INTO N E W S PA P E R ISSUE #21
August 2018
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1ST SA LADIES TEAM TO TACKLE CYCLE TOUR IN THE HIMALAYAS
Photo: Liezel van der Westhuizen & Cindy Jacobsz at Sea Point Promenade, Cape Town
Media personality Liezel van der Westhuizen is set to take on her greatest challenge yet as she and her partner Cindy Jacobsz, member of SA Tandem for the Blind, will tandem cycle over 500km through the mighty Himalayas. The event is a remarkable one as it is an inclusive event which sees visually impaired athletes taking part. #M2K2018 – Inclusive Tandem Cycling Expedition With Adventures Beyond Barriers Foundation. Adventures Beyond Barriers Foundation (ABBF) is India's leading adventure sports not-for-profit that caters to Persons with Disability as well as able-bodied adventurers.
At the age of 16 Jacobsz was diagnosed with Macular Degeneration, Stargard leading to eventual blindness, in spite of this she had gone on to achieve remarkable things. “I was extremely honoured and excited to be asked by Cindy to partner with her. She is a remarkable athlete who despite the challenge presented by her blindness has gone on to earn national colours for cycling. I am going to have to be on top of my game to keep up,” laughs van der Westhuizen. Continue Reading Page 3
NEWS HISTORIC RESULT FOR MOOLMAN-PASIO IN THE GIRO ROSA
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Ashleigh Moolman-Pasio, rider for Cervelo Bigla Pro Cycling Team completed the Giro Rosa with significant results. She completed the only Grand Tour in women’s cycling in second place overall, becoming the first African rider to do so. Moolman-Pasio has completed the Giro Rosa in the top 10 several times, but today marks her best performance to date. Moolman-Pasio spoke of the team’s commitment to develop and how this result is a testament of that. “For us, the most important thing is development,” she said. “It’s rewarding to see how each rider on the team grows through such a demanding tour. Not just physical development but mentally and by character. That is important to us. It’s about becoming better people and to see that is amazing. A Grand Tour is no joke, this has been a demanding tour and to see the development of the riders is really rewarding.” “It’s my first Giro Rosa podium. It would be wonderful to win this race one time in my career and this is the closest I’ve come, so I’ll keep challenging. It’s quite an emotional experience to finish on the podium. Successfully standing here on the podium as an African is a big achievement for me, I am really proud of it,” the South African concluded.
MAX AND JACQUES GOING TO WORLD STUDENT CHAMPS
editor@intocycling.co.za Deadline 12th each month
Two members of the Maties Cycling Club, Max Sullivan (Master’s degree: Public Administration) and Jacques Lloyd (BAcc) will be representing University Sports South Africa at the World University Cycling Championships (WUCC) in Portugal.
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The other members of the SA team include Jacques Horn and Elmari de Wet from Tuks. The event comprises a time trial and a road race.
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The recent USSA Championships in Pretoria played a big role in the preparation for Sullivan and Lloyd. The Maties team won the championships and Maties cyclist Gert Heyns won the General Classification. Lloyd won the Green Jersey as the best sprinter and he finished second overall. It was the fourth year in a row that Maties won the team competition and a hat-trick of titles for Heyns as individual. Ben Fish won the King of the Mountain jersey.
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July 2018
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In the women’s competition Maties finished second and Linda Hitchings finished second overall. Sullivan and Lloyd are both amped for not only a great experience in Europe, but also for a good performance for Maties and South Africa.
SA ROAD CHAMP INCLUDED IN TOUR DE FRANCE LINE-UP
Photo: Daryl Impey riding for Mitchelton-SCOTT - Photo Credit: ASO/Alex BROADWAY
Australian outfit Mitchelton-SCOTT has named an in-form, eight-rider team to line-up for the Tour de France that will take place from 7-29 July 2018 that will include South African Daryl Impey.
It will be Daryl’s 6th Tour de France appearance. “Looking forward to another year with the boys for the big lap of France. I’m excited to go to Tour de France again with this crew,” says Daryl Impey.
Daryl Impey 2018 Tour Down Under champion, 2018 SA Road Champion and recent Criterium du Dauphine stage winner and winner of the green jersey, will add strength and experience to his team in the transitional stages at the Tour de France as one of the best all-round riders in the world.
Impey became the first ever South African cyclist to win the South African Time Trial title seven times, as well as his first South African Road Championship title earlier this year, having placed second in the road event on two previous occasions in 2014 and 2015.
“Two years ago, Maties sent three riders to the Philippines where they claimed 13th spot in the criterium and 6th place in the road race. We are hoping to return home with similar results,” said Sullivan. “We will be riding in SA colours, but be sure that we will be flying the Maties flag all the way,” he added.
Event Format - Men, Women & Solo Riders - Ride All 3 Stages - Ride Single Stages
2018
22-24 September 2018
Online Entries: www.entrytime.com T: 074 457 6777 | W: www.langeberglinkmtb.com // Based at Oudewerf, 10km from Swellendam on the R60 \\ // Light snack after each day’s ride \\ // t-shirt & goody bag to all pre-entries, Medals to all 3-day finishers\\
Event Cost
Stages - Stage 1, 52km - 900m ascent - Stage 2, 28km - 520m ascent - Stage 3, 52km - 900m ascent
// accommodation: www.swellendam-info.co.za \\
Photo: Ashleigh Moolman Pasio celebrates her second place finish at Giro Rosa 2018 Photo Credit: Sean Robinson/velofocus.com
- All 3 Days, R1200pp - Single Stage, R450pp Timing by Great-Time
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NEWS
1ST SA LADIES TEAM TO TACKLE CYCLE TOUR IN THE HIMALAYAS (CONTINUE FROM PAGE 1) The event will take place in the Indian Himalayas from 18 - 30 August 2018 and will begin in Manali before the cyclist’s climb over 3 500 metres to finish in Khardung La. The event is a unique one in that not only does it have visually impaired cyclists taking part but will also see 5 amputee cyclists also braving the elements. “This is an experience of a life time and I would love to arrange similar events for blind cyclists in South Africa to give other blind and visually impaired cyclist the opportunity to experience MTB cycling and the beauty of South Africa. I am raising awareness and encouraging athletes with visual disabilities to participate in sport and to reach their dreams and goals,” says Jacobsz. Both Van der Westhuizen and Jacobsz are extremely passionate about philanthropy and have decided to use the event to raise funds for two medical charities namely Operation Smile South Africa and OneSight.
