Junior Cycle Tour gets more gruelling

It takes place at a military base, but the fun rides are a far cry from forced marches and army  training. The Tricycle and Junior Cycle Tour starts on March 9 on the grounds of the Youngsfield military base in Wynberg, a day before the Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour. While the Cycle Tour on Sunday is for pro-riders, weekend warriors and fit and not-so-fit families – its miniature counterpart is a chance for younger riders to get on their bikes and pedal around a track of level tarmac.

Last year, about 3 000 youngsters chased various routes on trikes and bikes. But while the event is returning to the same venue, there will be a few changes. Most notably, for the first time in the event’s history a child-care facility will be on offer for parents to leave their younger children while they ride the longer route with their older kids. The tricycle event, which is open to children between the ages of 2 and 6, has been lengthened. Instead of the 1.5km, little legs will have to push a bit harder as an extra 200m has been added.

There will be three starting times for the various age groups, with toddlers set to take off at 8.30am and 9.30am, and children between the ages of four and six set to begin at 10.30am. The Junior Tour will be open to children between the ages of 6 and 12. Last year, there was only a choice between 5km and 10km routes, but this year three routes have been made available. Young cyclists can choose from a short 2.5km route, a 5km route and a more testing 7.5km route.

When the children aren’t on the track they can keep themselves busy with a host of treasure hunts. There will be four stations, each with its own activities to complete. Registration will take place between March 1 and 8 at the Canal Walk Pick n Pay Court from 9am to 9pm and at the Cape Argus Lifecycle Expo on March 7 and 8 at the Good Hope Centre.

Staff Reporter