ISSUE #11 October 2017
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TEAM GONDWANA RIDING TO SAVE THE RHINO
Photo: Gondwana Conservation Foundation Anti-Poaching Unit -- Photo Credit: GCF Photographer, Raquel de Castro Maia
The Gondwana team will be riding the Cape Pioneer Trek, presented by Biogen, to raise funds to continue the fight against rhino poaching in South Africa. The 7-day race from 15 -21 October 2017 stretches a grueling 572km in distance with an overall ascent of 10,650 meters in and around the Garden Route near Mossel Bay, and they aim to raise R1 000 per kilometer or R572 000 for the Gondwana Conservation Foundation (GCF). The first stage of the race will be traversing through Gondwana Game Reserve and has been named #GondwanaGlory by the organizers.
Devon Naude and Tristan Sandwith from Table Mountain Bikers Club in Cape Town will be slogging it out for 7 days. Devon Naude manages a regional IT infrastructure company in Cape Town, he is a passionate outdoorsman and adventure seeker who has a soft spot for a challenging stage race. This will be his second Cape Pioneer Trek racing for the GCF, a cause close to his heart. Tristan Sandwith is a town planner by profession, but is much more than just a weekend warrior.
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NEWS
Team Gondwana Riding To Save The Rhino (Continue from Page 1)
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September 2017
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RIDE FOR THE UNIVERSITY OF YOUR CHOICE
Photo: Francois Pienaar is looking forward to the second edition of the Varsity MTB Challenge to be held in Paarl - Photo Credit: Robert Ward
Providing an opportunity for old varsity friends to renew their rivalry, while also creating a platform for current students to compete, are the driving forces behind next month’s Varsity MTB Challenge.
tainment Media (Asem) chief executive Francois Pienaar said the race created a space for alumni to relive their varsity camaraderie in a great environment.
Nederburg Wines will host the second edition of the two-day mountain bike race which starts at the estate in Paarl from 30 September to 1 October 2017. The Varsity MTB Challenge is open to the public as the organisers strive to offer a “race for everyone.”
“Mountain biking is one of the fastest growing sports in the world,” said the former Springbok captain and 1995 World Cup winner. “Some may even argue it’s the new golf. There is no other mountain bike race in South Africa that speaks directly to the alumni market, while also giving current students and the public a chance to race for their university.”
Stemming from the successful Varsity Sports concept, Advent Sport and Enter-
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2017 LAND ROVER RANGE START YOUR ADVENTURE WITH LAND ROVER N1 CITY Test-drive any Land Rover vehicle and stand a chance to win an entry to the Cape Duo Challenge, worth R10 000. Scan the QR code to visit competition page. Only available from Land Rover N1 City. Visit our website for more details. Land Rover N1 City C/O of Vasco Blvd & Frans Conradie drive, N1 Motor City 021 595 7100 n1city.landrover.co.za
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Tristan lives for his bicycles - roadie or mountain and is often seen catching the sunrise on his morning peddle. He is passionate about the environment and ensuring that there is something left for his future children and grandchildren to enjoy. This is Tristan’s first Cape Pioneer Trek. The poaching of Rhino in Southern Africa, and in South Africa in particular, has been increasing exponentially over the past five years. In 2013 more rhino were killed than born. To combat this increase in poaching incidents, the Gondwana Conservation Foundation launched the Rainbow Rhino Initiative. Gondwana feels this epic mountain bike race is a fantastic platform to raise awareness for the GCF’s Rainbow Rhino Initiative, which has 3 tactical approaches to contribute to this epidemic. The foundation has established a counter poaching training camp which sponsors courses focusing on tracking, crime scene investigation and drone surveillance. The initiative is developing a core breeding population of rhino from which a custodianship program can be launched, distributing new founder populations of rhino throughout Africa together with trained anti-poaching units. The GCF is partnering with technology companies to create interactive awareness of rhino relocations through the latest GPS and drone technology allowing international communities to follow real time movement and imagery of individual rhino. The foundation has also played an integral role facilitating all key anti-poaching role players in the region including SAPS, Cape Nature, State Vets, Game Rangers Association of Africa, and the private sector to coordinate rhino poaching crime scene roles and responsibilities. The cyclists goal is to raise R1,000 per Km or R572,000 for the Rainbow Rhino Initiative. Last year funds raised through the Cape Pioneer Trek helped to complete the anti-poaching training facility on the 11,000 hectare, Big 5 reserve as well as purchase a rhino cow and calf to add to the core breeding population. The funds raised this year would go to securing vital training equipment, including night vision glasses, safety equipment, lecturing equipment as well as subsidizing multiple training courses over the next 12 months. The initiative ran its first training course in February 2017 at Camp Charleston, the foundation’s new onsite training facility. The first course trained eight local general workers in the field of counter insurgency. The second course in March/April 2017 provided eight individuals with the necessary qualifications and skills to be legal and competent security rangers in protected areas and game reserves. “Our team will be riding in style this year with a very generous kit sponsorship from Ciovita. Inspired by the cycling passion of Italy. Ciovita design and manufacture high quality performance cycling clothing. With full in house production at their state of the art facilities their kit is rigorously tested and constantly improved to ensure that you are always inspired to ride.” Help fight Rhino poaching - In under a decade, 7 134 rhino have been killed in South Africa alone. Rhinos in the wild will be extinct by 2020 if the levels of poaching continue, experts have warned. Donate towards the Rainbow Rhino Initiative and help to make headway against the increasing poaching epidemic to protect our threatened rhino across Africa. All donations of R1000 or more will be entered to win a luxury safari weekend for 2 at Gondwana Game Reserve inclusive of all meals and game drives worth over R16,000. For more information visit www.gondwanacf.org/3472-2/
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NEWS
Peter Sagan Makes History At Road World Champs Peter Sagan has soared into cycling’s history books on 24 September 2017 as the 27-year-old Slovakian became the first rider ever to secure three consecutive victories in the Elite Men’s World Championships Road Race. Despite a recent bout of illness, Sagan captured his third UCI World Championships gold medal in a row by narrowly outsprinting Alexander Kristoff (Norway) in Bergen’s Festplassen street. The duo outdistanced Australia’s Michael Matthews, who took the bronze, by several bike lengths. The Slovakian had flown well under the radar prior to the final bunch sprint of 26 riders that decided the 267.5 kilometre 2017 Elite Men’s road race. But when it counted and Kristoff charged away, Sagan quickly powered round him, finally beating the Norwegian by around a quarter of a wheel. Sagan has thus become the fifth rider in history, together with Alfredo Binda, Rik Van Steenbergen, Eddy Merckx and Oscar Freire, to equal the jointly held record of three men’s World Championships road titles. But Sagan is the first to do so on three successive years. “I want to dedicate this to [the late] Michele Scarponi” - the former Giro d’Italia winner who died in a training accident this April - “because he would have had a birthday tomorrow. It was a very sad story this year,” Sagan said afterwards. “Secondly I want to dedicate this victory to my wife, we are expecting a baby. It’s a very nice end of the season, and I’m very happy.” As for his making cycling history, Sagan commented, “It’s something special for sure. It doesn’t change anything, but for me it’s something very nice.” Sagan pointed out that although the race had come down to a bunch sprint, his third win had been anything but straightforward. As close as five kilometres from the finish, in fact, Sagan still thought that the
Photo Credit: SWPix
race would be won by a breakaway group. In the end, it came to a sprint and it was unbelievable. “It’s very hard to say [how it came to a sprint], you saw in the [final] climb we [the peloton] were already in three pieces or more. There was a breakaway, and afterwards in just a few seconds, it all came together in the finish. You couldn’t predict it.” Sagan concluded. The South African national riders, Reinardt Janse van Rensburg was placed 39th with Daryl Impey in 41st position.
2018 Cape Town Cycle Tour #40Take2 #Back2ourRoutes “The City effectively enticed us back to our ‘routes’ - in 1978, 525 cyclists set off from the roads outside the castle on the first ever Cycle Tour (then called The Argus Tour),” says David Bellairs, a Director of the Cape Town Cycle Tour Trust. Bellairs continues, “The Grand Parade Start Precinct will broaden the scope for expansion and improving the overall Cycle Tour experience for participants. A more consolidated precinct will enable us to create a more welcoming environment at the start with the possible inclusion of a breakfast hospitality zone and a more expansive offering of services.” “The move will also free up the central MyCiti bus station located at the Civic Centre. We are very grateful for the upgrades and rejuvenation that the City of Cape Town has already undertaken, and has planned for the Grand Parade Precinct.” “While the start of the race changes in 2018, we look forward to welcoming organisers and cyclists to an exciting event. Our support of the Cape Town Cycle Tour forms part of our strategy to attract even more events to the city.” “We hope our visitors and resident cyclists enjoy the race and natural beauty of the Cape. The City of Cape Town remains committed to doing all we can to promote cycling and to ensure a safe environment for cyclists our roads,” said City of Cape Town Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security; and Social Services, Alderman JP Smith. Photo Credit: Karin Schermbrucker/Slingshot Media
The start for the 2018 Cape Town Cycle Tour will move from its traditional position on Hertzog Boulevard to the historic Grand Parade Precinct. The Cape Town Cycle Tour is an iconic event – and the Grand Parade, overlooked by City Hall with the backdrop of Table Mountain, is a globally iconic event venue.
