Into Cycling - June 2019 by Into Cycling

INTO N E W S PA P E R ISSUE #31

June 2019

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YOUNG RIDERS SHOWCASE THEIR FITNESS AND SKILLS

Photo: SRAM Western Cape XCO Round #4 & Western Cape XCO Championship - Photo Credit: Ewald Sadie | www.esphotography.co.za

The last round of the 2019 SRAM Western Cape XCO Series also doubled-up as the Western Cape Championship and racing took place at the spectacular Diamant Estate in Paarl on Saturday, 18 May 2019. Cool, dry weather welcomed the riders to the 5,2km of superbly prepared track, with approximately 170m of climbing per lap. The Sprogs and Nippers’ shorter lap was by no means easier, and the racing was intense in all categories. A group of Namibian riders participated in some of the categories and did well enough to influence the results at the top end of these categories, notably in the Sprog Boys and Sub Junior Boys categories.

The story of the day was the Junior Men’s race and the incredible performances by Luke Moir, Daniel van der Walt and Jamie Penfold. Starting 2 minutes behind the Elite Men, these 3 riders caught and passed the front Elite riders on the 3rd lap! Their lap times were consistently and substantially quicker than those in the front of the Elites. The race was fast and furious, and a showcase of their fitness and skills. As a matter of interest, the fastest lap in all the women’s categories was that of Andrea Schofmann in the Youth Women category. The sport surely has a great future with these kind of performances from these young riders.

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NEWS

YOUNG RIDERS SHOWCASE THEIR FITNESS AND SKILLS (CONTINUE FROM PAGE 1)

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John Davids, chairperson of the Western Province Mountain Biking Commission said, “From the WP MTB Commission we would like to thank SRAM, our main sponsor of the 2018 and 2019 series for their financial investment in the Western Cape XCO Series. We hope to continue our relationship into 2020, and to develop the sport even more. We want to thank every participant and every parent in supporting their kids and indirectly contributing to the development of cycling in SA. Furthermore, our partnership with Tygerberg Mountain Bike Club has been very successful this year, enabling the WP MTB commission to reach out to more riders than before. TBMTB invests generously in the trail networks around the Western Cape, not only in the Durbanville area, and in doing so develops the sport by enabling more riders to have access to great trails. “We hope to continue our relationship for the next few years.” Morné Veer, Tygerberg MTB Club – Executive Committee Member, had the following to say. “With the majority of entrants, from the nippers right to masters, being members of our club, we see it critical to partner with WP MTB Commission. The format of XCO is the internationally recognised discipline for junior “racing”, and locally there needs to be an automatic step-up from the very successful Spur Schools Series. The voluntary bodies responsible MTB’ing in the various regions, are largely left to their own accord, and they Photo: SRAM Western Cape XCO Round #4 & Western Cape need all the support they can get, to achieve XCO Championship 2019 - Photo Credit: Ewald Sadie | www.esphotography.co.za its various objectives and goals. It remains a challenging environment, but being able to give back to the sport itself, especially in this important discipline and level, forms part of our core values and vision. To see the talent develop on the bike during these events is very rewarding, but as important, the children and youth build friendships, learn a lot about themselves, and get exposed to challenges on the circuit, that would most surely help them in other spheres of life as they get older – knowing this, makes it even more rewarding for us.”

WP CROSS COUNTRY MARATHON SERIES 2019 ANNOUNCED

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The Western Province Mountain Bike Commission is pleased to announce the details of the 2019 Western Province MTB XCM Series. These events will also be the basis of qualification for Western Province MTB Cross Country Marathon Colours.

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Johann Trotzky took a dominant win in the Elite Men’s category ahead of upcoming rider Michard Meets and Rudi Koen. Donovan Le Cok and Nico Pfitzenmaier took the wins in the well supported Sub Vet and Veterans categories respectively. These categories have seen a welcome growth in numbers in the last year and the racing is just as intense as at the front, with lap times not far of those of the Elite riders.

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EXCITING ROUTE CHANGES TO KNYSNA CYCLE TOUR

Photo: Knysna Cycle Tour Road Race 2018 - Photo Credit: Knysna Cycle Tour

The Knysna Cycle Tour will take place in the scenic Garden Route town of Knysna over the weekend of 22 - 23 June 2019 and is one of the iconic sporting events of the Knysna Oyster Festival - now running for over 30 years. Andrew Finn, marketing director for the Knysna Cycle Tour, said that the 2019 event will provide an exciting weekend of cycling for the whole family. “The main events - the MTB Races, the Road Races and the SPUR Children’s fun ride - will be back to thrill and challenge the thousands of participants who flock to Knysna every year for the tour,” said Finn.

