Oudtshoorn, 18 November 2024 – The 2024 Timbercity Event in Oudtshoorn, proudly hosted by Eden Cycling Association in collaboration with the Oudtshoorn Municipality, held on 10 November 2024 was a huge success. This prestigious event drew 420 riders, alongside their managers, families, coaches, and members of the Western Cape Cycling Association and Exco. It brought together participants from five regions—Cape Metropole, Cape Winelands, Eden, and Overberg—and representatives from four provinces: Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Gauteng, and Free State.
This event featured a thrilling road race and a 1-mile sprint, where South Africa’s top cyclists competed for podium finishes. Now in its 13th year, this annual event demonstrates Eden Cycling Association’s leadership in organizing high-quality, safe, and inclusive cycling competitions. As a premier seeding event for the 2025 Cape Town Cycle Tour, it once again highlighted the region’s commitment to transformation, development, and professionalism in the sport, with the full endorsement of Cycling South Africa.
Corné Bence, President of Eden Cycling Association, and Luwellyn Coetzee, Senior Manager: of Strategic Services, congratulated Richard Young, the oldest cyclist at 83.
David Bellairs (Cape Town Cycle Tour Trust) who attended and participated in the event, praised the Eden Cycling Association for the high standard of professionalism and event organization and congratulated the organizing committee for the outstanding work on this event, “Congratulations on a job well done on the development and transformation of rider and a special thanks to Corne and Karin Bence for all their hard work and countless hours that they put into Cycling all year round.” He also thanked the cyclist for supporting the event and said that he valued the fact that the event was in Oudtshoorn as it caters for a lot of visitors and participants.
Corné Bence, President of Eden Cycling Association, wants to thank David Bellairs from the Cape Town Cycle Tour Trust, “His recognition of Eden Cycling Association’s transformative efforts and community impact is a testament to the hard work of the organizing team.”
The organizers extend their deepest gratitude to all sponsors and supporters who made the event possible. Timbercity’s André van Greunen (Now retired), DCAS, Gerhard Naude, Lindi Blaw, and Paul provided unwavering support, alongside key contributions from Route 62, Coke, Squirt, Enduran, Excelsior Wyne, Cango Caves, Buffelsdrift, and other local businesses. The Oudtshoorn Municipality and Provincial Traffic Department were instrumental in ensuring smooth operations and logistics, while the Western Cape Cycling Association supported riders with critical funding for transport and accommodation.
“The Timbercity Event has grown into a cornerstone of cycling in South Africa, and this year’s turnout shows the passion and dedication of everyone involved. We are immensely proud of what we have achieved, not only in promoting the sport but also in creating a sense of community and transformation. We thank all our partners, participants, and supporters for making this event a highlight on the cycling calendar.”
Cllr Leon Campher expressed his gratitude to Eden Cycling Association, stating: “We are proud to host the Timbercity Event in Oudtshoorn. This event not only highlights top cycling talent but also brings valuable economic and social benefits to our town. A big thank you to Eden Cycling Association for their dedication to supporting cycling and choosing Oudtshoorn for this special occasion.”
The Oudtshoorn Municipality is proud to support an event that celebrates top cycling talent while bringing our community together. The Timbercity Event has become a key part of South African cycling.