As the wheel spins closer to this weekend’s mammoth Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour, we look at some of the world’s biggest races that are hosted right here in South Africa. Perfect for anyone who loves extreme travel and tourism!
The Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour: World’s Largest Individually Timed Cycle Race
The Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour is a gruelling 109km cycle challenge with an estimated 35,000 cyclists from South Africa and around the world. The route follows some of the steepest inclines on the Cape Peninsula and offers spectacular scenery if you can afford to take your eyes off the road for even a second. The annual event has expanded to include a MTB challenge, Junior Tour, Tricycle Tour, and Lifecycle Expo. The Cycle Tour is also the first event outside of Europe to be included in the International Cycling Union’s Golden Bike Series.
Midmar Mile: World’s Largest Open Water Swim
The annual Midmar Mile celebrated its 40th anniversary in February 2014 and is officially recognised as the world’s largest open water swimming event by Guinness World Records. While the record officially stands at 13,755 (2009), the 2014 event saw around 14,800 swimmers cross the Midmar Dam near Pietermaritzburg. The Midmar Mile captures the spirit of sport with participants ranging from 5 to 89 years old, including able and disabled bodies, from amateur swimmers to Olympic champions and world record holders.
Comrades Marathon: World’s Largest Ultra Marathon
The Comrades Marathon is not only the world’s largest, but also the world’s oldest ultra marathon with a fascinating history that dates back to 1921. 18,000 runners have registered for the 2014 race, which covers a distance of approximately 90km from Pietermaritzburg to Durban (the start and end points alternate every year). The route includes 5 difficult hills where the genuine spirit of camaradie is evident as competitors encourage one another along.
Dusi Canoe Marathon: World’s Largest Canoe Marathon
The Dusi Canoe Marathon starts on the uMsindusi River in Pietermaritzburg and winds approximately 125km through a series of rapids to Durban. Roughly halfway, the uMsindusi and uMngeni Rivers meet, compressing into a churning mass of rapids that challenge even the strongest of athletes. The race is unique in that most of the large rapids can be portaged if desired. The 2014 event was held mid-February, with over 1,400 paddlers taking on the white waters.
Have you competed in any of these big races? We’d love to hear about it!
Feature image supplied by the Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour
