Annual Kremetart Stage Race cancelled for 2023

Date: 25 August 2023 By: Andries van Zyl

Official notice: The annual Kremetart One-Day Stage Race has been cancelled for 2023 and will only be re-hosted in June 2024. This decision was communicated in a statement issued by the race organisers last week. Persistent roadworks on the route (for which all are grateful) and changes in sponsorship were listed as reasons for the cancellation.

“It is with a heavy heart that Kremetart announces the postponement of the race, originally scheduled for 9 September 2023, due to unavoidable roadworks on the cycling route and the withdrawal of our valued sponsor. Our commitment to delivering a safe and top-quality race experience remains unwavering, and we want to assure all participants, sponsors, and cycling enthusiasts that this decision was not made lightly,” reads the statement. ZZ2 was the main sponsor until last year.

The organisers’ announcement was not received well by all; some were very outspoken on Kremetart’s Facebook page. The situation was exacerbated by the fact that the Kremetart has now been postponed for the second time this year. Originally, the race was supposed to take place on 10 June this year. “Kremetart Cycling Race, I’m sorry to say, but your planning is useless, and you have disappointed the entire cycling community of Limpopo. Despite the circumstances, two postponements in a year taint your name and reduce your credibility for future races,” wrote Anver Ayob on the Kremetart Cycling Race’s Facebook page. “Nooooooo. There goes my R3 800 accommodation deposit. Guys ... not cool,” wrote Philip Fourie.

In their statement, the Kremetart organisers explain that the current roadworks present a safety concern for the riders, and as responsible race organisers, they prioritise the safety and well-being of all involved. “Simultaneously, the withdrawal of our sponsor has prompted us to reevaluate and enhance the overall race experience, ensuring that we maintain the highest standards that our participants have come to expect. The integrity of the race is of the utmost importance, and we are not prepared to host a substandard race,” the statement reads.

Amidst these challenges, the race organisers also brought exciting news of possible new developments and opportunities for the Kremetart. “We are actively exploring ways to elevate the race to new heights, offering an even more thrilling and memorable event. We understand that the postponement might be disappointing, but we firmly believe that this extra time will allow us to create an extraordinary experience that will exceed your expectations,” say the organisers.

So, what happens now? The race organisers say that all existing entries will be seamlessly transferred to the rescheduled event in June 2024. “In a show of gratitude for your unwavering support, we are pleased to confirm that the entry fees will remain at their current reduced price. We understand the commitment you've made to being a part of this race, and no price increase will affect your entry,” say the organisers. Those not wishing to transfer their entry were given seven days from the date of the notice (18 August) to request a refund.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants, sponsors, partners, and cycling enthusiasts who have stood by us through these challenges. Your support is a driving force behind our determination to make Kremetart an unparalleled success. Stay tuned for further updates as we unveil the exciting new developments that await this event,” say the organisers.

Despite some backlash over the second postponement, some stated that they would compete, irrespective of what happened. “Will definitely be there in June 2024! Still the best race,” remarked Gilli Read on the Facebook page.

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Andries van Zyl

Andries joined the Zoutpansberger and Limpopo Mirror in April 1993 as a darkroom assistant. Within a couple of months he moved over to the production side of the newspaper and eventually doubled as a reporter. In 1995 he left the newspaper group and travelled overseas for a couple of months. In 1996, Andries rejoined the Zoutpansberger as a reporter. In August 2002, he was appointed as News Editor of the Zoutpansberger, a position he holds until today.

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