Photo's: Liezel van der Westhuizen & Cindy Jacobsz, at Seapoint Promanade, Cape Town
Operation Smile is dedicated to providing free surgery to children and adults born with cleft lip and/or cleft palate, while OneSight provides refractive error services and prescription spectacle to those people without access to affordable vision care. “This ride is about more than ourselves. We wanted to find a way to make a real difference with every pedal stroke and so it was a natural decision to support these two incredible charities who essentially give people their smiles and help others see them,” explains Van der Westhuizen. To donate R30 towards Operation Smile & OneSight SMS the word “Tandem” to 42030
EXPERIENCE A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE - THE #ROLALIFESTYLE! Although a healthier lifestyle is the initial attraction to the sport of cycling, as passionate followers of the sport, we all soon discover all else it has to offer. With the hashtag #RolaLifestyle, an aim to share and live out specific values were set. Marius Claassen, Chief Executive Officer of the Rola Motor Group, is an avid mountain biker, having finished the Absa Cape Epic in the past. He soon realised the positivity and values he learned in this sport, could be of benefit in the business world. Rola Volkswagen lifestyle ambassador, Ariane Lüthi, a true professional in the discipline of mountain biking, and Rola Motor Group brand ambassador, Liezel van der Westhuizen (cover story) promote a healthy lifestyle and community involvement. The affiliation between the Rola brand and its brand ambassadors thus came naturally. The Rola Volkswagen Group wants to get involved with local communities in order to help improve lifestyle and education. What better way to do this than supporting the VWSA blue bike “bicycles change lives” campaign. Mobility is given to children in the form of bicycles in order to help them with their daily commute between home and school. Rola Motor Group wishes Liezel van der Westhuizen and her team mate Cindy Jacobsz, all of the best when they take on the Himalayas on a tandem bicycle. We commend Liezel on her dedication and passion to give back to society, which ties in with the Rola family values.
Photo: Ariane Lüthi, Rola Volkswagen lifestyle ambassador
“We also would like to wish Ariane Lüthi good luck with her future plans, we are looking forward to seeing her compete in the UCI XCM World Championships taking place on the 15th of September 2018.” For more information visit www.rolacars.co.za
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NEWS
KRUGER & HANEKOM TAKE THE WINS AT AROUND THE POT 100-MILER The second edition of the Chas Everitt Around the Pot, Overberg 100-Miler, on 21 July 2018, saw HB Kruger and Kylie Hanekom race to victory. The race, which also featured team categories as well as 25 - and 60- Mile distances, saw a significant turn out of gravel bikes – though the eventual winners took part on full suspension mountain bikes. Starting in thick mist at 7am in Swellendam, the 9 kilometre neutral zone along the national highway provided riders with the chance to warm their legs. Once the route tuned onto the gravel, and the flag dropped for the racing to begin, the pace was furious. “I got away right in the beginning with five other guys,” race winner HB Kruger explained, telling how he, Timo Cooper, Izak Strauss and the winning men’s team of Charles Mcfall and Etnard Louw made the initial break from the rest of the field. The five spent the next 110 kilometres working together, until after the neutral zone at the Malgas Ferry. With the 100- and 60-Miler routes crossing the Breede River at Malgas the timing was paused as the riders descended into the hamlet of Malgas and only restarted once they had crossed to the eastern bank of the river. Being drawn across one of the Western Cape’s largest rivers on a historic and human powered pontoon is one of the unique charms of the race.
Photo: Around The Pot 100 Miler 2018 - Photo Credit: Oakpics.com
“After about 110 kilometres I decided to increase the pace and then time trialled on my own to the finish,” Kruger continued. The Ellsworth Bikes rider was clearly the strongest in the field; securing victory over Timo Cooper and Izak Strauss by 5 and 12 minutes respectively – with a winning time of 5 hours, 21 minutes and 20 seconds. The majority of the field took part on mountain bikes, but there were a significant number of gravel bikes on the start line too. Mcfall was the first gravel bike rider home – crossing the line in a time of 5 hours, 27 minutes and 26 seconds – with Louw in the Men’s team category. After nearly three years of forum chat about gravel bikes being ideal for South African conditions it appears that the tide has truly turned and they have begun to garner a groundswell of support, with riders on bikes entering events.
Photo: HB Kruger
MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL’S OWN SADDLE-UP TO CYCLE FOR CHARITY
More than 30 amateur cyclists will hop onto their saddles for a gruelling 600 kilometre cycling challenge across the Western Cape in a bid to raise awareness on the importance of encouraging a culture of sport as a means of breaking socio-economic barriers among the youth in South Africa. The challenge, titled: Road To Awareness (R2A) kicks-off at The Westin, Cape Town located in the City CBD in August and will be led by Economic Opportunities MEC, Alan Winde and trailed by a team of cyclists representing various hotels in Marriott International’s portfolio across Africa and the Middle East.
The women’s champion Kylie Hanekom also rode a gravel bike to victory at the Around the Pot, Overberg 100-Miler. “It was a rad adventure riding a gravel bike at Around the Pot” Hanekom enthused. “There were kilometres of perfect gravel road and the trip across the pont was a definite highlight” the Specialized rider recounted. The 2018 champion held off Martha Koekemoer by 6 minutes and Alisha Myers by 9 minutes to claim the title. The team categories were as fiercely contested as the solo races. The men’s team champions were Mcfall and Louw, riding as Mad Macs powered by Hazz, while the Visseredwards team of Aryna Edwards and Carien Visser claimed the women’s team title. The honour of being the first woman across the line on the day fell to none other than Yolande de Villiers, who stopped the clock in an impressive time of 5 hours, 34 minutes and 32 seconds, alongside her teammate Neill Ungerer.
WANNABEES CYCLING CLUB SPRING DAY ON A BICYCLE
“Sport has an unbelievable way of bringing people together and in a Country like ours where so many of our people face economic uncertainty, nurturing a sporting talent is one way of breaking free from those circumstances, changing lives and uplifting our communities, especially among the youth,” says Leon Meyer, General Manager Westin Cape Town, hosts of the event. The R2A cycle challenge forms part of a series of key events initiated by Marriott International to raise funds for charities in Africa and the Middle East each year. This year, the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation – an organisation committed to using sport as the main vehicle for change to overcome poverty, discrimination, drug abuse and other social challenges has been selected as the R2A beneficiary in South Africa.
On the back of a very successful circuit race at Somerset Lakes last year, The Wannabees Cycling Club are back to host another WP Cycling Association league race in and around Raithby “Spring Day on a Bicycle” on 2 September 2018. The race will take place on a 9.9km circuit around the Winery Road and Raithby area. “We endeavour to have something for all on bicycles as far as age, ability and a fun Best Dressed Spring competition category.” Racing sets off at 8h00 with the youth/scholars followed by the open fun and best dressed spring girls and guys who complete one lap, 9.9km for the best dressed girl and guy prize or 2 laps for the fastest open girl or guy prize. (Please note all children 14 years and under may participate in this fun open category but must be accompanied by an adult for the duration.) Next it will be the Cat 3, Ladies, Cat 2 and finally the big guns in Cat 1.