On Sunday, 11 March 2018, riders will gather on the historic Grand Parade and line up in Castle Street alongside the Castle of Good Hope and will follow the usual route around the Peninsula to the finish. Changes are also in the pipeline for the race village at Green Point, which will see a substantial new offering to both corporate and general entrants.
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NEWS
Western Cape Provincial Sports Awards On 16 September 2017, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) hosted the Provincial Sport Awards at Century City Conference Centre. The evening celebrated the sporting achievements of athletes who had won at the regional sport awards, which took place in July this year. These regional winners all became nominees for the Provincial awards, and saw the crowning of the Provincial winner in each category. Head of Department Brent Walters opened the evening and congratulated all the nominees. He also emphasized the importance of recognising sporting achievements and establishing role models in sport for youth. “Sport ensures that young people are actively and positively engaged. Tonight we acknowledge those who have reached a pinnacle in their sport and their stories of self-belief and perseverance must be told. Each nominee has a story of hope, character, opportunity, aspiration and inspiration,” he said. Anroux Marais, Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, expressed her pride in all the nominees. “The Western Cape’s sport stars have done us proud by holding our name high at national and international events.”
Eden Cycling received an award for the Federation of the year. “We are not a big Federation, but we have people with big hearts and a passion for their sport. It was hard work, but I must emphasize that it was a team effort by people working behind the scenes,” said Corné Bence, president of Eden Cycling.
“Thank you for making the conscious decision to participate, put in the hours of training and competing at various levels.” she said. Winners were announced in the 24 different categories.
Anzel Laubscher (Western Province Chess) took the title of Sportswoman of the Year and Seabelo Senatla (Western Province Rugby) being crowned Sportsman of the Year.
2018 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup
Team Meerendal CBC won overall
Series to host first leg in Stellenbosch
Women’s Race at Swiss Epic
Rising South African cross country star Alan Hatherly and World Champion Nino Schurter believe that the hosting of the first leg of the 2018 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup Series presented by Shimano in Stellenbosch next March will leave a legacy in the Western Cape for years to come. Hatherly, who brought home a superb silver medal in the under-23 UCI World Championships in Cairns recently, the first South African to win a medal at the championships since the late Burry Stander won gold in the under-23 category in 2009. With the World Cup on 10 March and the Absa Cape Epic from 18-25 March, the Western Cape will have the eyes of the cycling world firmly focused on the region. Swiss superstar Schurter capped off a dominant international season in Cairns, when he powered away from 2012 Olympic and two-time Cape Epic champion Jaroslav Kulhavy on the final lap to win his sixth World Championship, a record. Schurter, who won Olympic gold in Rio in 2016, won all six of this year’s races in the UCI World Series after beginning his season with victory in the Absa Cape Epic with Scott-Sram teammate Matthias Stirnemann. The UCI World Cup presented by Shimano is being staged by the organisers of the Absa Cape Epic on the Coetzenburg course used by the University of Stellenbosch, and will consist of four events, namely the men’s and women’s elite and under-23 categories. The course will be adapted to lift it to World Cup standard. “It has been 20 years since Stellenbosch last hosted a World Cup,” said Glyn Bromberg, the race director. “There is a real desire in the Western Cape for international cycling, and to be able to put on an event of this magnitude is special for us. It would not have been possible without the support of our sponsors and suppliers, Absa, Mediclinic, Protea Hotels, Woolworths, AB In-Bev, Virgin Active, University of Stellenbosch, WESGRO and the Western Cape Government.”
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Perskindol Swiss Epic, the most important stage race in Europe and one of most beautiful in the world, is over for another year. The final stage of the six-day mountain bike stage race was a circular trail in Zermatt, with 45 kilometres and 1900 metres of climbing. Daniel Geismayr from Austria and Jochen Käss from Germany, representing the Centurion Vaude team finished first for a well-deserved and possibly even overdue victory at the fourth attempt. Team Meerendal CBC with Esther Süss from Switzerland and Jennie Stenerhag from Sweden won the overall women’s race with Team Spur – Wallonie’s Ariane Lüthi and Alice Pirard winning the final stage and placed in second overall. With a total of 12,000m of ascent, a large part of the race was obviously decided in the many long uphill stretches. In return, the riders were rewarded daily with numerous downhill runs: countless long, gorgeous single trails gave them the chance to experience flow at its very best.
Photo Credit: Swiss Epic
And then of course, there was the unparalleled scenery of the Swiss Alps. Each individual stage provided plenty of breathtaking panoramic views of the Swiss Alps – and participants had an entire week to feast their eyes on the landscape. A special aspect of this fourth edition was the atmosphere among the athletes. The international mountain biking community, made up of participants from 30 countries and five continents, formed a tight-knit group, in which fairness, cooperation and friendship were given highest priority. In short: Perskindol Swiss Epic is not just about winning; it is mainly about experiencing a fantastic mountain biking adventure as part of a team. In 2018 the Perskindol Swiss Epic will become part of the global portfolio of Ironman and offer athletes to qualify for the most prestigious mountain bike race in the world. Through the acquisition, the 2018 Perskindol Swiss Epic will become the second global qualifier for the Absa Cape Epic.
PROPERTY
Come enjoy a taste of the Overberg hospitality at Romansbaai Beach and Fynbos Estate
Come enjoy a taste of the Overberg hospitality at Romansbaai Beach and Fynbos Estate Your search is over, as we present you with the property jewel of the Overberg and her best kept secret: Romansbaai Beach and Fynbos Estate. We’ve all considered owning a home by the sea for sublime weekend escapes and long lazy December holidays, or possibly contemplated a slower country lifestyle to retire to. Set on the Danger Point Peninsula, the views are unobstructed, endless and breathtaking and the Estate offers extraordinarily large erf sizes. Hidden at the foot of this peninsula is a pristine north-facing beach which is exclusive and protected from the wind in summer. All this is situated on a 220-hectare estate with 24-hour access control. The location of Romansbaai Beach and Fynbos Estate is perfect for a weekend breakaway as it is close enough to Cape Town to leave after work on Friday afternoon. The two-hour drive, with choices of routes through the rolling farms of Caledon and Stanford, or Hermanus, or take an awe-inspiring drive along the coast, will have you relaxing before you’ve even reached your destination. The Western Cape is experiencing unprecedented growth, and popular areas such as Hermanus, Hemel & Aarde Valley and Vermont are bursting at the seams as the Overberg enjoys newly discovered interest from those seeking the genteel offerings of small towns of the Cape. Services Lifestyle - Families seeking a change in lifestyle will be pleasantly surprised to find superb primary and high schools in the area as well as school buses to Hermanus. The popular Curro Hermanus also offers its scholars a bus service from Gansbaai. Security - Safety too is paramount to us, and Romansbaai offers what no other estate can: views without walls. ClearVu fences run along the perimeter into the sea. The gate house, with power supplied by our own wind turbine, has 24-hour security and high-tech fingerprint technology for resident’s entry.
And the fun doesn’t stop there. Head out for a drive along spectacular scenery of Protea varieties and settle in for an afternoon of wine tasting at Lomond Wine Estate in Elim, where you can sit back and enjoy a tasting of their award winning wines while you delight in local cheese and charcuterie at their stylish tasting room. Indulge in wholesome and hearty food and hospitality when visiting one of the many monthly farmers markets and immerse yourself in the very popular arts and craft route and rub shoulders with well-known writers, poets and artists. Mountain bike and trail running tracks between ocean and Fynbos are plentiful in this region, and with events such as the Funky Fynbos Festival in September, there is always something for the whole family. Select to play a round of golf at the Gansbaai Golf Club, the southernmost golf course in Africa, or, visit the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary, both which are adjacent to Romansbaai Beach and Fynbos Estate.
Style - The architectural style of the Estate recognises the history of Danger Point Peninsula as a remote and wild place, and will result in the development of a truly appropriate architectural language unique to this very special section of coastline. The homes will not call attention to themselves but will let the Fynbos and natural features of the site prevail. Activities The Overberg region offers a host of activities both for those seeking a quiet breakaway from the city rush and for those seeking an adrenaline rush. One can choose from shark cage diving, boating between the majestic Southern Right Whales during winter, or hiking through one of the Cape Floral regions world heritage sites, where 70% of the plants are endemic to this region.
Visit our On-Site office There are too many wonderful things to write about, so why don’t you pop into our offices, on-site at Oystercatcher Road, Romansbaai Beach and Fynbos Estate, and come enjoy a taste of the Overberg hospitality for yourself. We’re able to assist you in the design of your home to suit your budget and we’ll put you in touch with a selection of contractors and service providers and, before you know it, you’ll be finding any reason to lose yourself in the sights, smells and sounds of nature in Romansbaai Beach and Fynbos Estate.
