We close such a successful cycling year on an extremely sad note as our nation mourns the loss of one of our greatest leaders ever, our late President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. What an icon he was for not only our country, but for the whole world. We express our deepest sympathy and condolences to his family and friends. May his soul rest in peace. We also remember our very own riders, officials and friends who have passed away this year. May their souls rest in peace.
On the sporting front, Cycling South Africa has enjoyed great successes with magnificent performances from our riders who have brought lots of honour and glory to our nation. We sincerely thank them for all the hard work they have put in to achieve these great results. We will continue to provide support to enable them to do even better in the years to come.
Again, along with the successes have come many challenges, but we as a Management team are putting measures in place to address these. The future for South African cycling is exceptionally bright and we have to continue working hard to ensure that we can continue to support our riders, as well as provide the world-class service expected from us.
Our success is heavily dependent on having great partners, and here I would like to thank the National Lotteries Board, SASCOC (South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee) and SRSA (Sports and Recreation South Africa) and Provincial and Local Government departments for their continued support of our sport.
To all my Executive members, Management Committee members and all Provincial, Regional and Club administrators I would like to extend a special word of thanks for all the effort in administering the sport we love so much. I also thank our office staff for the sterling work done this year. Week in and week out we have great events, all made possible by very committed event organisers, sponsors and officials. I thank you all for your efforts. There is always room for improvement, and I know you are all up for the challenge.
2014 promises to be yet another exciting year for our sport with African Youth Games, Commonwealth Games and Youth Olympics being amongst the highlights on the international calendar.
Now is the time for us all to relax and spend some time with our loved ones and come back refreshed in the New Year. I wish you all a very happy and safe festive season. If you are driving, do so with care. Also be extra cautious out there while riding your bicycles.
Happy cycling!
William Newman
President: Cycling South Africa
