Today’s Cape Town Cycle Tour has been bittersweet. The air at the Grand Parade was filled with excitement at the starting point – with no wind and perfect weather conditions. The 35 000 participants at the start line were abuzz with anticipation for the race ahead. Sadly, it didn’t end well for a 40-year-old male rider who passed away during the race.
The pile-up incident, involving 20 cyclists, occurred at Wynberg Hill on the M3 this morning. In a statement, the Cycle Tour Media Office said, “One of the cyclists, a 40-year-old male, received immediate medical attention at the scene but, tragically, his injuries proved fatal.”
The City of Cape Town’s JP Smith also confirmed, “One male cyclist was killed.”
No other details have been made available. A briefing will take place later today.
We extend our condolences to the family of the man who lost his life this morning.
Western Cape Premier Helen Zille and Cape Town mayor Patricia De Lille were among some of the dignitaries to welcome the first group of cyclists at the race.
Premier @helenzille and I are together at the start of the #CTCycletour2018 Wishing riders best of luck for the 109km pic.twitter.com/fXuKs4SNzU
— Patricia de Lille (@PatriciaDeLille) March 11, 2018