During the R2A cycle challenge, cyclists will follow a pre-selected route, which starts and ends at the Westin Cape Town. In between, cyclists will make their way past several other areas, including Wellington, Stellenbosch, Hermanus, Muizenberg and Camps Bay. For more information visit www.facebook.com/MarriottR2AinMEA
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In conjunction with this Western Province Cycling Association league event, the Wannabees Cycling Club will be running a competition at the Raithby Primary School, who are a beneficiary of the Cycling Clubs social responsibility program. Each pupil in the school designs this events marketing poster which will feature the elements of spring and bicycles. The pupil who wins the poster competition will win a lunch for his or her entire class from one of our sponsors. For more information contact Sue on 083 578 9375
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HIGHLIGHTS
CA2CX MTB TOUR
TRAIL RUNNERS & MOUNTAIN BIKERS CELEBRATE THE FREEDOM OF SYLVESTER
The second edition of the Sylvester MTB & Trail Run Challenge took place on 22 – 24 June 2018 with the race village at Grantham Camp in the Karoo National Park, near Beaufort West. Hundred-and-forty seven mountain bikers and thirty-five trail runners celebrated the freedom of Sylvester, the Karoo Lion at this year’s event and rode and ran where Sylvester once roamed freely! Sylvester arrived at Kuzuko Lodge, after escaping twice out of the park of his birth, the Karoo National Park.
A group of 72 keen mountain bikers departed on 24 June 2018 for the annual CA2CX MTB Tour, now in its 13th year. The riders started off at Meerendal Wine Estate to conquer a distance of 695km to Knysna to arrive in time for the Knysna Oyster Festival, where several of these participants took part in the Knysna Cycle Tour MTB and Road Race. The daily route, of about 100km per stage consisted of farmlands, spectacular landscapes and amazing views with back-up vehicles and 4 - 5 star accommodation all the way! The 6-day CA2CX MTB event took riders from Meerendal via Worcester, Montagu, through the Klein Karoo towns of Ladismith, Van Wyksdorp, over the Rooiberg Pass near Calitzdorp to Oudtshoorn, down the Montagu Pass to George, and then travelling over 8 passes to finish in Knysna. Every year CA2CX Tour returns favour by giving back to the community. The Gala evening held in George on the eve of the last stage commenced with the traditional auction to raise funds for the Herberg Children home in Robertson. This year with the help of the CA2CX riders and sponsors they managed to raise R310 000. Into Cycling met up with the riders as they arrived at Garden Route Trail Park for the last leg of the tour. The riders arrived in 3 groups, the racing snakes, the weekend warriors and the muskadel riders, with each group accompanied by a ride captain to ensure the safety of the group. It was wonderful to see many riders from last year, as well as the sponsors for the past years back to experience the well organized tour by Johan Steyn. Entries are capped at 55, and are now open for the CA2CX 2109 event. For more information visit www.mountainbikeadventuretours.co.za
PERFECT CONDITIONS AT MOMENTUM KNYSNA CYCLE TOUR MTB AND ROAD EVENT A muddy course and perfect conditions for mountain biking made for a brilliant day of cycling at the first major sporting event of the 2018 Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival. The Momentum Knysna Cycle Tour kicked off with the MTB event.
Photo: Robyn de Groot & Gert Heyns
The 80km event was won by Gert Heyns with Knysna home boy in Matt Beers and third was HB Kruger. First female home and ninth overall was Robyn de Groot with Candice Lill a split second behind her, and Sarah Hill in third - an extremely close finish for the Elite women.
The second day of the Momentum Knysna Cycle Tour saw the elite men and women battle it out in the 115km road race. Chris Jooste, rider for Team BCX narrowly beat NAD Pro’s Matt Beers in a thrilling sprint finish with Theuns van der Bank in third. Beers, who was also second in Saturday’s MTB event, joked that he was “destined for second” this weekend. Anriette Schoeman, who came third last year, was first female over the line, beating Candice Lill by two seconds and Lucy James by three seconds. Candice was just amazing after a brutal MTB race the day before where she also came second.
Photo: Anriette Schoeman & Chris Jooste
PAGE 6
Marketing Director of the Momentum Knysna Cycle Tour, Andrew Finn said that the weekend of cycling events had gone extremely well, due in part to the fantastic weather.
The race started with a spectacular 4,1km prologue at the Karoo National Park main camp with both the start and finish-line at reception, taking riders pass the restaurant and through the building at reception. All the stage race riders were treated with a meal after the prologue, and a Karoo styled spitbraai on the Saturday evening. The 10 honorary rangers and 6 rangers assisted with the water points, and patrolled the route to guarantee the safety of the riders. Armond Nel, one of the guides who tracked Sylvester for 21 days on foot took part in his first ever MTB event. During the 3-day Sylvester MTB & Trail Run Challenge most riders stayed at the main camp in Karoo National Park, 35km from the race village at Grantham Camp, while others stayed at Bed and Breakfasts in the surrounding area. The organizers are already planning to incorporate a tented accommodation option at the race village for next year.
Photo's Credit: Louis Visser
Kuzuko Lodge new home of Sylvester, one of the main sponsors of the event funded a collector’s item bottle of Wine with a picture of Sylvester on the front and at the back his life story, medals resembling the latest photo of Sylvester with specially designed ribbons to distinguish between the stage race, one day riders and trail runners, as well as trophies carved out of wood - a true reflection of a foot print of Sylvester. “All the riders loved the event. Many have already booked their accommodation for next year at the Karoo National Park. You can only truly know and talk about this unique race in a conservation area, once you have experienced it, therefore we will see you next year at Grantham Camp,” said Corne Botha of Jakhals events.
JBAY WIND FARM MTB CLASSIC The sixth edition of the JBay Wind Farm MTB Classic, part of the JBay Winterfest took place on 14 July 2018 around the Eastern Cape holiday town of Jeffreys Bay. Riders of all ages and skill levels braved wet and chilly condi-tions to tackle the finest trails. At the sharp end of the ultra marathon, Declan Sidey was the convincing winner. Sidey riding for Team Mad Macs p/b hazz from Stellenbosch continued his form after he stole the show the previous weekend when he won the seventh edition of the Engen Ngwenya Glass Mountain Bike Race in Swazi-land. According to Sidey, he put in a big attack to see who else had good legs on the day, but no-one was able to stay with him.
Photo Credit Jazz Kuschke
Sidey’s solo effort was valiantly chased by Jason Reed and Jason Peach. The two worked well together, but were unable to bring Sidey back, who eventually crossed the line to claim the R11 000 first prize. Reed came in second with Peach in third right behind him. In the women’s race Yolande de Villiers rode a spectacular race to complete her hat trick, finishing sixth overall in the 85km and collected the R11 000 first prize for her day in the rain, with Anriëtte Schoeman in second and Shauna Esmeyer rounding out the podium. “It was hectic out there,” commented a visibly exhausted De Villiers after the finish. “It was cold and muddy, but I still had a lot of fun! The new bits of singletrack and bridges were really awesome,” she said. While the racing snakes were battling it out at the sharp end, a record field for the event braved the torrential downpours to ride the only one-day event of its kind to traverse a wind farm.
