The Cape Town Cycle Race 2025
On March 9, 2025, the scenic beauty of Cape Town provided a stunning backdrop for the annual Cape Town Cycle Race, in which Cape Hearing Implants (CHi) participated as a charity. This is the largest cycle race in the world. The day began with clear skies, warm sun, and minimal wind—a picture-perfect setting for cycling enthusiasts to come together for a great cause. Participants from all walks of life united with smiles and a shared commitment to raise funds for cochlear implants for those in need.
For many, this race was a milestone. Some riders, including international participants from Italy, Austria, and Germany, conquered their first cycling event. Among them was local legend Mauritz van den Heever, who impressively completed his 21st cycle tour, demonstrating his unwavering passion for cycling and charitable causes.
Amid the event’s camaraderie was an unforgettable moment for Italian riders Tommaso Lomboni and his girlfriend, Giulia Talmonti, who got engaged at the breathtaking Chapman’s Peak. Witnessing love blossom in such a lovely environment added a unique touch to race day, showing that the event’s spirit extended beyond cycling to embody life’s milestones.
Christian Landig from Germany but now considered as a local faced his fears by participating in the 42 km event. Despite being apprehensive, he completed the race in a commendable hour and 42 minutes, marking his first cycling adventure in South Africa. He expressed his determination to return next year, for the 109km race showcasing how the event leaves a lasting impression on its participants.(https://www.gamecooling.com/gcshop/)
Marius Hurter, Springbok Rugby Legend from the 1995 SA World Cup winning team too, enjoyed a special day as he crossed the finish line alongside his three daughters, highlighting the family-oriented spirit integral to the race.
Cape Hearing Implants (CHi)
Cape Hearing Implants (CHi) is dedicated to helping those with hearing impairments by providing cochlear implants to those in need. Surgeons and friends of CHi, including Mauritz and Hester van den Heever, the Hurter family, Craig and Karin Bernardo, and Jaiden and family, participated in the event with the mission of raising funds to perform cochlear implantation surgeries. The custom shirts Thornton Fincham designed inspired the riders and raised awareness for the charity’s cause. Visit Cape Hearing Implants (CHi) at https://capehearingimplants.co.za/
MEDEL
Our gratitude also extends to MEDEL, a renowned organisation specialising in implantable hearing solutions. The UK and SA CEO Charles Dippenaar and MEDEL’s Italian CEO Romed Krösbacher and Digital Transformation and Engagement Manager, Tommaso Lomboni completed their first race while generously sponsoring two brand-new e-bikes for auction to fund cochlear implants. Their commitment to both the event and the cause exemplifies the collaborative spirit we cherish. More about MEDEL can be found at:(https://www.medel.com).
Rossignoli cycles, Italy
Additionally, we welcomed Matteo and Giovanna Rossignoli, the owners of Rossignoli Cycles from Milan, Italy. They completed their first tour in style and sponsored three brand-new racing cycles — one crafted from stainless steel and the others from carbon fibre — for auction. Their pledge to return next year showcases their commitment to this noble cause. Learn more about their exceptional products at:(http://www.rossignolicycles..it).
Akusia Onlus NPO, Italy
We would also like to acknowledge the remarkable contribution of Akusia Onlus NPO, based in Milan. Its CEO, Advocate Giuseppe Lomboni, completed his first tour, expressing gratitude for the day’s experiences and vowing to return next year. Akusia has been a dedicated sponsor for charities focusing on hearing loss and cochlear implantation in South Africa for several years, and we are incredibly grateful for this. More information about their work can be found at: Fondazione Akusia Onlus
Hearo NPC
Finally, we would like to thank another local South African non-profit, HEARO, for their continued support. HEARO will conduct the bicycle auction on our behalf, and we appreciate their unwavering commitment to our cause. Check out their website at: (https://www.hearo.co.za).
Let us do it again!
As the sun sets over an incredible day filled with laughter, joy, and shared goals, we want to wish everyone a fantastic year ahead. A big thank you to all participants, volunteers, and supporters—your contributions are invaluable. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year for another thrilling Cape Town Cycle Race, united by our mission to make a difference in the lives of those who need it the most.