For more information visit www.cjwproperty.co.za or contact +27 (0) 72 610 1416 or Email: claudine@cjwproperty.co.za
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MTB
CAPE EPIC - NEW ROUTE SHOWCASE THE WONDERS OF THE CAPE From the majestic slopes of Table Mountain to the magnificence of the Grand Finale at Val de Vie Estate with a manic time trial in between – the 2018 Absa Cape Epic route has been created to be balanced and bold. The total distance of 658km with 13 530m of climbing will include four consecutive days of 100km, a final stage that is far from an easy roll to the line and a race of truth with a Stage 5 time trial that could shake up the race amongst the elites. “The last Absa Cape Epic to feature a time trial was in 2010,” said Race Director Kati Csak of the 39km (1430m of climbing) time trial in Wellington, the majority of which will be on the Welvanpas trails.” “We’ve reintroduced it this year to change things up and also to give the leading racers an opportunity to attack their rivals. If a team had managed to secure a decent lead by this stage they would normally simply mark their rivals’ attacks, but you can’t do that on a time trial.” From the Prologue on the iconic Table Mountain, where the Prologue was last held in 2015, the 2018 Absa Cape Epic will visit Robertson, Worcester and Wellington, and finish at the Val de Vie Estate in the Paarl-Franschoek Valley. Riders will spend three nights in Robertson for the first three stages, with a transition stage to Worcester, where they will stay for one night before settling down in Wellington until heading to Val de Vie, which will be the home for the Grand Finale for the next five years.
WHY CAPE PIONEER TREK IS A BUCKET-LIST EVENT
The Momentum Health Cape Pioneer Trek presented by Biogen from 15-21 October 2017, is an incredible South African mountain biking experience, definitely worth putting on a cyclists’ bucket-list. The race offers riders the chance to explore the diverse scenery of the Southern Cape and experience the famous Klein Karoo hospitality, while participating in a sport they love. Founded in 2009, the event caters for single and team riders, and while the routes have changed significantly over the years, the camaraderie that makes it the race with soul has remained. Despite its
The Absa Cape Epic will pay homage to a South African mountain biking legend in 2018 when the first all-African team home in the Women’s category will be presented with the Hannele Steyn Trophy at the Grand Finale at Val de Vie. The trophy is the latest initiative to raise the profile of women’s cycling at the Untamed African Mountain Bike Race. The Absa Cape Epic has had many firsts, paying women the same prize money as the men, creating a separate start group for the elites and attaining UCI points for the category. These moves have resulted in an increase in the quality of racing in the women’s elite category, with the race attracting the world’s best marathon and cross country athletes. The trophy for the top all-African team overall is a fitting tribute to Steyn, who won the Women’s category in the second Cape Epic in 2005 riding with South African Zoe Frost. Not only has Steyn won the Women’s category, she is also one of just four riders to have finished all 14 Cape Epics thus far. She is the only women in this elite group of Last Lions, which includes Craig Beech, John Gale and Mike Nixon. Steyn’s endurance and love for the Cape Epic persuaded the race organisers to name the new trophy in her honour. Pretoria artist Kgaogelo Mashilo’s design includes the Adinkra symbol of the Wawa Aba, the seed from wawa tree from West Africa. The Burry Stander Memorial Trophy is presented to the top all-African men’s team and has become a highly-competitive race within a race, with many of the South African teams targeting it specifically each year. The Hannele Steyn Trophy is set to become a category that will be hotly contested.
KALEO MTB KLASSIK Photo Credit: www.oakpics.com
Union Cycliste Internationale status, which ensures significant prize money and world-ranking points for the elite riders, the atmosphere is very relaxed in the race village. Riders taking part in their first week-long stage race rub shoulders in the dinner queue with the who’s who of South African mountain biking, like Erik Kleinhans and Robyn de Groot. The route for the 2017 Momentum Health Cape Pioneer Trek presented by Biogen follows a similar trend to the 2016 route, which introduced the concept of journey and exploration days. In the first seven events, each stage was a point-to-point journey which allowed for limited opportunity to explore the countryside. The race will spend at least two nights in each race village, allowing for an outand-back stage that explores the best mountain biking on offer around that town. The 2017 venues are Mossel Bay, George and Oudtshoorn, which requires just two journey stages to transport riders from Mossel Bay to George and then on again from George to Oudtshoorn. Limiting the journey stages also makes the event easier on the riders as there’s no need to find new tents daily, reacquaint oneself with the layout of the race village, or stress about packing gear every morning. Also, the exploration stages can now take in more amazing singletrack, with the most eagerly anticipated sections surely being the Saasveld trails, which the riders will flow through on Stage Four. Stage Four is also the first mid-race time trial in South African mountain biking since the 2011 Absa Cape Epic. For the elite riders the time trial will surely provide a general classification shake-up while for the less competitive riders the stage will provide a welcome opportunity to have fun in the flowing singletracks on a short stage. Returning to the Momentum Health Cape Pioneer Trek, after a year’s absence is the only mountain top finish in international mountain biking. The Swartberg Pass has become synonymous with the race over the years and the eight-and-a-half kilometre long climb is certainly one of the most iconic in the country. For 2017 the summit finish will once again feature a King and Queen of the Mountain hot-spot prize for the first men’s and first women’s teams over the line. Off-the-bike riders are also treated like kings and queens at the Momentum Health Cape Pioneer Trek. The top-class catering ensures that everyone’s energy levels are kept topped up, while the chill zones provide the perfect place to relax and swap war stories from the trails each afternoon.
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Absa Cape Epic raises the profile of women’s cycling once again
Situated in the picturesque Koue Bokkeveld, high above the Ceres Valley, Kaleo Guest Farm is approximately 2 hours drive from Cape Town. This elegant country estate with both accommodation and function facilities is set well away from the hustle and bustle of humanity - an ideal place to get away from it all to enjoy the slow pace of country living. 28 October 2017 will see the annual Kaleo MTB Klassik, a CSA sanctioned event filled with challenging off road cycle for those wishing to challenge themselves and also offer a fun filled family friendly market day. Kaleo MTB Klassik will provide entertainment for the kids including jump castle, soft play, photo boards, pony rides, and horse rides. The route forms part of the internationally acclaimed Tankwa Trek race with a choice of 22 km, 40km and 60km distances on offer. The 22km featuring mostly single track with 1 technical climb and descent - crossing 2 A frames on the way with a elevation of about 328m, with no waterpoint stop. The 40km route is a fair test for the average rider - following the same route as the 22 km before splitting of at the 15km mark. There is a climb and descent before the waterpoint at the 26km mark - up “ B se bult “ into 8 km of single track to the finish-line. (Elevation 917m) The 60km route is for experience riders - following the same route as the 40km splitting off at the 30km mark, where riders go into areas where humans seldom wander with its beautiful rock formations. After the 2nd waterpoint at 40km descending to “Heartbreak Hill “ - a new single-track section with fantastic views, before reaching the “Brown Monster“ at 47km with an amazing rock garden descent up “Lock se trek“ and into 12 km single track to the finish. (Elevation 1407m) For the runner enthusiasts, there will be a 5km, 10 and 15km challenging trail run as well as a action packed 4 x 4 event. For more information visit www.kaleomanor.co.za
ROAD
WINTER RIDING INSPIRATION IN THE SHAPE OF THE CAPE CLASSIC three days of riding. Stage two is the shortest day at 108km long and takes in many roads that Coronation Double Century riders will be familiar with. The river roads along the sluggish Breede River are lined with flowers, while vigorous spring growth abounds in the vineyards, thereafter the Boesmanspad follows the valleys in the foothills of the Langeberg Mountains before riders return to Montagu via the Cogmanskloof Pass. The third and final stage traverses the Breede River Winelands and the scenic Slanghoek Valley on its way from Montagu to Ceres. The stage has seen tail winds push the peloton along in both previous editions and with the prevailing spring wind blowing steadfastly from the South East riders can once again hope for an easy final day. Though the 380km total distance across the three days may be quite daunting, the Cape Classic is by no means a difficult event to complete. The riding is social, with ride captains setting the pace for the peloton and helping riders who drop off to get back into the group. Photo Credit: Nick Muzik Photography
The 2017 Cape Classic 380 3-three day road tour which takes place from the 27 - 29 October, will provide some much needed inspiration to keep the pedals turning and the wheels rolling through the final weeks of winter. The Cape Classic, now in its third year, is based in the historic hamlet of Montagu; from where road riding options abound. The first stage is a 139km long, out and back route, from the Montagu Country Hotel into the Koo Valley. The stage takes in the imposing, but beautiful Burgers and Rooihoogte passes, but on fresh legs, with ride captains setting the pace, the passes are sure to be among highlights of the
There are daily sprint and king of the mountain hotspots though, where riders can challenge themselves and their competitive fellows for bragging rights and prizes at the conclusion of the event. The water points and daily lunch stops are set up near the hot spots to allow everyone to regroup before setting off once again as a peloton. In addition to the road captains and dedicated medical team road safety is maintained throughout by the Think Bike marshals. They ensure that riders can concentrate on enjoying the experience rather than worrying about motorised traffic. For more information visit www.capeclassic.info
AN HISTORIC FIRST - GIRO D’ITALIA 2018 TO START IN ISRAEL In May 2018, the world-famous Giro d’Italia, a major event in the global sporting calendar, will begin in Jerusalem. This will be the first time in history that a GrandTour (cycling’s three major races) has taken place outside of Europe, and will be the most prestigious sporting event ever held in Israel. The 2018 Giro will carry with it a message of peace, coexistence and the power of sport to bring people together. Commencing on May 4, this prestigious event will see 176 of the world’s top cyclists begin the competition against the backdrop of Jerusalem’s Old City. Over the following two days, the competitors will ride from the North of Israel to the tip of the Red Sea, taking in breathtaking views from start to finish. The Giro will finish three weeks later on 22 May in Italy. As a result, the 2018 Giro will carry a strong message of peace and coexistence, with its journey representing the ability of sport to build bridges between people, religions and nations. The Giro d’Italia, which takes place annually in Italy over 21 stages during a threeweek period, is watched by hundreds of millions of viewers in 194 countries. Next year’s race will be the 101st edition of the Giro. Since 2006, the Giro has commenced every other year with a high-profile ‘Big Start’ outside Italy. Previous ‘Big Starts’ have brought the excitement of the Giro to Holland, Denmark, Northern Ireland and Belgium. Next year’s ‘Big Start’ in Israel will be the first time the Giro, the Tour de France or the Vuelta a Espana has been held outside Europe. The ‘Big Start’ route will be comprised of three days. Day One will see riders begin the race against the backdrop of Jerusalem’s iconic Old City on a 10.1km time-trial tour of the city. Day Two begins at the scenic Baha’i Gardens in Haifa, then passing through historic Acre and Caesarea, before riders head to the finish line on Tel Aviv’s beachside promenade, totalling 167km. Day Three begins in Beer Sheva and takes in southern Israel’s most dramatic scenery including the breathtaking Ramon Crater, finishing at the Red Sea resort of Eilat, totalling 226km.