MTB / ROAD EVENT
PAGE 7
WINES2WHALES
The Wine2Whales Legacy – Johan Kriegler Johan Kriegler, the founder of the Wines2Whales (W2W), one of the World’s premier 3-day MTB stage races takes us back on his journey since childhood days in Stellenbosch. Johan’s first bike was a steel BSA that carried him not only to school every day, but into the surrounding Stellenbosch mountains and plantations on weekends where he and his friends built ramps in the veld. After university Johan didn’t take part in many sporting activities. However, in 1985 at the age of 30, his sister Alta, a Springbok cyclist, influenced him to take part in the Argus Cycle Tour. He took up the challenge and rode a steel Peugeot Rapport and managed to complete the race in a sub-three hour ride. It was only after a few Argus Cycle Tours that a friend introduced Johan to mountain biking. To him it was very much like what they did at school on their “dikwiels”. “We swapped our road bikes for mountain bikes almost 25 years ago when they still had steel frames and knobbies, with no suspension until the aluminum frames with the elastomer front shocks was introduced,” Johan recalls. He was fully engaged into mountain biking, and entered events all over the country, whilst on business trips. He would fly back and forth to Cape Town once or twice a month. “It was a hectic time, a hard time, but also a good time, and the consultancy business was doing well, but this was not at all a sustainable lifestyle,” Johan remembers.
Johan Kriegler on his father's Vespa at the age of 1 in 1959
On weekends back home, Johan and his friends explored and built trails around the Boland mountains, much like school days. They hosted their first genuine mountain bike event in the Western Cape, and called it the Vergelegen Classic, later known as the Lourensford Classic.
Johan Kriegler testing climbs on the Wines2Whales route
On the start-line of the first official W2W there were only 110 riders. As marking the trail would be a real waste of time, Johan showed the route to some friends before the event, and during the event they all played follow the leader. “Those were the fun times, as cyclists got lost - most were found. They enjoyed the wine-and-braai with laughter sharing their experiences of the day,” Johan recalls. Later the 2 day / weekend W2W became the W2W Pre-Ride and then the Houwhoek Tour. After the April event Johan partnered with Hendrico Burger and Michael Meyer and Dezroy Poole from Stillwater Sports and together they established the 3 day W2W. Within 2 years it became one of South Africa’s most popular mountain bike events, consisting of three events, catering for all levels of riders and attracting almost 3 900 competitors per year.
“We could ride it, but it scared a lot of riders as there were insane drop-offs with most riders walking down, some lost their grip, while others lost their nerve - not to mention the many casualties.” Johan confesses that he contemplates a lot how to improve things, from business systems and procedures, which later included the W2W events. His early business days were spend on analytical studies how to design and implement business/ productivity improvements, addressing resources, skills, and business concepts. By the mid-90s Johan started his own consultancy, completed his Masters in Corporate Governance, and travelled around the country promoting Quality Strategies. At age 48 Johan was flying throughout the country, hardly spending any time with his family, realizing that this was no way to live. In 2006 a friend invited him to ride the sani2c MTB with amazing single tracks that the event has on offer. During the event Johan recognized that the Western Cape displays beautiful mountains and the sea, but does not have a mountain bike ride such as the Sani2c. The question that came to mind, “Why not start a 3 day mountain bike event in the Western Cape?”
Johan Kriegler riding on the Wines2Whales route
Johan realized what “Farmer” Glen (Haw’s) secrets were; he was building single tracks exclusively for the Sani2c and did all the organizing and logistics himself. Johan stays in Somerset West and has a cottage in Hermanus.
Eleven years ago he started riding his mountain bike scouting possible routes in the Helderberg and Overberg region, to figure out a 3 day route from Somerset West to Hermanus.
Test walk on creative section of trail by PERI - In and around the Eikenhof Dam, Botriver
Trail Building The success of the W2W through the years has led to other events, the Houwhoek and Greyton MTB weekend tours. To date around 75 bridges has been built, the largest being, Witklippies on Paul Cluver Estate, 8m high and 50m long, as well as unique scaffolding structures including the magic Vergelegen bridge and Kromco PERI Playpark. During the first three years of W2W, the Pedal Power Association co-funded some of the trail building. Johan also contemplated how W2W could become a sustainable vehicle to improve the lives of previously unemployed youths. He achieved this by setting up a trail building enterprise with four youths from Grabouw; Ashwell, Brendon, Denzel and Jason. Cape Trails passion is to build and maintain the best MTB Trails and they have participated in sani2c, to see and experience what they have to better. Cape Trails has built public trails on the Paul Cluver Estate, Thandi Estate and Schapenberg, under the initial leadership of Martiens Scheepers together with four employees.
It took Johan almost a year to figure out an acceptable route. In 2008 he was ready to launch his new trail and invited 30 MTB friends to join him on the Mountain2Ocean Pioneer Ride. “I asked them R150 per rider to cover the expenses for the Saturday evening braai at Oak Valley, and the wine they enjoyed,” Johan remembers. The following year, during April, Johan and Gerda organized their first official 2 day event. Gerda made history by re-naming this event, the “Wines2Whales”.
The first Wines2Whales Race without a title sponsor
PAGE 8
“Most intriguing structure that I've build - the real McCoy - first real Poffies in Paul Cluver a much more simplistic structure than we have now - but man it could bite worse than a Poffie - check the Medic on standby on the rock- he ran out of supplies. It's easy if you know and are confident to ride a MTB, but if you've touch the back brake, the back wheel will slid off - pulling you and the bike down in an uncompromising manner. After 2 years in W2W we had to build an easier and safer Poffies option- Poffie had to become a softie”
WINES2WHALES
“My extended family; Cape Trails and their new house, bought by W2W”
“We invested in a home for the Cape Trails in Grabouw and have established, with the support of Big Box and BEN (Bicycle Empowerment Network) a community bike shop on the property. It creates additional income for Cape Trails; by buying second hand bikes from BEN, service and repair it, and sell at a profit. When I look at the achievements of Cape Trails and how they have grown, and enjoy developing these trails – it has become one of my greatest achievements. Another route-related achievement is that we have ignited a number of trail building initiatives in partnership with other trail builders and landowners, such as Errol and the Basin MTB Club at Lourensford, Quenion Gobregts at Oak Valley, Andries Burger at Paul Cluver, Braam Gericke at Wildekrans and Jan van Schalkwyk at Hermanus,” says Johan.
Admiration in the eyes of the ones that failed Poffies.
Johan says that most people just want to have fun on their bikes and want to ride a trail that doesn’t kill them, whilst having a good workout. On W2W they can enjoy the most unique and beautiful fynbos and mountains of the Kogelberg Biosphere and surrounding areas, whilst covering more distance and diversity on a bicycle than you can when hiking. “Afterwards they want to chill with friends, drink CBC beer and enjoy another day in our beautiful country,” he adds.
Handover of bikes to Botriver School kids
In class with students of he Botrivier Education Foundation
“The FNB W2W is the kind of riding I like - the kind that ensure you have fun on your bike. The climbing is not too long, hard and/or boring. The single tracks are built to eliminate unnecessary climbing or boring sections. For the W2W rider it’s not only fun on the bike, but having fun during the whole event. This requires exceptional organization, sponsor-, landowner-, and beneficiary relations and partnerships on our behalf.”
