The Western Cape is known for many things, not least of all its abundance of annual events, which keep tourists flooding in all year round. These events range from lifestyle expos and baby fairs to wine tastings and international music concerts . Sporting events feature highly on the annual calendar of Western Cape events, proving to be very important to the tourism industry and all of its offshoots.
The Cape Argus Pick ‘n Pay Cycle Tour™
Every March, thousands upon thousands of sportsmen and –women partake in this 105.5 kilometre cycle. In fact, it is the largest sporting event of its kind in the world. Their families, friends and supporters line the streets of Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula to shout encouragement and support the athletes. This competition is open to anyone aged 12 years or older. The views of the ocean and mountains are spectacular and the ambience unrivalled.
The Cape Town Two Oceans Marathon™
The Two Oceans Marathon™ is a 56 kilometre run that takes the participants via Chapman’s Peak, Hout Bay and Constantia Nek (weather and safety conditions permitting). It showcases the point at which the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean meet, and is known as one of the most visually spectacular sporting events in the world. This marathon was first run in 1970. There is also a Half Marathon option for participating athletes.
The J&B Met™
During the hot summer months of Cape Town (usually January or February), thousands of horse racing enthusiasts, as well as those who simply enjoy the glamour and excitement of this event, descend upon the Mother City to be a part of the J&B Met™. The Met is more than just a gold circle horse racing event, and guests are assured of one of the biggest parties imaginable after an entire day of riveting horse racing. Prizes are given for costumes, entertainment, and more.
The Freshpak Rooibos Fitness Festival™
The picturesque Western Cape town of Clanwilliam is host to this event, which is ideal for people of any fitness level and age. It comprises a combination of running, cycling and swimming. There are specific options for children that want to participate in FitKids or the shorter Fitness Challenge. This event promotes good health for the entire family.
Other important sporting events in the Western Cape include:
- The Staalwater Mountain Bike Challenge (Caledon)
- The Crazy Store Table Mountain Challenge (Cape Town)
- The Bainskloof Ultra & Half Marathon (Bainskloof)
- The Cape Town Marathon (Cape Town)
- The Cape Outdoor Adventure & Travel Expo (Franschhoek)
- The Freewheeling 2011(Stanford)
- The Fair Cape Mountain Bike Challenge (Durbanville)
- The Cape Town International Kite Festival (Muizenberg)
- The Genadendal MTB Mission (Genadendal, Cape Overberg)
- The Constantia Valley Grape Run (Constantia, Cape Town)
- The International Oriental Dance Festival (Cape Town)
- The CANSA Relay for Life Mamre (Mamre)
- The Rustenberg Farm Race (Stellenbosch)
- The 3 Peaks Challenge (Atlantic Seaboard)