In addition to the competitors, officials and world media, tens of thousands of tourists and cycling enthusiasts are expected to arrive in Israel to experience the Giro d’Italia’s festive atmosphere. The race will be a major boost for cycling’s growing popularity in Israel – The country’s only professional team, the Israel Cycling Academy, founded in 2014 currently competes on the UCI Continental circuit. The aim of the campaign is to attract as many tourists as possible during the course of the Giro and, to promote Israel as an attractive tourism destination for viewers around the world. “It is very good for the world of cycling to start the Giro out of Europe. I was here in 2012 and saw the country. I am sure that it will be great and a very good opportunity for the people of Israel and the world to see this incredible event. It is an incredible race... I always had a smile on my face!” says Alberto Contador.
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The Vindex Jacket employs magnetic fasteners so the sleeves can be removed in one simple motion, effortlessly converting from a full sleeve jacket into a gilet. This gives you complete control over your body temperature allowing you to change with the conditions while in the saddle. This lightweight jacket features our proprietary Vita-Tex Fabric that is both windproof and water repellent, while Lycra insets ensure the form hugging fit, still allows full range of motion. The Vindex is available in men’s and ladies’ styles.
Scan the QR code to watch a video showing the latest features or visit https://www.ciovita.com/products/vindex to find out more. Athlete: Matthew Daneel wearing the Vindex Jacket
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INSPIRED TO RIDE
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2017/05/26 10:44 AM
INTERNATIONAL
Team Private Client Holdings UCT - Riding the Tour of Maurice As a bunch of students most of whom have never raced out of the country before, heading to The Tour de Maurice was an incredible opportunity which could not be missed. The idea came from Matthew How, one of the team members and a Med Student at UCT from Mauritius. He found out more about the race and saw the potential in sending a Private Client Holdings UCT team to the Tour de Maurice. The Team consisted of Luke Evans, a 3rd year Business Science Student, Alexander Rohrer a BSc Student, Wayde Finch a 4th Year Mechanical engineering student, Gregg Christy who is doing a Post Graduate Diploma in Accounting and Martin Freyer, a 3rd year Physio student. Liam Swanson, a 4th Year Mechanical Engineering was the Team manager, whilst Matthew How, 5th Year Medicine, represented his local club in the race. “We are all students that fill every spare moment we have with training and riding. For everyone but Martin, racing in a new country would be a new experience. Upon arriving in Mauritius we were immediately greeted with warm and humid weather. We had a hour bus drive across Mauritius to Villa Carolina, our hotel for the next 10 days. The island has a very different feeling to Cape Town, with the towns filled with a lively chaos that somehow seemed to just work,” says Alexander Rohrer. “From the bus trip to our hotel we got a chance to look at the roads and terrain for the first time. The roads are in fantastic condition and we could not wait to get out on our bikes and explore the country better. The people of Mauritius are all incredibly friendly and despite the language barrier we never once felt out of place.”
Photo Credits: Daphney Dupré/Tour de Maurice
in the incredible beauty of the island and the snaking road through the rain forest is something we will never forget.” “Sadly we were unable to do any sightseeing trips to different parts of the island, but we were lucky enough to be able to snorkel straight in front of our hotel and see all the ocean wildlife. Racing through most parts of the Island gave us brief glimpses of the beauty of Mauritius and the blue water was very inviting at multiple points in the race.” According to Alexander, the Mauritian type of racing bunch was a very different experience to races back home - with riders being very friendly, whilst at the same time a mutual respect for others. This was very different to racing in South Africa where often the racing is very aggressive and harsh with riders wanting to give as little information away to their competitors.” “For our team it was the first time racing in a major tour, and we really enjoyed the structure to the racing. The peloton was controlled by the strongest teams in the race, and luckily, due to our position overall and by leading the white jersey category, we were considered one of the strongest teams in the bunch.”
“The prologue climb was only 2.7km long, but the heat would be a major factor with temperatures reaching the mid 30’s on race day. The queen stage climbs were completely different beasts. We have never had the opportunity to race on long climbs - with a 12km and a 10km climb in one stage, we knew that the whole team would be venturing into uncharted territory. Riding a small part of the Queen Stage’s climbs before the race, did however provide us with a opportunity to take
“It will be hard to come back and not miss the incredible experience of racing in a new country - in a completely different style, but we hope that the lessons we learnt from racing in Mauritius will give us the ability to mix things up and try and win in different ways to before. We do intend on trying to do more tours back in South Africa and the surrounding countries as the lessons learned and memories made will last us a life time.” “A big thank you has to go to Private Client Holdings, PowerBar and UCT Sport who all contributed to making this trip a reality. Without their support UCT Cycling Club would have not even been able to dream going on a tour like this,” Alexander concludes.
National Team - Riding In A Foreign Country! Willie Smit of the RoadCover Cycling team continued his successful run of Tour wins at the recent Tour Meles Zenawi for Green Development in Ethiopia, extending his UCI Africa tour lead. Smit was joined by Brendon Davids, Clint Hendricks from the RoadCover Cycling team and Rohan Du Plooy from Team Giant. The four-man team raced the 5 stage tour with a small contingent of back up staff ,and against over 90 riders from all over Africa in the highlands of the East African country. In the words of the riders who put their efforts into making this national team race a success, their experiences of the tour, without a budget as the national team, against the odds, using their collective experience and will to make it a success. “We arrived at the Airport of Ethiopia packed with a survival kit for Africa (diarrhoea meds, some of our own food!), but no information on how to get to the
race hotel. We paid for our visas, found chairs in the airport and prepared ourselves to stay there for a very long time, as we did not have contact with an organiser of the tour.” says Rohan Du Plooy. “We landed at 20h00 and after almost 2hours of waiting, miraculously a staff member from the tour came looking for us and we arrived at the hotel just before midnight!” The experience of the culture, unknown factors that surrouned the ‘racing’ part of the tour, waiting for one-and-a-half hours before a 6-hour bumpy and leg cramping bus drive, confusion with the start time of the race as ‘real’ Ethiopian time is 6 hours ahead of normal world Ethiopian time.
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“It was a struggle to get space on the bus, bikes on top of one another and squeezing into seats, and Willie and Clint had to ride 20km to the start, because there was not enough space on the bus for everyone,” says Rohan. The first stage set the tone of the tour as Clint committed fully to the potential success for Willie. The team was struck with bad luck when Willie punctured and without the following vehicle nearby, Clint had to swop bikes with Willie and he went on to finish the stage in 3rd place! On the second stage, Willie managed to finish 3rd again, picking up a time bonus and taking the overall lead. The third and fourth day were mental days of pacing and controlling the race. Smit held the lead until the final stage, being a circuit race through the streets of Addis Ababa. The rain was coming down, with wind and freezing temperatures.
With 2km to go, Willie put in a big attack and rode away solo to win the stage! Against the odds, in a foreign country, not knowing their system, or having a group of back up staff, the small team banded together well. It took a big effort of precaution and prevention of getting sick. Eating a limited selection of food, making sure their hands always sanitised, got the team through the tour. While on Tour the team was supported by mechanic Morne Groenewald and Ethiopian manager Mulu Hailemariam with Team RoadCover and Team Giant back home. Willie Smit extends his lead in the 2017 UCI Africa tour after this event with 393 points, followed by Meron Abraham from Eritrea with 321 points and Ahmed Amine Galdoune from Morocco with 279 points.
