The streets of Johannesburg buzzed with energy early on Sunday, 17 November 2024, as acting Mayor Cllr Eunice Mgcina fired the starter’s gun at 5:30am to officially launch the Virgin Active 947 Ride Joburg at FNB Stadium. She lauded the City of Johannesburg’s steadfast support for the event, emphasising the vital role played by logistics, road closures, and safety services provided by the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) and Emergency Management Services (EMS).
“This race is a testament to Johannesburg’s spirit and resilience,” said Cllr Mgcina. “We are proud to support an event that unites our community and showcases Johannesburg as a global cycling destination.”
Gibbons claims men’s crown in a thrilling finish
Ryan Gibbons delivered an electrifying performance, narrowly beating Reinardt Janse van Rensburg in a nail-biting sprint finish. Jaedon Terlouw, a rising star in South African cycling, secured third place, further cementing his potential as a future champion.
“This race is always special, but winning here at home is a dream come true,” said an elated Gibbons. “Competing against Reinardt pushed me to my limits, and I’m thrilled with the result.”
Grove dominates the women’s race
In the women’s competition, S’Annara Grove claimed a commanding victory, holding off a strong challenge from Namibia’s Vera Looser, who finished in second place. Hayley Preen rounded off the podium with a consistent and determined ride.
“It’s an amazing experience to race on closed roads and see the city in this way,” said Grove. “The support from the crowd and the City made today unforgettable.”
Celebrating Johannesburg through cycling
This year’s edition saw over 12 000 cyclists traverse the 97km route, relishing the rare opportunity to explore Johannesburg’s landmarks on traffic-free roads. Race Director Fritz Pienaar expressed his satisfaction with the turnout and the event’s positive economic impact.
“Ride Joburg is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of our city,” Pienaar remarked. “The participation numbers this year have been outstanding, and the event has made a significant contribution to the local economy.”
Behind the scenes, the meticulous planning and coordination by EMS and JMPD ensured a seamless event, with smooth road closures and robust safety measures allowing participants and spectators to enjoy the day worry-free.
As the winners celebrated their hard-fought victories and the streets of Johannesburg buzzed with festivities, the 2024 Virgin Active 947 Ride Joburg solidified its reputation as a premier event, bringing together sport, community, and the vibrant spirit of Johannesburg.
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