Cape Town - There’s good news for spinning enthusiasts in Cape Town as a cooperative agreement between non-profit organisation Kaapstad 021 SPIN and the City’s Recreation and Parks Department will see a section of the Lentegeur Sports Ground being made available for practice purposes.
The agreement will allow for a portion of the sports ground to be used, with support from the Lentegeur Municipal Facility Management Committee.
It is the first agreement of its kind and will also act as a pilot to consider additional sites around the metropole, where members of the spin community have indicated high interest.
Spinning is a motorsport that involves driving cars at speed in circles.
Jonathan Schaffers, chairperson of SPIN (Supporting People In Need) in Mitchell’s Plain, expressed his excitement and said it was a long journey to get to this point, as the initiative was established to keep young people busy.
“We wanted to show the City of Cape Town that we can structure it and make it safe. We are excited, it has been a long journey and we are keen to make the best of it going forward.
“The sport is growing in our communities and we have youngsters who are not interested in netball or soccer but they’re interested in cars.”
Chris Hadji, representative from the Kaapstad 021 SPIN, added: “Spin is more than an informal motorsport. We are a registered non-profit company that supports people of all backgrounds with the proceeds we make from events, prizes at competitions or simply just through offering an alternative sport to the young and older people in our communities.”
Mayco member for community services and health, Patricia van der Ross, said they spent over two years finding an amicable way forward and are excited to have reached the milestone.
“We have searched the metro to find a suitable location to accommodate the group in a safe space, suitable for their needs and appropriate to community dynamics.
“It is important to note that spinning practice, unlike formal events, is not considered an event and does not require an event permit.
“However, any spinning events still require an event permit under restrictive safety conditions, in addition to meeting other compliance measures.”
Ward councillor Avron Plaatjies said: “It is my absolute pleasure to have played a role in this significant achievement, which underscores our commitment to promoting sport and recreation in our community. I have every confidence that this partnership will foster growth and development in the sport of spinning.
“I wish the spinners every success in their future endeavours. May they continue to grow this sport from strength to strength, showcasing their passion and skill while inspiring others to pursue their dreams.”