WELKOM – Cycling continues to bring together riders of different ages and abilities in the Goldfields, with the Welkom Cycling Club playing an important role in promoting the sport and providing opportunities for cyclists to test themselves on the road.

The club’s commitment to cycling was on display at the fifth annual Free State Challenge road race, held in Welkom on 10 October.

The event attracted 164 entries, including seven professional teams, and welcomed participants from across the country.

Cyclists travelled from centres such as Bloemfontein and Johannesburg, while others came from as far afield as East London in the Eastern Cape and Barberton in Mpumalanga.

The Free State Challenge featured three distances – 20km, 50km and 100km – catering for different levels of fitness and experience across various age groups and open categories.

Cyclists demonstrated their strength, courage, resilience

The 100km licensed men’s race delivered a close contest, with Gustav Roller and Ryan Gibbons sharing the top spot after both recorded a time of 2:10:35. Kellan Gouveris followed closely behind.

In the 100km licensed women’s category, Marzaan Mellett claimed victory in 2:32:46 after a strong breakaway.

Madelaine le Roux finished second in 2:32:48, just two seconds behind, while Lisa Bone took third place in 2:35:57.

The results highlighted the competitive standard of the event and the opportunities it provides for both established riders and emerging talent to compete.

Now in its fifth year in Welkom, the Free State Challenge has become an important fixture on the local cycling calendar.

Its ability to attract professional teams and participants from several provinces helps raise the profile of cycling in the region.

Events such as this also give recreational cyclists an opportunity to participate in organised road racing, with shorter distances offering an accessible entry point for riders who are not yet ready for the full 100 km challenge.

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