Higgins coordinates the physiotherapy team at the Cape Town Cycle Tour finish precinct and ensures that many (physio) hands make light work of the cramps and strains that might affect riders out on the route.

“In total, there are more than 300 physios involved at Cycle Tour – made up of students and qualified physios,” says Higgins, who has been working with Cycle Tour since she was a student herself. “My main role these days is to arrange everything on the day, and to liaise with the team from Mediclinic, the drivers of the sweep vehicles, the race office at the Venue of Control (VOC), and so on.”

There are nine physio stations on the Cycle Tour route, starting at Simon’s Town. [You’re not meant to cramp before then. – Ed.] Although everything is finalised and set up before the Cycle Tour starts, Higgins still likes to do a ‘drive-through’ early on Sunday morning, to make sure every station is in place. 

Then the fun starts.

“The main issue we deal with is cramping – and that’s mostly from inexperienced cyclists.”

“The main issue we deal with is cramping – and that’s mostly from inexperienced cyclists. On really hot days, we’ll have more cramping; on really cold days, our main issue is hypothermia. We work very closely with the medical staff for any major issues that arise. 

“Of course, there are also those cyclists who think we’re there to give massages ‘for fun’ on the route, or sports massages at the finish. We just politely tell them that’s what their private physiotherapist is for!”

The build-up to Cycle Tour is a stressful time, but once the last rider is over the line and the physiotherapy station at the finish is closed, Higgins can reflect on all the hard work. “I get so stressed out in the lead-up to Cycle Tour; then by 5pm on race day, everyone is shattered…

But once it’s all over, it feels really special to have been part of such a great event. It’s a brilliant day, and it’s incredibly rewarding to play a part in it.” 

Take a glimpse into the nerve centre of the race and meet one of the photographers who captures all the action.

READ MORE ON: Cape Town Cycle Tour Physio