Gran Fondo World Tour ® with a new race date for mighty Amashova National Classic marks 39 years in KZN’s cycling legacy

July 15, 2025

The Amashova National Classic began in 1986 making it SA’s oldest ‘classic’ cycling race. And part of Gran Fondo World Tour ® since 1998

July 15, 2025 /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – An Iconic Celebration Return, Amashova National Classic 2025. What began nearly four decades ago as a tribute to cycling camaraderie has blossomed into one of South Africa’s premier sporting fixtures. The Amashova National Classic marks its 39th edition in 2025, debuting a new race date—Sunday, 20th July 2025.

Known for its mild, inviting winter climate from May through July, the updated schedule is expected to entice even more cyclists to test themselves on KwaZulu-Natal’s legendary route, retracing the footsteps of the historic Comrades Marathon.

A Gateway to Global Competition

This year, the Amashova joins the Gran Fondo World Tour® as the African continental representative, serving as a qualifier for the Gran Fondo World Championship®. Local cyclists now have an unparalleled opportunity to compete against international contenders, with their performances reflected in the renowned GFWT® ranking, provided by Procycling Stats. www.granfondoworldtour.com

With over 3,500 participants expected to tackle the variety of race distances, organizers anticipate a surge in entries—especially from cyclists beyond provincial borders. The introduction of a 132 km route, starting at the symbolic Nelson Mandela Capture Site in Howick, has added depth and meaning to the event.

As Race Director Annie Batchelder explains:

“It’s a meaningful and symbolic start location that elevates the event’s sense of purpose and place. The Amashova has always had a strong humanitarian and community spirit, with many riders racing for a cause. This expanded challenge brings a bold new dimension to the race.”

Dani Buyo, CEO-Founder of Gran Fondo World Tour®, encapsulates the spirit of international partnership:

“We feel at home when we land in the country and become part of the Amashova family during event days. It’s an honor to join South Africa’s oldest cycling event and experience the gran fondo spirit of this remarkable nation.”

Backed by uMngeni, Msunduzi, and eThekwini municipalities, the Amashova offers participants the unique thrill of riding with full road closures from Howick to Durban—uninterrupted through some of South Africa’s most scenic landscapes.

Bridging Past and Present

Finishing along Durban’s urban coastline and starting the 106 km race with historical resonance at Pietermaritzburg City Hall, the Amashova bridges past and present, uniting two major KwaZulu-Natal cities with every pedal stroke in an enduring celebration of sport and community along Comrades Marathon road.

To enter or find out more about this year’s race on 20^th July 2025, visit www.shova.co.za