Installing a Cape Leopard camera A proud and lonely moment - contemplating the completion of Witklippies kloof bridge in partnership with Dr Paul Cluver
“Therefore, experiencing fun is applicable to all the interactions that we have with riders, from entering, at registration, at the Oak Valley Race Village, on-route, and in the FNB Rider tent,” Johan explains. Cape Epic acquires the FNB Wines2Whales In 2017 the Cape Epic approached the W2W Directors with an offer to purchase the FNB Wines2Whales. As part of the sales agreement both Hendrico and Johan will remain with the Cape Epic team to ensure that the ethos and DNA of the FNB Wines2Whales stays intact. The 2019 FNB Wines2Whales edition will celebrate the 10th anniversary of the event with the final finish-line at the Marine Hotel in Hermanus, where the ‘whales’ will welcome these riders after their three day endeavour. The 3 different events were renamed to Chardonnay, Pinotage and the Shiraz to place the emphasis on the “wines” character of the W2W. The Chardonnay now caters for the professional women, to ensure that they receive similar exposure and greater coverage during the event. “The future challenge is to keep improving the FNB Wines2Whales by maintaining the vibe and fun component of the event. This will require our ongoing and best creativity, organization and team work,” Johan concludes.
Giving new bikes to Cape Trails Photo's Credit: Cherie Vale, Ewald Sadie & Oakpics.com
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YOUTH
Johann Potgieter
givingback to the kids and youth!
Young South African riders
to compete in the LONDON-PARIS 2018
HotChillee named two young South African riders, Loyiso Fulu and Linwill Jansen from their Bäckstedt HotChillee development programme to race the HotChillee LondonParis 2018 and compete for the BikeRadar General Classification, Cycling Plus Climb and Procycling Sprint Jerseys. Team Bäckstedt HotChillee’s aim is to foster young cycling talent in Europe and South Africa and create a pathway into the pro peloton. The programme is headed up by Paris-Roubaix winner Magnus Bäckstedt and supported by the Western Cape Government, Wattbike, Rainmaker Solutions, Lassen Sportswear and Velokhaya Life Cycling Academy. The programme has had previous success, including Nicholas Dlamini who won the HotChillee London-Paris for Team Wattbike as part of the programme in 2013. Nicholas now rides for Team Dimension Data, a World Tour Team.
Johann Potgieter, 4-time South African Downhill champion has been racing mountain bikes for the past 18 years and has since 2006 been involved in skills lessons. When he is not racing full time abroad, he is back in South Africa where he organises youth camps and runs skills lessons training. After having presented 7 successful camps in the past, Johann will host his 8th youth camp in the October school holidays in the Western Cape. Due to the high demand there will be 2 camps back-to-back this year. The first camp will start on 29 September to 2 October 2018, while the second camp will take place from 3-6 October 2018 at the Vuurberg wine farm, just outside Stellenbosch. The camps will take place over a 4-day period with a limit of 30 kids at each camp and will not only cater for downhill riders, cross country and trail riders, but also for all kids that are able to ride mountain bikes - they do not need a lot of experience and beginners are also welcome. During the youth camp Johann covers a variety of aspects ranging from bike handling skills, training, mechanical knowledge, cornering, drops, bike setup, and jumping. According to Johann the biggest factor with regard to mountain biking is that it is all about having confidence. The kids will also learn other life skills such as making new friends and motivating each other. “When I was young, we had no one doing skills clinics, therefore for me to help a younger cyclist reach their full potential, is the best feeling. You never know where the next Greg Minaar’s and Nino Schurter’s are hiding, with the correct training and guidance we can help those riders to get there. To see the top pro riders at the top of their game inspires me a lot,” says Johann. For more information contact Pottie on 072 460 2408 or johann.potgieter87@gmail.com
Photo: Loyiso Fulu
Seventeen year old Loyiso Fulu from Khayelitsha, is a member of the Velokhaya Life Cycling Academy and has been riding for 4 years. “I have never left South Africa before and only flew on a plane for the first time this year,” said Loyiso. Linwill Jansen is 18 years old and rides for Rhadsport CC and Team EGK. He is the current Western Cape Province Junior Road Race Champion and younger brother of Clint Hendricks. He has been riding for 7 years. “Cycling means a lot to me, I love it. It’s my goal in life to ride at a professional level for a team like Dimension Data. I am going to use this opportunity to improve my skills and fitness,” said Linwill. Nic Dlamini, congratulated them on their selection. “Winning the Yellow GC Jersey for Team Wattbike in 2013 was the start of my journey into pro-cycling. I hope you enjoy the race like I did and make the most of every opportunity it offers. Good luck!”
Oudtshoorn Youth Cycling Festival produced spectacular racing The U/17 race was won by a 2 man breakaway on the last lap with Benjamin Brown from the Eastern Cape taking the honours. The Junior race was won by Cape Winelands rider, Linwill Jansen. Day 3 of the Youth Cycling Festival started off with the MTB events at the Oudtshoorn Quad Club – the XCO in the morning and the oval track events in the afternoon. With most of the Western Province riders not taking part in the MTB disciplines, it was mostly Eden and Eastern Cape fighting it out for the podium positions. Eastern Cape managed to win 6 gold medals and Eden 4. The MTB Track racing lived up to its expectation with existing sprint finishes in the short bunch races. Cape Winelands managed to get two gold medals, with Eden and Eastern Cape four each.
Photo's: Oudtshoorn Youth Cycling Festival - Photo's Credit: Louis Visser
The Oudtshoorn Youth Cycling Festival started in Oudtshoorn at the Highgate Ostrich Show Farm on 25 June 2018, with more than 260 youth cyclists from the Eastern Cape, Cape Winelands, Cape Metropole and Eden competing - an excellent opportunity for the Provinces to identify talent, and assist with development and transformation goals. Day 1 of the four day Youth Cycling Festival started with the road races and the Team Time Trial. The morning session saw the road races taking place with Cape Winelands taking a clean sweep in the U/17 boys race. In the Junior race Whayde Davids of Cape Winelands took the top spot, with Ryno Gerber from the Eastern Cape 2nd and Eden’s Morneal Esau in third. In the other road races the podium positions were evenly distributed among the participating regions. During the afternoon session 5 - 8 riders in an age category competed in the team time trial. In the qualifier, a girl had to finish the time trial. In this event the Eastern Cape took the honours with a close competition in all the age categories. Day 2 of the Youth Cycling Festival saw riders participating in Criterium racing in Bridgton on the Aurial College circuit. This format of racing did not disappoint and good aggressive racing was the order of the day. Criterium racing is always a crowd favorite and especially the U/17 and junior groups displayed a good show for the spectators.
