ceremony, Mr. Cyril Xaba, the Mayor of eThekwini, delivered an inspiring address, emphasizing the city’s dedication to supporting South Africa’s oldest cycling classic. Additionally, the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Sports, Arts, and Culture, Hon Mntomuhle Khawula, personally congratulated the elite winners and all finishers.
Moses Mabhida Stadium served as a vibrant hub for over 3,000 cyclists in this thrilling edition of the Amashova. With sponsorship lounges and the awards ceremony held just steps from the finish line, Durban Tourism played a vital role in solidifying the city’s reputation as a premier sports tourism destination. Together with Gran Fondo World Tour® and Amashova race management, Durban aims to host the 2026 Gran Fondo World Championship®, marking the first time this prestigious event will take place in Africa, and highlighting the continent’s growing appeal for cycling and sports travel.
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