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GENERAL
Reasons why cyclists ride in the middle of the left-hand lane The debate with regards to the rights of cyclists is never ending and there is often a general ‘outcry’ from drivers with regards to cyclists who ride in the middle of the road, which can make it difficult for vehicles to pass them. “Cyclists are exposed to many dangers and elements on the roads,” says CEO of the Pedal Power Association, Robert Vogel. “If they ride in from the edge of the road, it is simply done for safety reasons.” In 2013, the Western Cape Government passed a ‘one metre law’, which makes it compulsory for vehicles to pass cyclists with a minimum distance of one metre. The law also states that the driver of a motor vehicle on a public road may, where the roadway is not wide enough to comply with sub regulation (1) (b) or (c) when passing a cyclist, encroach on that part of the road to his or her right. This should be done only if: it can be done without obstructing or endangering other persons or vehicles; it is safe to do so; and it can be done and is done for a period and distance not longer than is necessary to pass the cyclist. Many drivers are, however, not aware of the fact that the law allows them to cross a solid white line under these circumstances, in order to safely pass a cyclist. There are many reasons why cyclists ride in the middle of the left-hand lane. One of the most common reasons is that the usable road width does not begin at the edge of the road, but only where the debris ends, which is a good 50cm plus in from the edge of the road. The road debris, gutter and usable road surface is something that drivers do not always realise because it does not affect the wider/thicker car tyres as much as it does a bicycle tyre. Bicycle tyres are narrow, thin, and sand, thorns, oil, glass (cuts) are hazardous to them. “Cycling in a section of the road that has been cleared of debris, makes sense from a cyclist’s perspective. There is often also a camber on the edge of the road surface to aid water flow away from the road surface. It is difficult to ride a bicycle on a camber, so cyclists try to ride on the road area which is flat.” Cyclists swerve in order to avoid debris on the road, or potholes, sand, oil and the like. “Cyclists often sees such problems only at the last moment, causing them to swerve unexpectedly,” Vogel explains. “Motorists often do not anticipate such sudden movements from cyclists, which is even more reason why they need to give all cyclists a wide berth.” Most vehicles are in excess of 2 metres wide, including the side mirrors. A bicycle, on the other hand, is only around 80-90 cm wide and often motorists try to ‘squeeze past’ a cyclist within the lane. When cyclists however, move a little further into a lane, motorists seem to notice cyclists better, but have to cross the median line in order to overtake the cyclists. “On my road bike I measure close to 65 cm, elbow to elbow and I’ll be riding about 30 cm from the edge of the road.”
“The average road lane is 300-320 cm wide. If a sedan wants to pass me safely, the driver has to allow 100 cm from my elbow when passing as I am taking up 195 cm of roadway, at the point of passing which means that there is 125 cm left in the lane in which a 200 cm wide vehicle must move into the oncoming lane to pass me safely,” explains Vogel. “We know that the majority of drivers don’t want to move into the oncoming lane and will therefore ‘take’ the 100 cm passing distance for themselves and deliberately endanger the cyclist,” says Vogel. Cyclists often ride in the middle of the lane to be more visible to drivers, appearing in the rear-view mirror as opposed to a side mirror and staying out of blind spots. Motorists have the responsibility to scan the roadway ahead for cyclists. Motorists need to acknowledge that cyclists take up more road space than their own body width and that motorists have their vehicles to protect them whilst the cyclist is totally exposed. “When a motorist takes away the one metre space which a cyclist is entitled to by law, a life is in danger,” explains Vogel. “Most cyclists will move over to the left-hand side of the road when it is safe to do so.” “We should all acknowledge other road users and this is not just a wave or a nod of thanks.”
Khayelistha's Sustainable Cycling Tour
We Design & Develop Modern Websites
Thursday’s blue skies and fair weather was perfect for the group of local tourism stakeholders and tourism business owners that set out from Lookout Hill on the Sustainable Tourism Cycling Tour of Khayelitsha.
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During the half-day cycling event, guests joined the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Area East, Councillor Anda Ntsodo, cycling between four tourism sites. There was ample time between for guests to network and meet local business owners at each site. Cape Town is a leading African destination and it draws visitors from domestic and international markets. Even though many of these visitors are very sensitive of their global carbon footprint, awareness of resource consumption continues to grow.
WHY USE US - We build more than just websites, we help shape the brand identity of your business - We eliminate the confusing tech jargon and give you simple solutions!
The Sustainable Tourism Cycling Tour will offer a more responsible experience of township culture, providing visitors with more opportunities to interact with the local community than they would have from an air-conditioned bus, they will lower their local carbon footprint and have the chance to support local businesses.
- Regular Maintenance is key to the longevity of your brand! website reference: www.mgb.co.za
SERVICES WE PROVIDE | Websites |SEO| Logo’s | Business Cards | Brochures | |Advert Design | Magazines | Newspapers | Books | // Cell: 082 628 5028 // Email: johan@web-rage.co.za or // Info@web-rage.co.za // www.web-rage.co.za
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The tour was organised by the City of Cape Town’s Area East as part of Tourism Month and International Year for Sustainable Tourism for Development activities. In line with this theme, the tour focused strongly on responsible tourism and local area tourism development.
The intention and purpose of the Sustainable Tourism Cycling Tour is to promote cycling as an alternative and safe means of experiencing the township by decreasing the carbon footprint and being environmentally friendly; encouraging social consciousness through engagements with the local communities and utilising local businesses; generating an income towards local tourism businesses and creating a platform for engagement between tourism stakeholders and local businesses. For more information contact Racquel Barnard at racquel.barnard@capetown.gov.za
COMMUNITY
GET WALKING, START TALKING! - HOPE HIKE & BIKE Do you want to break the stigma and silence around depression as mental illness? Then join the Hope Hike and Hope Bike to help raise awareness around depression as clinical illness with a family friendly fun walk or mountain bike trail. One in five South Africans suffer from a mental illness, with some waiting up to ten years before seeking help. Depression is an illness, not a weakness, and can be treated. According to the World Health Organization depression has increased by 18% in the past ten years and is currently the third biggest global illness. Soon, in 2020, it will be the second biggest, and in 2030 the biggest. According to one statistic, worldwide almost 350 million people suffer from clinical depression, with almost one million per year who lose their lives to suicide. According to other statistics, depression costs the South African economy R218 billion and is the cause of 47% of early retirement and 32% of all sick leave. The individual suffering of those who have to live with a debilitating, paralysing, and sometimes fatal illness, however, cannot be described through mere statistics. Therefore, the sooner you recognise the symptoms and seek help, the sooner you can manage the disease with the help of therapy and medication. To show you care, get walking and start talking! Join the Hope Hike and the Hope Bike to raise awareness of depression and make your contribution to break the silence and stigma surrounding depression and other mental illnesses. The Hope Hike and Hope Bike is your opportunity to help break the silence surrounding the disease of despair, to raise HOPE, and to spread the message that without mental health there is no health. You can be an Ambassador of Hope throughout October by wearing your ‘sky-blue for hope’ awareness ribbon – and join us on the Hope Hike and Bike and wear something blue to show you care.
Photo Credit: Jacques Stander Photography
Afterwards, enjoy the lovely eats and treats of the Blaauwklippen Sunday Market. The Hope Hike and Hope Bike will take place on 15 October at Blaauwklippen, R44 in Stellenbosch. The Hope Bike fun ride provide a distances of 25km, while the Hope hike include a 3km, 5km or 10km route. For more information visit www.iqela-events.co.za
D4D - CARING FOR CHILDREN IN NEED This was achieved by generating funds for distribution to various organisations involved in caring for these children. During the 12 years of their existence, they have raised and distributed close to R5 million. D4D raises funds in two ways. Firstly, through individual athletes who find sponsors for every kilometre they run, cycle or swim during a year through training or participating in specific events, e.g. Comrades Marathon, the ABSA Cape Epic, the Iron Man and the Cape Town Cycle Tour. Secondly, D4D hosts two fundraising events, namely THE500 and The Gratitude Run. THE500 is a 24-hour cycling and spinning event which takes place bi-annually. This year’s event will take place on 14 - 15 October 2017 in Somerset West. THE500 comprises of a group of twenty cyclists, required to complete 500km in 24-hours. The group has to complete ten laps of 50km each (5 x day laps and 5 x night laps). In order to achieve this, they have to maintain an average speed of 23 km/h throughout the event. The start will be at the NH Lord Charles Hotel and the route will take the riders through Stellenbosch, Kuilsriver and back. The night laps will be partly off-road at Lourensford Wine Estate. Individual riders or teams can join the group and cycle one or more laps with them.
Distance For Difference (D4D), is a registered non-profit organisation, which over the last twelve years, made a significant contribution towards the well-being of children in need.
