The fires that began on Sunday in Muizenberg have swept through the Cape Peninsula. Not only have they destroyed hectares of vegetation and displaced and injured many residents as well as the brave firefighters and volunteers, but they have also affected the much-awaited and well-established cycling event in Cape Town, the Cape Argus Cycle Tour. Yesterday, on Wednesday the 4th of March, the organisers behind this keenly anticipated event announced a route change, shortening the race from 109 to 47 km.

This adjusted route of 47 km in length is still a circular route as usual and starts from the normal position at the Civic Centre. It will go towards the end of the M3 and from that point will return in the same way to a moderately altered finish in Green Point. As disappointing as this news may be to those planning to participate in the race, the decision made by the organisers was only reached after much discussion and collaboration with the various stakeholders, and is the most practical in light of the damage that the fires have caused.

With the damage that the fires have caused along Chapman’s Peak, a part of the original route of the Cycle Tour, it became impossible for organisers to keep to their original plan. Moreover, the boulders along this part of the route have also expanded due to the fires and the heat wave that has swept through the Cape lately, leading to potential rock falls. This shortened route has been chosen to ensure the safety of the participants.

For those planning to station themselves along the route to watch as well, this is essential information if you don’t want to miss out on this event.

Take a look at the map below for the new route