WindlineAbout the race
The Amashova National Classic is a road cycling race in KwaZulu-Natal that the organiser bills as the oldest road classic cycle race in South Africa. It is often shortened to "Shova" and sits alongside the province's other big winter-season events.
History
The organiser's site carries a dedicated history section, with past results, a winners' list and a "Green Numbers" page, which honours riders with long records of finishing the race. Check the organiser's history section for the founding year.
The course
The route runs through the hills between the midlands and the coast. Cut-off points named by the organiser give a feel for the line it follows: Inchanga Caravan Park, Botha's Hill Butchery, Shongweni Road near the M13 and the 45th Cutting beneath the N3 bridge. Separate pages describe the route profile, maps and the approach to the finish area, along with road closures on race day.
Distances
Three distances are offered: 106 km, 70 km and 40 km. Each has its own information page on the organiser's site, and there is a training-programme section for riders training for the event.
Cut-offs and entry
The organiser's published cut-off times for the race on Sunday 8 August 2027 are:
- Inchanga Caravan Park: 12:00
- Botha's Hill Butchery: 13:00
- Shongweni Road (near the M13): 14:00
- 45th Cutting (under the N3 bridge): 14:30
Entry is online, and the website shows a countdown to the 8 August 2027 start. There are further pages for final instructions, number collection, an FAQ and bicycle transport.
Where to watch
The cut-off locations above are natural places to see riders pass. The organiser also publishes "approach" guides for each distance and for the finish, plus a page of things to do along the route, which are worth reading before choosing a spot.
Weather
August is mid-winter in KwaZulu-Natal. Inland mornings can be cold and crisp, while the coastal end tends to be milder, and the season is generally dry. This is a general seasonal description, not a forecast, and riders usually dress in layers for the cooler start.