Sunday, May 11, 2008

VICTORIA IRONMAN TAKES 3RD PLACE IN WORLDS TOUGHEST BIKE RACE

Cape Town, South Africa


Amid the fanfare of a full brass band and cheering well wishers, the 2008 Tour D'afrique finished in style on Saturday at the trendy waterfront district of Cape Town. Leading the peloton were the top 3 men's race winners, including local businessman, Chris Wille, who cycled his way to Third place, overall.

"It's the worlds longest and toughest bike race. I am honored and grateful to have been able to ride/race the whole way. To take 3rd place, overall, against some very tough competitors was very sweet!" Chris said. "What an experience; over 3 hundred hours of racing, contested over 85 stages, more than 10,400 kilometers, nine countries, crossing the African continent, from top to bottom- simply an amazing, wonderful experience. Truly the opportunity of a lifetime!" He added. " It's the best placing by a Canadian in quite some time."

Neither the cold temperatures or drizzle could keep the huge smiles off the finishers faces.
It was a festive, colorful atmosphere at the waterfront amphitheater. "WE are very proud of all our race participants and expedition riders" said Tour d'afrique owner and founder, Henry Gold. "These guys gave it their all, day after day, under some very trying conditions, starting at the Great Pyramids in Cairo on January 12th."

Post race celebrations to follow, and perhaps a well deserved rest!

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