40 years of Amashova: KZN gears up for iconic cycling event
The Amashova is more than just a race, it's a decades long tradition that brings together cyclists, families and communities for one of KwaZulu-Natal's most loved sporting events.
The Amashova National Classic is celebrating its 40th year, and the 2026 event is shaping up to be one of the most memorable.
Thousands of cyclists, including international riders, are expected to descend on KwaZulu-Natal on Sunday, July 19, for the province's oldest road cycling race.
40th Anniversary celebrations
The Amashova National Classic started in 1986 when two friends, Springbok cyclist Dave Wiseman and Tony McMillan, had the bright idea to have a bicycle race on the famous Comrades Marathon, between Pietermaritzburg and Durban.
After a few hiccups, they managed to organise the first race, with just 150 riders participating. The 2025 event drew over 3, 500 cyclists.
Amashova officials have made a few changes for the 40th anniversary edition.
There will be three route options this year: 106km, 70km and 40km routes. The 106km Classic will still start at Pietermaritzburg City Hall, but the 40km ride starts at Westown Square in Shongweni.
All routes will finish at the Masabalala Yengwa Pedestrian Bridge in Durban.
Regardless of which route you take, you will feel like you are part of something special.
"The landmark 40th edition promises to celebrate not only the race’s rich legacy, but also the spirit of unity and resilience that has defined the 'Shova' for four decades," race officials said.
FUN FACT: The Amashova race was originally called ‘The Natal Mercury/Pick n Pay National Classic.’
Why KZN loves the Amashova
The Amashova is more than just a race. It has become an important part of KZN's culture, and is one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year.
The family-friendly event attracts elite cyclists, beginners and social riders. Friends and family of all ages sign up for the event together, as it caters to riders of all abilities. There's even room for tandem cycling.
Children as young as 10 can also take part in the action. They qualify for the 40km race, while cyclists need to be at least 12 for the 70km and 14 for the 106km.
The energy along the route is electrifying, with spectators lining up to cheer on the riders.
Amashova officials are big on family, and partnered with Cycle Sunday for a special Father’s Day event on Sunday, June 21.
The festivities helped build up excitement for the upcoming Amashova National Classic, and gave locals a taste of the ‘Shova’ spirit they can expect.
Amashova legacy: Henk Duys
Henk Duys is also celebrating an impressive milestone this year. He has been there since the beginning - literally.
Duys is the only cyclist who has participated in every single Amashova race that has taken place over the past 40 years. The 80-year-old has become somewhat of a local legend over the years, earning the respect of the cycling community.
Duys wasn't a pro cyclist when he rolled his R120 second-hand bicycle to the start line in 1986. In fact, he was struggling with his health and took up cycling to improve his fitness.
“I was overweight, lethargic and under a lot of pressure. Cycling changed all of that. It helped me lose weight, clear my mind and gave me a new outlook on life."
“It has always been more than exercise. It has been meditation on a bicycle.”
Duys still cycles every week, and he hopes to make it to the start line on July 19.
What kept him around all these years? Duys says it was more than just crossing the finish line.
"In the beginning, we all wanted to improve our times, but the camaraderie was just as important. We rode with friends, helped one another and shared the experience. That’s what keeps people coming back year after year.”
FUN FACT: Shortly before the start of his first race, the derailleur on his bicycle snapped. Lucky for him, his wife Wendy had dropped him off, and there happened to be a spare bicycle in their vehicle.
What to expect for the 2026 Amashova event
It's not too late to enter the 2026 Amashova National Classic. While online entries closed at 12pm on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, late entries will be available during number at an additional cost.
"Please note that you will NOT be able to enter the events on race day."
Cyclists participating in road events longer than 20km are required to have a licence (CSA Membership). You can register or renew your membership here.
If you are only taking part in this year' event, you can purchase a day licence for R70.
Don't miss out on the chance to be a part of the milestone 40th anniversary edition of the Amashova National Classic.
Visit the Amashova website for entry details and full event details.
FUN FACT: The Amashova has had full road closure for 26 years.
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Image credit: Supplied