South African professional cyclist Daryl Impey, who cycles for the Orica-GreenEdge pro cycling team, was acknowledged for his achievements in the 100th edition of the Tour de France at a gala evening held at Montecasino on Thursday.

 

Impey's achievement was heralded by Sports and Recreation South Africa (SRSA) for being the first South African, and first African, ever to wear the yellow jersey during the grueling 3-week Tour.

 

Cycling SA President William Newman praised Impey, and the positive growth and momentum of cycling from the continent.

 

Minister of SRSA Fikile Mbalula said that it is time to acknowledge our true heroes of the country, those hard workers that shed blood, sweat and tears, and make our nation proud. 

 

Also at the function was the South African Proteas netball team, the baby Proteas U21 netball team, as well as the first black jockey to win the Durban July Handicap Mr Simanga Khumalo.