Concurrently, running on the hour, there will be spinning classes presented by Virgin Active instructors at the hotel. Corporates are invited to sponsor a bike and occupy it for 24-hours and they can also challenge other corporates to be part of this amazing endurance event. To register or sponsor this event, visit www.d4dsa.co.za or Facebook page www.facebook.com/D4DSA
TREE PLANTING PROJECT COMMENCES WITH FNB W2W IN BOTRIVER The community of Botriver welcomed the planting of 58 trees compliments of the 2017 FNB Wines2Whales (W2W) Mountain Bike (MTB) Events, Botriver School and Themba Trees. “We are thankful to all FNB W2W entrants who, on entering this year’s event, donated R100 to the Botriver School Tree Project,” says Johan Kriegler, FNB W2W Director. “A total of R20 000 was donated to the project. The trees were planted where the W2W route enters Botriver (at the railway crossing) up until the Botriver School. We also planted trees in front of the four crèches that form part of the FNB W2W Crèche Educational Initiative. Private homeowners helped to dig the holes and have agreed to look after the trees that were planted in front of their residences. This project forms part of our greater goal which is to enrich the communities that are situated along the FNB W2W MTB route.” According to Yusuf Haas, Principal at Botriver Primary School, the community of Botriver is in need of trees. “A lot of the trees in the area died. We decided to start a campaign to save all indigenous trees and asked W2W for assistance. Through this project we’ll be able to educate our learners as well as families along the W2W route on the benefits of having trees in their surroundings. We’ll teach them to look after the trees and hopefully inspire a love for nature. The school’s involvement includes the allocation and planting of the trees as well as the monitoring of the development of the project.” Started in 2007, Themba Trees is an indigenous and ornamental wholesale tree nursery that is situated on Kromvlei Farm in the beautiful Elgin Valley. “Themba Trees strives to give hope and a sense of place to those who seek to improve their environment,” says Caroline de Villiers, Owner and Manager of Themba Trees. “We felt that the money that was donated had to be allocated to the purchasing of trees.”
“ Therefore our contribution towards the project included: transporting and delivering the trees to the various identified locations, a bag of compost and some fertilizer per tree, as well as the planting know how and tree monitoring support throughout the year.” “The FNB W2W/Botriver School Tree Project is extremely important,” continues de Villiers. “I would love to see it replicated at all the major sporting events in our country. An event must create environmental awareness in the communities that it touches, while entrants need to be able to give back to the communities. It is also vital that the communities benefit in tangible and long term ways that will improve the quality of life of all community members. Together with FNB W2W and the Botriver School we are proud to do our part for the community of Botriver.”
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LIFESTYLE
NIKON PRO PHOTOGRAPHERS SET TO SHOWCASE NIKON D850 The Nikon D850 Pro Photographers, featuring 32 talented photographers across Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa who will front the campaign for Nikon’s latest FX-format DSLR, the D850, has been launched by Nikon Singapore Pty Ltd. “We are pleased to be partners with these 32 accomplished photographers across the Asia Pacific and Middle East & Africa region, ” says Hiroki Yamaoka, General Manager of International Business Division Imaging Group, Nikon Singapore Pty Ltd. The Nikon D850 Pro Photographers will explore the D850’s promise of unrivalled versatility as the new camera touts a combination of high speed and high resolution capabilities and seamless switching between first-class photos and 4K videos. Four experienced photographers from each of the eight local Nikon offices or subsidiaries in the region, namely Australia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Middle East & Africa, will represent the genres of wedding, nature, commercial and sports photography that the new camera is optimised for, to create new stills and footage to be featured in the campaign.
Photo: Craig Kolesky one of 32 photographers across Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa to showcase the Nikon D850 - Photo Credits: Kolesky/Nikon/Lexar
As the new local faces of the camera in each of these countries, the Nikon D850 Pro Photographers will first be immersed in the solid heritage and quality Nikon stands for in the imaging industry business. Through visits to Nikon Corporation, Nikon Museum, Nikon Plaza Ginza and Tochigi Nikon Corporation, one of the NIKKOR lens factories, in Japan photographers got a first-hand experience of the strong ‘craftsmanship culture’ and ‘pride’ that goes into creating every single element of the D850 and its selection of accompanying lenses. The D850 is now available with the AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR, or with the body-only configuration.
NEW ELECTRIC BIKES BY TREK MAKE MORE POSSIBLE Trek, a global leader in the design and manufacture of bicycles, believes that cycling should be fun whether you’re cycling for pleasure or transportation! Trek also knows that there are instances where this might not be the case … like when you’re out cycling with your super-fit riding buddy, and you’re way behind him! Or when you’re out mountain biking with the family, and all you want is to be together, not arrive at your destination, exhausted and ready to pack up. The same goes for cycling to work: you’re cycling to save fuel, but that last hill leaves you wiped out for half the morning! Can you identify?
Mid-drive motors keep the weight distribution lower, and along with the position of the removable battery on the downtube, you’re in for a more stable, smoother ride. At Trek, we only partner with other experts in the industry. “We don’t skimp by using off-brand motors, which is why we’ve opted for Bosch, being the trusted name when it comes to small motors.”
Electric bikes: changing the face of cycling There are a lot of reasons to ride an e-bike. These rides are all about possibility. On or off-road, they’re perfect for those who want to climb for a bit longer, adventure a bit further or just get there a bit faster. Trek electric bikes amplify your pedalling power, as well as your ability to see and achieve more on your bike. They’re quick and smooth, with predictable, easy-to-control power and come with a rechargeable battery. Keep up with your faster friend on the trails or even beat the traffic and show up to work looking fresh and ready for the day. If you’re wanting to experience more, to go faster and further, an electric bike lets you do it. What a pleasure. Photo: Trek Super Commuter
Go further with Powerfly - The beauty of the all new Trek Powerfly electric mountain bike range is that these bikes amplify your pedalling power while amplifying the amount you’ll have on the trail. You’ll go further, go faster, and go more places on your Powerfly! The Powerfly features a Bosch Performance CX pedal-assist motor that makes for a supremely capable electric bike, allowing you to go further and have more fun. At the heart of the pedal-assist drive is the rugged, reliable, mountain-ready Bosch motor with additional integrated motor protection. The compact Bosch Purion display is durable and easy to use without letting go of the handle bar. Choose from 4 assist modes so you can get a balance between power output and range, or select the intelligent e-MTB mode which automatically adjusts the amount of assist required to match the changing terrain. Make more possible with Powerfly this summer. Photo: Trek Super Commuter
Trek electric bikes: a game changer for all cyclists! With over 40 years dedicated to manufacturing bicycles, Trek uses only the most experienced designers, and the development of the electric bikes ensures an end product with that same Trek reliability, quality and performance that cyclists around the world have come to know and trust. Trek builds products to last a lifetime, and offers a lifetime warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Trek’s launch of two new electric bike categories is set to change the way South Africans will view and experience cycling. The Trek Powerfly electric-MTB range enables mountain biking enthusiasts to go further, while the Trek Super Commuter+ 8S is sure to be a commuting cyclist’s dream. These bikes are pedal-assist, so input to the pedals determines the level of assistance. Riding a bike with pedal-assist is incredibly intuitive, so anyone who can ride a bike, will immediately feel comfortable on one.
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Goodbye car, good day, Super Commuter! - It’s hot, it’s viper red and it’s set to take you places in style. The Trek Super Commuter 8+ is the electric bicycle that makes getting where you need to go, a breeze. Our expert designers selected the Bosch Performance Speed motor, designed for athletic and powerful riding and doing justice to its name as the #1 performance system. The integrated framemounted long-life battery is a long-distance commuter’s dream, offering ideal balance along with a sophisticated look. With pedal-assist, you determine the level of assistance you need; so much so that you might be tempted to take the long way home from work! The integrated rack and fenders takes the headache out of transporting items on your trip, while Trek’s custom Motor Armour provides additional protection from road debris. Wide, high-volume Schwalbe Super Moto-X tyres effectively combat our country’s notorious potholes, while direct-mount hydraulic disc brakes work together with a carbon fibre e2 fork to ensure all-weather stopping power. The Supernova daytime running light and tail light ensure optimal visibility, all the time.
YOUTH
WC SPUR SCHOOLS MTB LEAGUE WRAPPED UP FINAL EVENT The Western Cape Spur Schools MTB League wrapped up their final event for the season at Paul Roos Gymnasium in Stellenbosch. This is where schools rack up the last of their points in order to be crowned the overall regional school champions for the season. The top qualifying high schools also received an invite to the Inter-schools final that will be held in Magaliesburg in October. An action-packed day saw the top Southern Cape riders battle it out for their position in the Western Cape Provincial Schools team that compete on the Sunday of the Inter-schools competition. Regional event coordinator Michelle Du Preez says: “It is amazing to see the passion and love for the sport that these pupils have. The amazing turnout that we have at every event just shows that the league and the sport as a whole will continue to grow.” The Western Cape regionals saw over 2000 rider entries this season with approximately 100 schools being represented. The Spirit between the different schools was contagious and Worcester Montana and Parel Vallei took the lead with the High Schools and Melkbosstrand Private School showed the Primary schools how it is done. The best performing high school of the day was Paul Roos Gymnasium, also taking the overall league winner in the category, Parel Vallei High School claiming the top mixed and women’s teams with Kenridge being the season’s top Primary School. Joshau Burger of Parel Vallei High claimed the OVERALL position with a total of 128 points. The Western Cape #4 winners for the following categories are: Sub Junior Boys B (14yrs): Julian Bunge, Oakhill College; Sub Junior Girls B (14yrs) Andrea Schoffman, Rhenish Girls High School; Youth Men A (15yrs): Joshua Burger, Parel Vallei High School; Youth Women A (15yrs): Stefke Tolmay, DF Malan High School; Youth Men B (16yrs): Jamie Penfold, Paul Roos Gymnasium.
