While I previously wrote about unscrupulous organizers ripping off riders during the pandemic, the latest example of why it is not a good idea to register for an event well in advance comes from South African organizer De Villiers National Cycling (DNC) – which just went belly up, bankrupt, insolvent and is now being liquidated days before some events were scheduled to take place.

For years DNC organized at least a dozen races annually, including Die Groot Trap – the the largest mass participation cycling event in Pretoria with over 2000 riders at the 2024 edition.

According to reporting from Middleburg Observer, thousands of cyclists already registered for DNC events will now forfeit their entry fees (and possibly hotel/travel fees) after the business unexpectedly entered liquidation due to legal claims and financial insolvency.

To make matters worse, as liquidation proceedings were imminent DNC encouraged cyclists to register for future events by offering huge discounts, up 50% off, ostensibly to raise much needed cash.

Many riders jumped at the opportunity, thinking they were getting a great deal.

Then De Villiers National Cycling sent out the following statement to registered riders:

Following the recent successful liquidation action brought against De Villiers National Cycling, all organisational processes relating to the Tour du Cap [March 2026] and Boland 100 Miler [October 2025] have been formally stopped.

As a direct consequence of the liquidation order, no further planning, coordination, or execution of these events will take place under the auspices of De Villiers National Cycling.

The matter now falls within the jurisdiction of the appointed liquidator, who will oversee all related assets, contracts, and financial implications in accordance with the applicable legal framework.

We recognise the historic importance of both events to the South African cycling calendar. However, until the liquidation process has run its course, no further commitments or assurances regarding the future of these events can be made.

Any enquiries regarding the liquidation proceedings must be directed to the office of the appointed liquidator. De Villiers National Cycling has no authority or involvement in the matter from this point forward.

De Villiers National Cycling events cancelled include: Netwerk24 Paarl Cycle Tour, Paarl Boxing Bay Track Challenge, Montecasino, Tour du Cap, Emperors Palace Classic, Boland Gravel Monster, Shesha Finals, Boland 100 Miler and Die Groot Trap.

Photo Credit: DNC

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