Helderberg Clean Up Double Century

The Helderberg Ladies Team fan out across the road for a team victory in the weekend’s Coronation Double Century, finishing just less than 38 minutes ahead of nearest rivals, the Millenium Fast Chicks team. Pictures courtesy Hannes Oosthuizen.

The Helderberg Ladies Team cycled to victory during the grueling Coronation Double Century (presented by Cycle Lab) in Swellendam this past weekend, with approximately 2000 cyclists participating in the team-based cycling event. 

A little help here, a little push there, that’s what team work is all about.

Cyclists were treated to near-perfect cycling conditions after a week of heavy storms in the Overberg, and while the faster cyclists experienced a largely wind-free race, teams who were still on the route after lunchtime had to battle some challenging headwinds. 

Most cyclists agreed that the Swellendam start provided a big psychological advantage, knowing that the major hills could be conquered within the first 60km of the race, and some called it their best Double Century yet!

According to Hanlie Booyens, team captain of the victorious Helderberg Ladies Team, this was their best Double Century. "We had a great team and were able to ride consistently. Apart from going for the first place, we aimed to finish together and being able to do that was fantastic!"

This was the first time that so many female racing teams had entered the Double Century, a fact that Booyens attributes to female racing teams receiving the recognition they deserve through equally attractive prize money.

The Helderberg Ladies Team celebrating victory in the weekend’s Coronation Double Century. They are (from left to right): Kelly Tome, Janneke Leask, Michelle Lombardi, Hanlie Booyens, Jane Seggie, Ellané van Wyk, Cathy Carstens, Amanda van Wyk, Erica Green, Marelise le Roux. Picture courtesy Hannes Oosthuizen.