The Fairtree Imperial Cannondale team had a fantastic showing at the Gravel and Grape race in the Slanghoek Valley on 6 May, claiming the top three spots in the Elite Men’s category and second place in the Ladies’ category.
The race was challenging, with an elevation of 1 050 m over a distance of 45 km, which featured some technical sections that were not for the faint-hearted. “However, the team was up for the challenge and it showed in the final results,” said team manager Chris Norton.
Luyanda Tobigunya led the way for the team, taking the top spot on the podium with a time of 02:15:26 in the Elite Men category. He was followed by teammate Sithembiso Masango, who finished in second place with a time of 02:18:32. Ongeziwe Tyapa rounded out the top three for the team with a time of 02:19:53.
The other team members also put in strong performances, with Siyabulela Tutu finishing in fourth place with a time of 02:41:41 and Atlahang Motsokotsi finishing in fifth place with a time of 03:04:42.
Thembela Lukalo was the only team member who raced in the 30 km distance, finishing with a time of 01:41:21.
The Ladies category saw Yomelela Mfazwa finish in fourth place with a time of 02:10:42, while Ongezo Mini finished in second place with a time of 01:59:15.
