Dennis Hammar, who completed over 40 consecutive Cape Town Cycle Tours and was a beloved figure in the cycling community, tragically passed away after he was attacked and robbed while out on a ride.
The 76-year-old succumbed to his injuries after he was attacked when cycling from Paarden Eiland on the N1, joining FW de Klerk Boulevard on the Foreshore, with an unidentified male reported to have pushed him off his bike before stealing his cellphone.
He was taken to a nearby hospital, but was unable to recover from his injuries, which included multiple fractures.
Mass outcry after death of Dennis Hammar
Neil Robinson, the CEO of the Pedal Power Association, raised concerns about ongoing attacks on cyclists, particularly in crime hot spots.
“We are very saddened to hear of another death, it has been ongoing problem and there has been interventions from the SAPS and we are appealing to cyclists to avoid these areas.”
A local Cape community group also made a post on social media, highlight how heartbreaking this latest incident was.
“Cape Town, our beloved Mother City, is breaking our hearts again. Just weeks after a hiker’s life was shattered on Table Mountain, another tragedy has struck.
“Dennis completed over 40 consecutive Cape Town Cycle Tours, his love for this city shining through every pedal stroke. But that love was not returned. His wife, Sharon, now faces unimaginable grief, left with a painful truth: The city and country he loved so much have let us all down.
“This is what loss looks like:
“A cycling community silenced, their rides now haunted by the absence of a legend.
“A family torn apart, their memories of laughter replaced by endless sorrow.
“A widow, alone in the dawn’s quiet, clutching memories of her “darling husband,” asking why Cape Town turned so heartless.
“Our streets, once alive with runners, cyclists, and walkers, are now shadowed by fear. From Table Mountain to city bridges, spaces of freedom have become sites of violence.
“How many more must suffer before we act? How many more vigils, tributes, or posts before empty promises turn into real change?
“To our leaders: Words of condolence are not enough. We need action, stronger policing, better lighting, and accountability for criminals.”
Stay Wider of the Rider group supported a memorial ride for Hammar this past weekend, which was organised by Club100 Cycling Cape Town. “Dennis was a husband, father and grandfather and we are devastated by this incident which stems from ongoing attacks on cyclist,” the group shared on social media.
Councillor Ian McMahon from City of Cape Town addressed the cyclists about safety issues in Woodstock and the CBD during the memorial ride, and a letter with concerns were handed over by Craig Sedras on behalf of the club to the City and the PPA.
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THIS TRAGIC STORY?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
