Courageous cyclist, Joanna van de Winkel braved the inclement weather to lead female participants home, in a wet 37th edition of South Africas oldest classic road cycle race, finishing ahead of Carla Oberholzer and Nadia Stuckler for her debut win in Pietermaritzburg on Sunday, 22 October, 2023.
In what was a spectacular sprint finish in stormy weather, Van de Winkel won South Africa’s oldest classic road cycle race for the first time by edging out her rival Carla Oberholzer in 2:54,16.
The 106 km main race started at the Pietermaritzburg City Hall and finished on Masabalala Yengwa Avenue, outside the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium.
The severe weather did not deter the cyclists that chose to defy the weather GOD’s on the day. The race was one of guts and fierce competition, as riders tested their limits and raced out of their comfort zones, as they raced over the finish line with smiles that would make the sun envious.
Speaking to the media, van de Winkel, expressed her delight with having won the coveted title in such treacherous conditions, “I am a local, so it is very special to win. We had good team bonding in the rain, it came bucketing down at one stage, but we made it and it is awesome to be at the finish.”
The Amashova Durban Classic Race celebrates the spirit of community and inclusivity. The event featured a range of categories and age groups, ensuring that riders of all backgrounds could participate and experience the thrill of competitive cycling.
Results of The Women’s 106 km Amashova Cycle Race in Pietermaritzburg, on Sunday, 22 October, 2023
1. Joanna van de Winkel 2:54,16
2. Carla Oberholzer 2:54,16
3. Nadia Stuckler 3:07,30
Photo Caption: Joanna van de Winkel was delighted to lead the 106 km Amashova Cycle Race podium for her debut win in arduous 37th edition of South Africas Oldest Classic Road Cycle, finishing ahead of Carla Oberholzer (left) and Nadia Stuckler (right) in Pietermaritzburg on Sunday, 22 October, 2023. Photo: BikeHub.co.za