The inaugural Tour de Franschhoek was held on Saturday 23 July and Sunday 24 July – the final weekend of the Tour de France. As the name suggests, the Tour is based around the beautiful town of Franschhoek, with an emphasis on being laid back and having fun.
For the more competitive riders, there were timed Strava King of the Mountain segments along the routes. The riders “seed” themselves in three peletons – Avancée, Moyen, and Ralentissez – based on how strong they felt on the day. All while enjoying the organiser’s theme of a “relaxed, enjoyable cycling tour”.
Riders gathered on Friday evening at Taki’s to meet their fellow participants and enjoy good wine and food together. With rain falling outside and an overnight temperature of 2 degrees, the fire was a welcome comfort for all.
As an official supporter of the Tour, Haute Cabrière was the wine of choice.
Jon Adams and Jamie Osman share some stories.
Carbo-loading for the first stage in the morning.
Saturday’s 44km first stage took riders up and over the Franschhoek Pass and back again.
Early morning registration. USN supplying energy snacks and drinks.
A classic Pinarello for a classic race.
CHIC riders enjoying a warm coffee before setting off.
Although it was cold and wet, riders still took the time to get to know each other and, of course, check out each other’s ride.
songo.info were out in full force.
Sacred Ground was the meeting point on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Their fresh coffee warmed bodies before heading out into the morning cold.
Jon Adams taking care of the rider briefing.
A quick group photo before tackling Franschhoek Pass.
International media interest was at an all-time high as the riders prepared to head out.
After each stage, the riders gathered in the Tour de France Fan Zone to enjoy lunch and watch the final two stages of the French event together.
On Sunday the 50km route included the notorious Helshoogte Climb among its three King of the Mountain sections, which were linked together by neutral zones.
Guillaume Wessels talking tactics with the other riders.
Back at base times were uploaded to Strava to see who took the day’s King of the Mountains.
Overall winner Azukile Simayile and Guillaume Wessels in their maillot bleu. The other category winners were Wolf Stinnes and Quinton Ivan.
Following the two days of riding together, participants met at Bread & Wine Vineyard Restaurant just outside Franschhoek for prize-giving.
A jolly bunch of people.
The winners of the Bollé sunglasses celebrated in style.
Some awesome photots!