PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Local riders from The Bike Shop made a clean sweep in the elite 60km Tour de Plett men's race, with Rogan Smart taking line honours in a time of 2:29:52. The ladies podium was topped by Monica Taylor, also a local Plett resident, in a time of 3:40:28.
The Cycling South Africa-sanctioned event offers something for everyone with 16km, 35km and 60km options. It traverses 18 different properties in the Bitou area.
The Seeff Tour de Plett 2023 was held at the Keurbooms Lagoon Caravan Park and surrounding farms in the Bitou area.
"The once-a-year event allows riders to traverse many areas that are not accessible to cyclists during the year," said race organiser James Stewart.
A floating bridge sponsored by Buco opens up the whole area of the "marsh" created by the Bitou river, while other landowners allow the race to link through forests, fynbos and honey bush tea plantations.
Sadly this year's event will also be remembered for the passing of beloved Plett local adventure cyclist Ian Watt, who passed away during the race on Saturday.
Men's podium, from left: Alet Ollemans of Seeff Plett, Will Wertheim Aymes, Rogan Smart, Neill Clark and race organiser James Stewart.
Final results for the elite 60km races
Men:
- Rogan Smart –2:29:52
- Neill Clark –2:41:21
- Will Wertheim-Aymes – 2:54:39
Ladies:
- Monica Taylor –3:40:28
- Yvette Negrine –3:47:44
- Tania Pfaff –4:15:29
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