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The Oudtshoorn Cycling Youth Festival came to an end on 28 June 2018, with the last of the MTB track events. Day 4, the last day produced some spectacular racing with the scratch and elimination races. The podium positions followed the trend of the week and was distributed evenly amongst the participating regions. The winning margin for the winning region was only 17 points. Eden took the honours and beat the Eastern Cape with Cape Metropole in third position. The top riders of each age category was presented as well as the top scoring team, the U/19 team from the Eastern Cape. Desmond Speelman from The Eden Sport Council attended the closing prize giving and gave special thanks to the riders attending and their parents for their support, while Corne Bence, the Eden and Western Cape Cycling Chairperson congratulated the riders on the positive racing and thanked everyone for being part of this succsessful event.
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MTB
Absa Extends its
Sponsorship of The Absa Cape Epic
‘A Rising Star’
Meet 18-year old Mia de Villiers Just four-years ago mountain biking was simply an exciting hobby for 18-year old Mia de Villiers. She only jumped onto the saddle sporadically, and seldom took the sport seriously. Fast-track just a few years and she’s a budding MTB rider and a Spur Schools MTB League Rising Star. “I started riding with my dad, just as a pass time. It was fun and I enjoyed it, especially when I had some free time after netball,” Mia says. But before long, MTB went from being a hobby to a sport she grew to love so much that she has fast become an avid rider with an “absolute passion” for the sport and a participant of the country’s largest cycling programme – the Spur Schools MTB League. In 2016 Mia scooped first place in the Western Cape leg of the race and 5th place in the national final..
Photo Credit: Sam Clark/Cape Epic/SPORTZPICS
Absa continues to back the world’s premier mountain bike stage race in what has become the longest-standing partnership for Absa in South African sport . When Absa first signed as the title sponsor of the Cape Epic back in 2006, it was the first of its kind for mountain biking in South Africa. Back then the race was still in its infancy – an eight-day point-to-point journey that took riders from Knysna to Spier in Stellenbosch via some of the Western Cape’s most breath-taking trails and mountain passes. A lot may have changed over the years but Absa has remained committed to the Cape Epic and in doing so, galvanised its reputation as the gold standard for mountain bike stage racing in the world.
Mia, a matric pupil at Paarl Girls’ High School has big dreams, and one of them is to participate in the Absa Cape Epic. To-date Mia has earned the Western Cape XCO champs title in 2016 and third place at the 2017 SA XCO Champs series. “I truly believe that if you can dream it, you can do it. It just takes hard work and a bit of sacrifice, which involves early mornings to train, and packing in some extra hours of study time later in the day. The reward is great, so it’s all worth it,” Mia says.
Recently the banking giant announced it would be renewing its position as title sponsor of the Untamed African MTB Race for a further three years (2019 to 2021) which will take its total involvement with the race to an astonishing 15 years. This announcement comes off the back of the news that Absa will soon roll out an all-new corporate identity and brand overhaul – which, co-incidentally, happens to be more closely aligned to the race’s ideologies. For the Cape Epic, Absa has become a pivotal cog in the event’s DNA and having such a prestigious company support and shape its future has been integral to the event’s success over the past 15 years. Absa’s continued support and involvement with the race and mountain biking as a whole clearly highlights the value it sees in the Cape Epic. Since its humble beginnings back in 2004 the Absa Cape Epic has grown in stature and now forms part of a bigger series of global mountain bike stage races – the Epic Series of which the Absa Cape Epic is the pinnacle.
LANGEBERG LINK MTB
But there’s a lot of work to be done for the 2018 League season, and Mia’s already packing-in a rigorous 6-day a week training programme to ensure she stays fit and on top of her game. “Last year was very difficult, I took a nasty fall and broke my wrist and I was forced to park my bike for a long time. But the accident taught me resilience and to never give up on my dream,” she says. Mia says she is most proud and adds that it demonstrates that young girls really can enjoy and excel at MTB. At this year’s Spur Schools MTB League, Mia hopes to qualify for the final in Magaliesburg in October, as well as obtain her Western Cape marathon colours. Ever since Mia started to participate in the MTB League, she has worked hard on getting the school involved in the league and now there are quite a few riders from her school participating.
3 Day Langeberg Link MTB Langeberg Link MTB will take place over the Heritage long weekend from 22-24 September 2018 and will be based at Oudewerf Farm, Kliphoogte, east from the Swellendam N2/R60 intersection.
WHEN 22-23-24 SEPTEMBER 2018
WHERE Oudewerf Farm On R60 And Just Outside The Historic Town Swellendam
COST All 3 days – R1 200 per cyclist and R450 single stages/day Timing by Great-Time
ENTRIES www.entrytime.co.za +27 74 457 6777 2018
info@langeberglinkmtb.com www. langeberglinkmtb.com
PAGE 12
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. The Langeberg Link MTB route has never before been cycled on by any race before 2017, and will once again take place on the same route, situated mostly on private land, not open to the public – thus ensuring the uniqueness of the event. The track, where access is limited, is purposely designed that cyclists can enjoy the overwhelming beauty of fauna and flora in the area and experience some breathtaking views of waterfalls. The race is open to all mountain bike enthusiasts. Riders can choose between a long route, or a short route. The event also offers Solo and Team entries in all three days, or single days. A reason for having a 3-day MTB event in the area was to identify and establish an event that will benefit and involve the local community, whilst also ensuring the longevity and sustainability of such a mountain bike race. This year, the finish-line for all three days will be inside the large barn. This will enable riders to feel part of the hospitality of the local people, who will be on hand to provide refreshments to tired riders. For more information contact 074 457 6777 or visit www.langeberglinkmtb.com
ROAD & TRACK
Road safety rules for cyclists on early morning rides Hit and run crashes involving cyclists have become a common phenomenon in South Africa. Many of these accidents occur in the early hours of the morning when drivers return from a night out on the town. Durban cyclists Richard da Silva and Jared Dwyer were struck from behind by a car, allegedly driven by a speeding, drunk motorist whilst out on a training ride in the early hours of the morning. “Many of us cycle in the early morning hours, out of necessity or preference. Especially over weekends, cyclists need to be extremely careful and alert on their morning rides,” says CEO of the Pedal Power Association, Robert Vogel. The roads in South Africa are unsafe for everyone, but cyclists and pedestrians don’t have the protection of sitting inside a vehicle, says Vogel. “Being out early morning comes with challenges and risks as many motorists return from a night out, intoxicated and not completely in control of their vehicles,” explains Vogel. Road safety means giving fellow road users space. A cyclist has as much right to use the road as any motorist and should be afforded the same tolerance and respect as a motorist.
SA CYCLING JUNIOR NATIONAL TRACK CYCLING CAMP
The SA Cycling Junior National Track Cycling Camp was recently held at the Bellville Velodrome, between the 3-8 July 2018. The training camp served as both a Talent ID Camp, and a Development Camp for both Under 17 and Junior riders seeking to represent South Africa at future International Tournaments. National Junior High Performance Track Cycling Manager, Kurt Begemann put the 15 riders through their paces, with only a short break for lunch. “The training camp is a comprehensive curriculum that covers both Sprint Events and Endurance Events. All riders have to tackle both disciplines, because at their relatively young age, they are generally still inexperienced enough, and have little point of reference to what they may be good at,” said Begemann. After covering all the different events, the riders were given opportunities to tackle the SA Junior National Time Standards, which were developed as accurate reference points to the Worlds Best Juniors, from previous World Championships. Conditions were not ideal as the temperatures inside the Velodrome averaged between 12 -16 degrees for the entire week, which definitely hindered the athletes performance. Storm King came closest to hitting the Sprint Qualifiers, and Mathew Fortuin, came closest to hitting the Endurance Qualifiers.
