The Mother City is in mourning following news that well-known physiotherapist, Najmee Marlie (44) passed away after successfully completing the Cape Town Cycle Tour.
“We express our most sincere condolences to the family of the rider who passed away. These occurrences greatly sadden the team at the Cape Town Cycle Tour as we work hard to try and keep everyone safe each year,” says Cape Town Cycle Tour spokesperson David Bellairs.
Each year more than 30 000 cyclists participate in the race spanning 109km, with a number being sent to hospital each year.
Marlie was a much-loved member of the Cape Town community and news of his passing has filled many with sadness. Tributes have been pouring in since his passing.
“It is with great sadness that we have to inform you of the passing of our clubmate and friend Najmee Marlie. May Allah, Most Forgiving and Most High, forgive him his shortcomings, illuminate and widen his qabr and grant him Jannatul Firdous, inshaAllah Ameen,” wrote Walmers Athletic Club, where Marlie was a member, on Facebook.
Roughly 13 people were sent to hospital and kept overnight following the tour this year with 35 being dispatched from various points along the route for medical attention.
Bellairs says the team at the Cape Town Cycle Tour takes safety very seriously and a number of measures are employed on race day to kept avid cyclists safe.
“Thirteen medic and refreshment stations are set up along the route and a comprehensive medical plan is in place including ambulances, a helicopter on stand by, doctors, nurses, first aiders and physiotherapists,” adds Bellairs.
The entire event is managed from the Tygerberg Call and Dispatch Centre where each case is dealt with accordingly and uniquely to offer the best care to each and every rider along the route.
“We partner with EMS and Mediclinic to ensure the safety of our riders and the condition of each patient is evaluated by a professional to provide the exact care they need as quickly as possible,” says Ballairs.
This year six people were sent for medical care after reaching the finish line. The cause of Marlie’s death has not yet been confirmed.
Cape Town Etc expresses our condolences to the family and friends of Najmee Marlie.
Picture: Facebook