Youth Women B (16yrs) Michaela Beaton, Rhenish Girls High School; Junior Men (17-18yrs): Johan Trotsky, Montana High School; Junior Women (17-18yrs): Leonora du Preez; Outeniqua High School. The Western Cape Schools Cycling Committee wishes all the riders that will represent the Western Cape Province at Bekker High Nationals all of the best. “We know that you will do your school and Province proud! We hope to see even more Schools enter the Western Cape Spur Schools MTB League in 2018,” says Annelize Ziehl-Owens, Vice Chair. The Spur Mountain Bike League Interschools Final wraps up this season on 7-8 October 2017 in Magaliesburg.
JUNIOR MOUNTAIN BIKERS BLAZE THE BOSCHENDAL TRAILS Making his Fedhealth Kids MTB Events debut on the day, four and a half year old Tyler Van Gesselleen of Stellenbosch was the first rider to cross the finish line in the 0 – 5 year category. “My Grandpa entered my name into the race. I had a good ride and wanted to win. My MTB hero is Nino Schurter.” Four year old Hannah Watts of Somerset West was seen riding her new bike on the day. “I had fun. The route was super hard. I turned four this month. I entered because I wanted to ride my new bike. I will definitely be back next year.” Seven year old Ben Teubes of Rondebosch was all smiles when he crossed the finish line. “I like riding my bike and I really like racing. I am happy that I finished first today. My Dad is my MTB hero.” Joshua du Plessis of Stellenbosch was the first rider home in the 5km race. “The route was great,” says a very happy du Plessis. “It was muddy and tough. I like mountain biking because I really enjoy training. My father rides a lot. I enjoy riding with him.”
Photo Credit: Tobias Ginsberg
Boschendal Wine Estate was buzzing with excitement on Saturday, 16 September 2017 with junior mountain bike (MTB) enthusiasts eagerly lining up to participate in the 3rd annual Fedhealth Kids MTB Events. Featuring three events: a 500m, 1.5km and a 5km race, the Fedhealth Kids MTB Events catered for children between the ages 0 – 5 years, 6 – 9 years and 10 – 13 years.
Jeanne Jordaan of Stellenbosch entered the 5km race because she loves mountain biking. “I am really happy to have crossed the finish line first. I only wanted to beat my sister though. I enjoy the sport because I love getting muddy and really enjoy the down hills.” Says Jeremy Yatt, Fedhealth Principal Officer: “Each year, we just love seeing our young riders in action at the Fedhealth MTB Challenge. Not just hanging around to support Mom or Dad, but actively having fun and competing in their own races. That’s why we introduced this family event in the first place: to get the whole family together around fun, fresh air and exercise. Well done to every junior rider for completing the race. You are all champs in my book!”
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THROWBACK
#TRANSKAROO MTB On 2 September 2017 Deon de Lange wrote his name in the MTB history books when he won the 2017 Trans-Karoo MTB in 10:12.36 in his first attempt at the event. Helena Bester was the first individual female across the finish line, while Dominique Provoyeur and Rozanne Schreiber won the team section.
#WESTCOAST EXPRESS With little wind and few hills, the 2017 West Coast Express was bound to come down to a bunch sprint, and that’s exactly what unfolded, with Evan Carstens (Team Giant) outsprinting the field to claim the victory. Teammate Bradley Gouveris finished second, with Shameeg Salie (Alfa Bodyworks) coming in third. Courteney Webb (UCT Cycling) crossed the line first, with Susan Melmed and Liezel Jordaan finishing in second and third respectively. The race, which took place on Sunday 10 September in idyllic conditions, was the first road race of the PPA Vida Spring League (a series of eight events including five road races, two criteriums, a hill climb and a time trial), so it was a bunch of hungry riders who lined up on the start line, eager to get some points on the scoreboard. Dubbed the fastest, flattest race on the calendar, this year’s race certainly lived up to its name, with the front bunch averaging just short of 42km/hr. From the elites to the first-timers, the 2017 West Coast Express, organised by the Outriders Cycle Club provided cyclists a great challenge on a perfect Cape Town day. For the first time, both the 78km and 54km route included a section along the N7, which was a great thrill for many.
Over the last 5 years the Trans-Karoo MTB has built a solid reputation for a ‘bucket list’ event; one of the toughest one-day endurance mountain biking challenges on the calendar and an event that tests both physical and mental fitness. To pedal 247 km off-road within 17 hours is not an easy task in anyone’s books, and 2017 was no different. The race started in Sutherland where the start-line temperature was minus 3 degrees. The route included Ouberg Pass, and undulating plains of the Tankwa Karoo. The Trans-Karoo MTB alternates annually between a ‘down’ (Sutherland to Kaleo outside Ceres) and an ‘up’ ride (Ceres to Sutherland). The organisers are looking at moving the date for 2018 back to end-April.
#LangeBERG LINK MTB 3-day MTB Event
What an experience in many ways – a historic event. The first ever 3-Day Langeberg Link mountainbike event took place outside Swellendam at Oudewerf Farm during the Heritage-weekend of 23 - 25 September, and described in a few words - it was absolutely phenomenal. Set in the most beautiful farming landscape, with cycling routes through canola fields, in, up, and through the Langeberg mountains overlooking the Overberg as far as the eye can see, with Bonnievale in the west, and Swellendam in the east, making this an event not to be missed. The scenery was absolutely overpowering.
Photo Credit: Double ST
According to race director and chairman of the Outriders Cycling Club, Derwyn Oxley, “Feedback from every rider at the finish was that the work had paid off. 2017 will be a hard act to follow.” The upcoming events in the Vida League are as follows: 1 October (PPA Cyclosportif #4), 28 October (Durbie Dash), 5 November 2017 (Killarney Criterium) and 19 November 2017 (PPA Cyclosportif #5).
#UCI MTB WORLDS South African under-23 mountain biker Alan Hatherly achieved a career-best result when he claimed a silver medal at the 2017 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships in Cairns, Australia, on Friday, 8 September. Hatherly completed six laps of the 4.3-kilometre circuit 11-seconds off the pace of race winner Samuel Gaze (NZL), who’s winning time was one hour 17 minutes 46 seconds. “I’m lost for words,” said the 21-year-old mountain biker from Hillcrest, KwaZulu-Natal. “I’m stoked with the outcome. It was my plan from the start of the year to do well at these World Championships. Thanks to everyone who has helped me along the way to get me here to where I finished today.” Hatherly competed in the Olympic Cross-country race, and he had a good week in the build-up to the event, compensating for the heat and humidity at Smithfield Park. The Team Spur rider said that it was a tactical race, but it all went according to plan.
The local farming community came out in full force. They manned waterpoints, assisted with marshalling, and some even fulfilled the Heritage Braai Day functions, with food and drink on sale - creating a marvellous carnival atmosphere. The weather on the first two days was sunny with some cloud, and the final day saw the Langeberg covered in clouds at the start, with rain setting in shortly before the end.
“I knew that I had to be near the front of the group as overtaking on that track was difficult. I stayed on fourth wheel early on, and on the fourth lap, Sam attacked. I managed to chase down and kept him close. We rode together for about a lap, and at the top of the climb he got out of the saddle and kicked really hard. I couldn’t react to the attack, but I just rode steadily and managed to hold a 10-second gap through to the last lap. I gave it my all.”
GreatTime, the time-keeper of record, captured the times and provided an excellent service. Before riders could sit down in the spacious barn to rest their tired legs, results and photos were already on display. The youngest contender in the kiddie’s race, was a six-year boy from Swellendam. His enthusiasm was so contagious that helpers eagerly awaited his return. His accompanying mother was out-cycled up the final little hill to the finish line. Riders as far as Pretoria engaged in this cycling event, and, as many other cyclists, all confirmed that, “this was an awesome experience, a cycling event we will not miss for all the money in the world.” These riders have all booked their entry for next year’s LangebergLink MTB Event scheduled to take place at Oudewerf Farm from 23 - 25 September 2018. For more information call 074 457 6777 or visit www.langeberglinkmtb.com
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Photo Credit: Michal Červený
Hatherly is a product of the Spur School’s MTB Series programme, where he raced in his school years. “Thank you to Spur for your involvement in these initiatives to support the growth of mountain biking from a young age, providing a racing platform from which South Africa’s riders can race and grow in confidence,” he concluded.