When cars follow each other, they leave a safety gap to the car ahead. When cars overtake they give each other space, so why not give a cyclist a safety gap when passing? Why take life-threating risks and insist on overtaking a cyclist on a blind rise, in the face of oncoming traffic, in a corner, literally shaving past the cyclist with no safety gap? While we ask everyone to share the road and show respect, the motorist has the potential to cause the most damage to life and limb. “As cyclists we can keep left, indicate with hand signals and ride in single file but we remain vulnerable road users nevertheless,” says Vogel. “Obeying the rules of the road does not always offer cyclists maximum protection,’ says Vogel.’ It is up to the other road users, specifically motorist, to give cyclists a wide berth and ensure there is enough space when passing.” The one metre passing law in the Western Cape states that vehicles need to pass cyclists with a wide berth of at least one metre. A motorist is allowed to cross a solid white line in order give a cyclist at least one metre, if it is safe to do so. “The Pedal Power Association (PPA) with close to 18 000 members invests millions into our safe cycling campaign to hopefully secure safer roads for cyclists,” says Vogel. “We advocate tolerance and mutual respect towards one another on our roads. Our message is simple. We ask cyclists to ride single file and motorists to wait until it is safe to pass and then give cyclists a gaps of at least one metre when overtaking. Space Saves Lives,” Vogel concluded. For more information, visit our website www.pedalpower.org.za
SPACE SAVES LIVES
PASS SAFELY
Photo: SA Cycling Junior National Track Cycling Camp - Photo Credit: Owen Lloyd
“Storm will age up and out of the Junior Category at the end of this season”, said Begemann. But the remaining 14 riders will remain Juniors for 2019, while all the Under 17 riders will still have a couple of seasons ahead of them in the Junior Category. So things are looking promising for the young riders, if they choose to focus on the discipline of Track Cycling, as a major goal,” Begemann continued.
GIVE AT LEAST 1 METRE
“History has shown us that Track was always a complimentary discipline for many of the countries leading riders. Throughout the 1980’s and 1990’s, most of the South African road pros, raced track, but used it primarily as a compliment to their road focus. Unfortunately, that’s not good enough anymore for riders who want to go to the World Stage of Track Cycling. Everyone else in the World are not merely going to Worlds, just to participate. They’re going there to perform well, and you can only do that with dedicated training to the specific events,” said Begemann. With many of the events within the track discipline being team events, such as Team Pursuit, Madison, or Team Sprint, these events take time to develop the cohesive nature between team members, that is essential in order for teams to succeed. “These are highly specialized events, that need to be trained and developed as a team unit. If we can get that message across to the younger riders now, and get them to start training the disciplines as a team unit, then they will all have a better chance of success at the National and International Level,” Begemann concluded. The fifteen riders who took part in the Junior National Track Cycling Camp were: Alexander Craddock, Richard Torrington, Stefan Marais, Storm King, Mathew Fortuin, Jason Bruintjies, Jonathan Bouwer, Abdul and Salaaghuddeen Jacobs, James Swart, Jacques Bredenkamp, Tyler Lange, Siphiwe Mhatha, Njabulo Mdhluli and Daniel Grobbelaar. The South African National Track Cycling Championships will be held in December at the Bellville, Velodrome.
PAGE 13
LIFESTYLE
Cycling Tourism On The Move In The Western Cape
The Cederberg Circuit is the third in a series of Cape Cycle Routes launched by the Ministry of Economic Opportunities in the Western Cape in a bid to grow cycling tourism in the province and provide visitors with unique, and unforgettable experiences along the way.
The Cape Cycle Routes have been designed to put the Western Cape on the map, not just as a premier tourist destination, but as Africa’s top cycling destination. The inaugural Cederberg Circuit ride was a four day, three night ride that was held in June. The 247km ride started in Citrusdal with winding mountain passes and breath taking views as riders cycled past rivers, nature reserves and the Clanwilliam Dam. The route followed from Citrusdal to the Algeria, Uitkyk Pass, Mount Ceder, Op die Berg and back to Citrusal. A permit is required along the route, where riders will be able to see the oldest orange tree, exceptional rock formations and ancient rock paintings. As with all the cycle routes, riders are encouraged to make use of local accommodation establishments, stop at local businesses and enjoy a cup of coffee or a meal, and make use of local services. Minister Winde said, “This region of the Cape is excepWhereas the Cross Cape is a multi-day, gravel ride which allows riders to experience a large section of our tionally beautiful and there is no better way to take in the province and visit small towns between Plettenberg Bay and Stellenbosch, the Cycle Tour 364 is a one day magnificent views and mountain air than from the seat of ride that lets riders explore various parts of the city of Cape Town. The 123km route starts and ends at the your bicycle”. V&A Waterfront, taking in the Atlantic Seaboard, Hout Bay and Chapman’s Peak and the iconic Suikerbossie The other two routes in the series are the Cross Cape hill. Riders on the route are encouraged to stop along the way, take in the sights and enjoy some of Cape and the Cycle Tour 364 routes. The first of these, the Town’s hospitality. Cross Cape route, a 742 km ride through the breath-taking The routes are open all year round to cyclists wishing to undertake the venture on their own programme. Garden Route was launched in 2017 and in May this year Riders are encouraged to take it at their own pace, stopping in at the wealth of accommodation options all the Cycle Tour 364 route was launched in Cape Town. along the route. There is no cost to ride the routes, and it is open to all throughout the year.
