David Bellairs has seen it all, from being one of the originators of the Old Mutual Wealth Double Century idea to being one of only eight riders to have finished 22 or more events. Besides his riding exploits, Bellairs also leads the organising committee that puts together the OMW DC every year, and ensures that every step is taken to ensure the safety and enjoyment of the riders who line up. 

“The success of the event has always depended on three factors: the route, the camaraderie and the challenge. Every year it’s an unforgettable experience with a group of like-minded individuals. Everyone goes through a tough patch, but it’s how the group pulls each other through that makes the event so special,” Bellairs says. “And it’s achievable for everyone, not just serious bike riders. But you need to put in the training.”

Bellairs and his organising team are always looking for ways to improve the event, having adjusted the neutral zones, the racing format and course over the years. 

“Most people are comfortable for 130 to 140km. No matter who you are, the last 70km is always hard.”

“Nothing is ever sacrosanct when you’re putting on an event like the DC. We’re always looking to grow, and always considering things like a two-day format, where the amateurs race one day and the racing teams on the second day,” Bellairs says. “At the moment the race is at full capacity, so we’re constantly looking for ways to include more teams safely.”

Race-Day Tactics

For Bellairs, training for the DC is critical. Putting in the kays makes things more manageable on race day.

“Most people are comfortable for 130 to 140km. No matter who you are, the last 70km is always hard,” he says. Bellairs leads the Wintergreen team each year: “I always quote the advice from legendary race commentator Paul Kaye, who says the key to DC success is to ‘go out slow, and finish slower!’”

Bellairs believes the way to a solid finish is to focus on your effort over the opening 60km, where climbs like Tradouw Pass and Op de Tradouw are tough assignments. But going too hard up those climbs can also hurt your legs early on. Stay conservative and start fuelling early, so you have enough in the tank for the long day ahead.

“I also always make sure that I eat and drink before I’m hungry or thirsty,” Bellairs says. “You burn a lot of calories early on; staying ahead of your energy needs is important.”

Team Tactics

“You need a team leader who is a strong rider, and who’s comfortable moving up and down the road to assess everyone.” 

“On the climbs, we tend to ride our own pace; but we regroup at the top and then work together on the flat sections, with the strong riders in front and the captain keeping an eye on anyone falling off the pace.”

Although many riders in Bellairs’ team are not averse to a little push from behind, for him it’s all about “riding EFI” (every *&^%–ing inch). “I appreciate that some people are okay with being pushed, but not me. I need to say that I rode the whole race unaided.”

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