Historic 40th Amashova National Classic celebrates cycling heritage and new champions

The 40th edition of the Amashova National Classic delivered a spectacular celebration of South African cycling on Sunday, July 19, 2026, as thousands of riders took to the roads of KwaZulu-Natal to mark four decades of the country’s oldest and most iconic road cycling event.

Celebrating its milestone 40th anniversary, this year’s race attracted riders from across South Africa and beyond, bringing together elite competitors, weekend cyclists, families and first-time participants for a day that honoured the event’s rich history while embracing its exciting future.

Among those celebrating this historic occasion was cycling legend Henk Duys, who etched his name further into Amashova history by becoming one of the few riders to complete all 40 editions of South Africa’s oldest classic road cycling race, a remarkable achievement that reflects his lifelong commitment to both the event and the sport.

The elite 106km race once again produced thrilling competition from start to finish, with South Africa’s top cyclists battling for honours on the challenging route between Pietermaritzburg and Durban.

In the men’s race, Ryan Gibbons claimed victory in a time of 2:12:11, while Gustav Basson secured second and Tyler Lange completed the podium. The women’s title went to S’annarra Grove, who delivered an outstanding performance to secure the victory ahead of Sonica Klopper in second and Megan Botha in third place.

The 106km race started at the historic Pietermaritzburg City Hall, with the 70km and 40km riders joining along the route before all participants crossed the finish line beneath the Masabalala Yengwa Pedestrian Bridge in Durban.

From seasoned Amashova legends, who have supported the event for decades to newcomers experiencing the race for the very first time, the spirit of determination, camaraderie and celebration was evident throughout the day.

The milestone edition also paid tribute to Amashova founder, Dave Wiseman, whose vision helped establish the race in 1986.

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Ahead of the start, Dave was recognised for his extraordinary contribution to South African cycling and received a warm ovation from riders and spectators before taking his place on the start line. Following his recent battle with cancer, his successful completion of the anniversary race proved to be one of the most inspiring moments of the day and a fitting reflection of the resilience and determination that have always defined the Amashova.

Adding to the excitement of this year’s 40th anniversary was the introduction of the Amashova Criterium ‘Dash for Cash’, an exciting spectator-friendly circuit race held at Suncoast following the main event.

The first 20 men and first 20 women across the Amashova finish line qualified to compete for a share of the R55, 000 prize purse, treating spectators to fast-paced racing and an electrifying finale to a memorable day of cycling.

The inaugural Amashova Criterium Dash for Cash proved to be a crowd favourite, with spectators lining the circuit to cheer on the country’s fastest riders as they battled wheel to wheel in a thrilling showcase of speed, tactics and endurance.

In the men’s race, Gustav Roller claimed the inaugural Dash for Cash title, while S’annara Grove emerged victorious in the women’s race after an exciting contest that brought the 40th anniversary celebrations to a fitting conclusion.

“The 40th Amashova National Classic has been everything we hoped it would be and more. This anniversary has been about celebrating the incredible people who have built this race over four decades, including our riders, volunteers, sponsors, partners and supporters. To see so many cyclists sharing in this milestone and embracing the new additions to the event has been incredibly rewarding. We are immensely grateful to everyone who helped make this landmark year such a memorable success,” said Annie Batchelder, race director of the Amashova National Classic.

The continued support of eThekwini Municipality, Msunduzi Municipality, Metro Police, SAPS, emergency services, volunteers, sponsors and community partners once again ensured a safe and successful event for all participants and spectators.

With the successful conclusion of its landmark 40th anniversary, the Amashova National Classic continues to strengthen its legacy as South Africa’s oldest and most iconic road cycling event.

Organisers look forward to building on the success of this milestone edition as planning begins for the 2027 race.

For full results from the 2026 Amashova National Classic across all race categories, visit https://results.finishtime.co.za/