Specialized EPIC EVO - A More “Epic” Epic The Epic has rocketed more World Champions, Olympians, and mere-mortal-racers to the podium than any bike in its class. And with the introduction of the Epic EVO’s dropper post, longer-travel fork, wider handlebars, and meatier tyres, we’re making the world’s fastest XC race bike even more versatile. Can you race this thing? Hell, yes. Epic EVO models use the same frame and Brain 2.0 rear shock as our current Epics. The Epic EVO’s more aggressive component spec, however, also makes it the perfect choice for long rides and marathon races. Think BC Bike Race, the Cape Epic, or any local death march that your inner sadist dreams of churning through at soul-crushing speeds. WHAT’S NEW MORE FORK, MORE CONTROL: Day after day of marathon racing hammers your upper body. Remote singletrack is never groomed. The EVOs get longertravel forks with 120mm of travel. WIDER BARS: We didn’t go “full enduro” here, but stretching the bar width from 720 to 750 millimetres adds confidence. DROPPER POSTS: There are a ton of things that you can do. Sure, you can high-post it on technical trails, but why would you? We’re with you, and that’s why dropper posts come stock. GREATER GRIP & DURABILITY: There’s no such thing as “too much grip.” Durable, traction-boosting, 2.3-inch Ground Control and Fast Trak tyres get the nod with the EVOs. SAME EPIC CHASSIS & BRAIN 2.0 REAR SHOCK: The Epic EVO is a more capable Epic, yes, but it’s still an Epic. This means that there’s no bobbing and no energy-sucking suspension squat. Just pure fast. For more information visit www.specialized.com
021 910 1563 86 Edward Street info@tygerbergcycles.co.za Tyger Valley www.tygerbergcycles.co.za Cape Town 7530
Tygerberg Cycles @specializedtygerberg
Featuring: Authorised Body Geometry Fit Studio Kids’ area Service Centre Lounge area
PAGE 14
EVENTS
Staalwater MTB Challenge
Backsberg Dischem Rotary MTB The family-friendly Backsberg Dis-Chem Rotary Mountain Bike Race will take place at the Backsberg wine estate on 19 August 2018. This annual race aims to provide a scenic route to enthusiastic cyclists will feature a wine stop 5 kilometre before the finish. The route includes single track on private land which has been opened up exclusively for the event. The 45km, 30km and 15km routes contain some of the best scenery in the area, with great views of the winelands. The roads are 90% jeep track with some single track and open roads in between. There are some solid climbs, from meandering S-bend climbs to vicious little bumps with fast-forward downhills to recover. The 45km, in particular, includes major climbs: a long 201m steep climb, and a second 110m short climb and is only for fit and experience riders. It requires more technical riding skills, including a fast descent near the end, than the average PPA fun ride and should be seen as a challenge for the fit rider, definitely not for the inexperienced.
The restorative powers of Caledon’s hot springs have been renowned for centuries and on 19 August 2018 mountain bikers and trail runners can enjoy these mineral-rich waters after taking part in the Staalwater MTB Challenge & Trail Run. The late August date coincides with vast fields of yellow canola blossoms and lush green wheat fields, making for a visual feast not to be missed. This event is not only a great opportunity for a family getaway at the beautiful Caledon Casino, Hotel & Spa, but it also offers an event for each family member from the very fit to the novice. The mountain bike event offers a 15km, 40km and 60km, whilst the trail run offers a 7km and 15km. The Caledon’s hot springs originate by the emergence of geothermally heated groundwater that rises from the Earth’s crust. It produces over a million litres of water daily with an average temperature of 65 degrees Celsius source. What makes The Caledon Spa’s natural warm mineral pools unique is that the water is kept naturally pure – no chemicals are added. Thermal Springs are well known to boost blood circulation, reduces stress, promote sleep and is a natural pain reliever. For more information visit www.dirtopia.co.za
The 30km is geared for fit, experienced riders and includes one long 130m climb, while the 15km is just right for novices and beginners. Organised and managed by members of the Paarl Rotary Cub under the auspices of the Pedal Power Association (PPA), the proceeds from this event go towards sustaining Paarl Rotary’s many charitable projects. It is a family-friendly event with up to two children riding free in the 5km race if accompanied by a paying adult. There will be food stalls and a kids’ zone at the finish. For more information visit www.paarlrotary.co.za/mtb
Junior Mountain Bikers In For A Treat At Fedhealth MTB Challenge
Photo: Tyler Van Gesselleen - Photo Credit: Tobias Ginsberg
A-rati ng
The action of the 2018 Fedhealth MTB Challenge will kick off with the Fedhealth Kids MTB Events at Boschendal Wine Estate (The Retreat) on Saturday, 15 September 2018. Celebrating its 4th anniversary, the Fedhealth Kids MTB Events cater for ages 0 – 13. Junior MTB enthusiasts have three events to choose from: a 500m (0-5 years), 1.5km (6-9 years) and a 5km race (10 – 13 years). Tyler Van Gesselleen made his Fedhealth Kids MTB Events debut in 2017. Van Gesselleen crossed the finish line first in the 500m race. “My Grandpa entered my name into the race. I had a good ride. I wanted to win.” Ben Teubes was all smiles when he crossed the finish line first in the 1.5km race.“I like riding my bike and I really like racing. My Dad is my MTB hero.” According to Jeanne Jordaan she entered the 5km race because she loves mountain biking. “I only wanted to beat my sister. I enjoy the sport because I love getting muddy and really enjoy the down hills.” Jeremy Yatt, Fedhealth Principal Officer, says: “We cannot wait to welcome our Junior mountain bikers at the 2018 Fedhealth Kids MTB Events! Apart from having a great time on the tracks, it’s always an awesome way to bond with Mom and Dad and the rest of the family. Since these youngsters are the MTB champions of tomorrow, we like to believe that we’re promoting the sport in that way too!” For more information visit www.stillwatersports.com
2013, 2014, 2015, 2016
PAGE 15
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CYCLE ALONGSIDE YOUR SPORTING ICONS
Once in a while something that is truly challenging and life changing comes along - the African Icons Invitational Cycle Challenge is such an event where individuals or companies are challenged to take part in this most exciting and unique cycling event taking place from 29 September to 5 October 2018. Some of South Africa’s best-known sporting icons have thrown their weight behind this initiative making this an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to cycle alongside the likes of Joel Stransky, Graeme Smith, Bruce Fordyce, Sanani Mangisa and Steve Waugh.
“The African Icons Invitational is also a leadership opportunity, as each of our icons will be an after-dinner speaker at each of the towns that we sleep over as we make our way on some of the Eastern and Western Cape’s most exhilarating and iconic cycling routes from Port Elizabeth to Botrivier.” The aim of the event is to raise funds for the orphans of South Africa police officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. All funds raised will go to support the education of and a monthly income for these families.
For more information visit www.entryrush.co.za/event/african-icons
JAKHALS MTB CHALLENGE CELEBRATES 5 YEARS! Jakhals events will be celebrating the 5th anniversary of the Jakhals MTB Challenge to be held on 1 September 2018 in George. In celebration of this achievement a trail run event will be added for the first time this year. The distances on offer will be 22km, 42km and 62km and the race will form part of the Eden XCM series. The event will start in Geelhoutboom and will take riders on 3 different routes through Jonkersberg. Most of the routes will consist of gravel service roads, jeep track and some single track that are used by the MTO officials. After returning from Jonkersberg riders will be taken through some farm land and also strawberry tunnels as well as blueberry fields. From the strawberry farm riders will be on a gravel road taking them back to the finish-line at the oval stock car track inside the George Agricultural Show Grounds. As the Jakhals MTB Challenge will form part of the annual Agricultural Show, all riders will have a free entry to the Show. Family, friends and supporters can join the riders and spend a fun day at the Show. A shuttle will take riders back to the start venue to collect their cars. The 9 kilometre trail run will start and finish at the Show Grounds and will take runners on a scenic route consisting of single and jeep track. Online entries will be available on www.cycleevents.co.za For more information contact Corne at 074 260 2871
Bring your life Somerset West Shop 6 The Hub, Somerset Triangle 021 8500 514 076 8783 832 vos@bikerack.co.za