CYCLING EVENTS
Get Ready for The Durbie Dash
The Hills Challenge The Hills Challenge is definitely one of the new up and coming events to look out for. The Hills Challenge takes place on 21 October at Doringlaagte Holiday resort in the beautiful town Montagu in the Little Karoo. This is an great family event with lots of activities for young and old, there are 4 mountainbike routes on offer. The 80km is one that will take you to 4 well known hills in that area, like Bobbejaanbult and Ouberg.
Photo Credit: Jacques Viljoen Photography
The Durbie Dash, presented by the Durbanville High School takes place on 28 October 2017 and is more than a fundraising event - it offers participants and spectators a wide range of activities to make this a very special occasion. This year the Durbie Dash will offer a 90km and 46km road race - with the 90-km race being part of the new Vida Spring League, presented by the Pedal Power Association and has also been listed as a seeding event for the Cape Town Cycle Tour 2018. The 4 mountain bike routes include a 65km, 45km, 25km, and 12km. An interschools competition for boys and girls will take place over 25km and 45km MTB distances with both boys and girls competing in teams in age categories: 13–14, 15–16 and 17–18. The teams consist of 4 riders each where the best three times per team count towards finding the winning team. The King & Queen of the Mountain for the MTB event will receive R5 000 each. A trophy for each winning team will be on offer, with individual prizes for the winners as well as lucky draw prizes.
This is definitely not one to take lightly. The 48km is also a good and challenging route for the more fit rider, the 26km for the less fit and upcoming riders, and then the 12km ride is for the children. The trailrun routes are the 15km that will take you over Tafelkop and it is definitely for the more fit and experience runners, and the 8km is also tough, but not that extreme. There are more than enough waterpoints on the route, and also sweepers and medics at the venue and on the route. “We also have a helicopter on standby this year, that can be use for medical assistance or recovery.” The day will come to an end with a 5km colourrun that the whole family can participate in and it definitely is lots of fun. www.thehillschallenge.co.za
Piket-bo-berg - The U Stage Race
For those interested in trail-running - the Trail & Urban Fun Run will comprise of 14 km, 9km and 3,5 km routes. There will also be a Fun Park with rides to entertain the junior members of the family. A marquee with a variety of food and beverage stalls will be available. For more information visit www.durbiedash.co.za or contact Ernst Viljoen: 082 452 0373 or Freddie Brooks: 082 215 8159
New Start Venue for Stof En Teer The 3rd year of the Surval Stof En Teer event will take place on 28 October 2017 in Oudtshoorn. This unique race unites the road and mountain bike disciplines with 4 members in a team – 2 road cyclists and 2 mountain bikers - each covering a distance of 75 km - therefore called “Stof en Teer”. The race starts with the 2 road cyclists at Smitswinkel with the route taking them through the beautifull village of Schoemanshoek towards the iconic route to the Cango Caves where they turn into the direction of the Swartberg Pass. Just before the pass they will turn left, in the direction of Calitzdorp at Swartberg Manor, where the road cycling team will handover to the mountain bike team. Families, supporters and cyclists can enjoy the hospitality at Patat, the in-house restaurant at Swartberg Manor. The mountain bikers will be riding through a private nature resort at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains, turn left into the Latgansvlei valley and ride through working farms with ostriches, tobacco fields and onion seed production areas. After returning to the outskirts of Oudtshoorn, they will travel on the gravel road on the way to Schoemanshoek with the finish-line in a Olive orchard at the Surval Boutique Olive Estate.
Photo Credit: Chris Hitchcock
Piket-bo-berg Trails is home to the U Stage Race taking place from 20 - 22 October 2017. Riders will be able to enjoy two days of unforgettable authentic technical mountain biking with the addition of the Prologue on Friday afternoon. Do not be fooled by the distance on each of the days - you will work hard for every single kilometre, but you will love every moment of it! The Route Prologue - (6km Trail, 137m Elevation) It’s a proper mix of ferocious climbs and hair-raising descents (it’s the only kind we have). Expect bespoke trails and foul language and afterglow faces and proudly emptied CBC beers! Day 1 - (48,1km Trail, 1298m Elevation) Also includes a fun section through the Pine Forrest with a couple of bridges, berms and jumps to spice things up! After completing the full 48.1kms on day one, riders will return to the race village to rest and recuperate for the next day. Day 2 - (49,5km Trail, 1293m Elevation) Will be spent exploring the multitude of trails on Mouton’s Valley, owned by Farmer Eric Starke, which include loads of challenging climbs, rock gardens, berms and switchbacks. Your efforts will, however, be rewarded when you reach the highest point possible on the mountain with the most beautiful views, including Table Mountain and the West Coast coastline on a clear day. For more information visit www.piketbobergtrails.com
Voet van Afrika MTB Race The Voet van Afrika MTB Race will take place on 15 October 2017 at Glaskasteel in Bredasdorp. The event was presented for the first time in 2014 as a companion event to the marathon. This unique event was praised by its participants for its challenging single file trails amongst the world’s most beautiful natural fynbos in full bloom. Most riders were amazed by the world class condition of the complete route, which is developed and maintained by Southernmost Foundation. At the estate families, supporters and cyclists can enjoy good food and wine at the famous restaurant at Surval. Surval Boutique Olive Estate is the main sponsor of the event with R 30 000 prize money up for grabs in total! Surval Stof En Teer will be a good preparation for the Double Century taking place at the end of November. Last year’s winning team Alpha Bodyworks have already confirmed that they will be back to defend their title this year. For more information contact Corne Botha on 074 260 2871 or visit www.cycleevents.co.za
This year’s MTB Race hosts rides for amateurs to advanced mountain bikers. The distances include: 57km, 47km, 33km or 15km with new trails and varied terrain. MTB riders from across the globe are invited to join a race which promises to develop into one of the most beautiful and enjoyable events of its kind. Unlike the challenging counterpart the marathon, the MTB routes will have you relax a bit, brimming with delight! Whilst every route will take you to a climb, the ride thereafter will be primarily downhill with rolling hills right until the finish. For more information visit www.entryninja.com/events/event/21002
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CELEBRATE THE DIRT, CULTURE & SPIRIT OF MOUNTAIN BIKING!
CrankChaos is back and it’s a once in a lifetime celebration of all things mountain biking. Come ride with Greg Minnaar, experience extraordinary trails and meet riders and brands that refine and define the sport we love. CrankChaos is a four-day action packed mountain biking festival, descending on Afriski Mountain Resort from the 26-29 October 2017.
For riders, the mountains surrounding Afriski are riddled with extensive mountain bike trails, dams, spectacular views all just one 7 minute uplift away. Whether you tread among the gravity fed or just want to take a long, winding adventure through the Maluti mountains. You’ll gain access to multiple cross-country, enduro and downhill trails for the whole weekend. For competitors there will be a variety of events with prizes up for grabs. From leg and lung busting Altitude XCO Equalizer and Hill Climb to the gravity driven Enduro, Downhill Eliminator, Avalanche and much more. This year with the addition of a brand new nighttime spectacular – the Dual Slalom. The Dual Slalom, which will take place at night on AfriSki’s main ski slope will be styled as a slalom course with approx 8 berms and a series of gates to navigate on the way down. Riders are invited to participate in the knock-out format, racing in pairs until only one winner remains. Naturally, the Dual Slalom winner takes all.
Photo Credit: Craig Kolesky
For those who prefer their adrenaline served at a distance, come and watch the action as a spectator. Enjoy a relaxing weekend away and everything the Afriski Mountain resort has to offer. Afriski has over 450 beds, ranging from backpacker facilities to luxury chalets. There is plenty of entertainment for the whole family and delicious meals available at the Sky Restaurant, the highest restaurant in Africa. Enjoy a couple of drinks at The Gondola Café a unique, high-altitude après-ski bar that will play host to a legendary after party on Saturday night. Three time Downhill Mountain Bike World Champion, Greg Minnaar, is a partner and big fan of CrankChaos and had the following to say: “CrankChaos is what the South African mountain bike have been waiting for, similar festivals happen all over the world, it’s about time we had one of our own. I’m really excited about the location and the format and can’t wait to be there come October.” For more information visit www.crankchaos.com
STBB’S MTB & TRAIL RUN CHALLENGE TO MAKE CHILDREN SMILE! National law firm, STBB’s 7th annual mountain biking and trail running challenge is taking place on 20 October (Trail Run) and 21 October (MTB Challenge), at the picturesque Overgaauw Wine Estate in Stellenbosch, on the unique Bottelary Renosterveld Conservancy routes traversing 22 wine farms. The event has a new name, STBB4GOOD to include all the charity ventures going forward, but retains its unique brand of a fun day out for the whole family with a food market, wine tasting, craft beer and kiddie entertainment, combined with simply the best-organised sporting event you’ll ever attend, and a “must do” on the MTB calendar. This year’s beneficiary is Miles for Smiles which raises funds for Operation Smile to cover the costs of corrective surgery for children born with cleft lips and palates and who would otherwise be unable to afford this life-changing surgery, which enables them to swallow, eat and SMILE normally. Tickets sales are open and limited to 1 700 entries, so book your tickets today. For more information www.stbb.co.za/mtb-challenge/2017/