The 80km and 50km MTB events and the 104km Road Race are official premier seeding events of the 2020 Cape Town Cycle Tour. “This year we’ve relooked at our routes and made some exciting changes, particularly to the longer road race for elites and experienced roadies. This 104km route is much more scenic now with the inclusion of Buffalo Bay and a section of the historic Seven Passes road between Barrington and Karatara, which is a 2,1km stretch of gravel road.”

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The following four events will form part of the official Western Province (WP) Regional XCM Series: 6 July, WP XCM #1 - Nissan Trailseeker #3 Hermanus, 17 August: WP XCM #2 - Nissan Trailseeker #4 Wellington, 31st August: WP XCM #3 Thys Du Toit Memorial Hopefield MTB Challenge, and 7 September: WP XCM #4 - Fedhealth MTB Boschendal. If you answer yes to any of the following questions, register for the Series. Do you take your marathon cycling seriously, do you want to know where you stand in relation to other Western Cape Cyclists, do you want to know where you stand in relation to your age group, do you want to earn Regional XCM Colours and do you want to earn Provincial XCM Colours. The WP XCM series will only have one prize giving at the Western Province awards evening that is held at the end of the year. (i.e. no awards ceremony for WP series riders post every series race, only the events prize giving will take place). How does the WP Regional Series Points System work? Series three best results of four or more events to count; top twenty positions per category to be given points; for regional colours the UCI MTB points system to each race will be applied; a win receives 200, and then it goes down on a sliding scale; and each rider’s top three result points are added together. Qualification for regional colours through the WP Regional Series Log Less than five participants per category – only first place qualifies, less than ten participants per category – only first and second to qualify, and ten and greater than ten participants per category – top three to qualify. Qualification for Regional Colours through the Western Cape Provincial Champs: Thys du Toit Memorial Hopefield MTB Challenge on 31st August 2019 in Hopefield, West Coast. Individuals finishing in first (1st), second (2nd) or third (3rd) place at the Photo Credit: Western Province Mountain Bike Commission Western Cape XCM Championships who have not qualified through the WP regional XCM series will qualify for Western Province XCM Colours only in the event that the race has a minimum of five participants. Participation in at least one WP/Cape Winelands XCM Series race is a pre-requisite. Individuals finishing in first (1st) place at the Western Cape XCM Championships who have not qualified through the WP XCM Series will qualify for Western Province XCM Colours only in the event that the race has fewer than five participants. Participation in at least one WP XCM Series race is a pre-requisite.

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Qualification for Regional Colours through the SA National Champs: Nissan Trailseeker MTB series #2 Buffelsdrift SA XCM Marathon Championships 2019 on the 29 June 2019.

NOTICE

Individuals finishing in first (1st), second (2nd) or third (3rd) place at the SA National XCM Championships who have not qualified through the first five (5) criteria will qualify for WP/Cape Winelands XCM Colours only in the event that the race has a minimum of five participants.

Articles & Advertisements published in Into Cycling is not necessarily the opinion of Into Cycling unless so stated.

Individuals finishing in first (1st) place at the SA National XCM Championships who have not qualified through the first six (6) criteria will qualify for WP/Cape Winelands XCM Colours only in the event that the race has fewer than five participants.

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Register by 30 June 2019 to be included in the XCM Series Log. Cyclists are advised to send their provincial XCM champs and national XCM champs results to xcm@wpmtb.co.za

NEWS

BATISTELLA SAFEGUARDS YELLOW AT TOUR DE LIMPOPO At the sprint hotspot at 18.5km, it was Nsengimana and Kruger who crossed the line first. Heading up Magoebaskloof Pass, Kruger claimed the King of the Mountain. At 31km, the familiar attack from David Maree came, where he rode solo for the next 30km, the peloton maintaining a consistent time behind him the whole way. A new breakaway developed at 65km, which would contain the lead six who claimed the top six positions of the stage, these were Girdlestone, Worsdale, Hendricks, Oosthuizen, Hendrik Kruger, and Casper Kruger. A crash in the peloton dashed Maree’s chances of bridging the gap to the group as he lost too much time to get going again. Hendricks said, “This is one of the biggest races of the year for me. I didn’t come here with all the firepower as I was sick about two weeks before the tour started. I came in support of Kent Main, especially with a mountain top finish like yesterday.”

Photo: Tour de Limpopo Stage 4 - Photo Credit: Tour de Limpopo/Andrew Mc Fadden

Clint Hendricks (ProTouch Continental) snuck up on Hendrik Kruger (Alfa Bodyworks Giant) and pipped him on the line to claim the fourth and final stage of the Tour de Limpopo in a time of two hours 51 minutes and 41 seconds at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on 18 May 2019. The victory was almost Kruger’s, who raised his arms early in anticipation of his achievement, only for Hendricks to clinch it away on the finish line. This results in Kruger accepting second place while Jason Oosthuizen (TEG Continental) rounded out the podium in the five-man sprint. For the General Classification contention, Team Dimension Data Continental safely guarded their key man, the multiple jersey holder Samuele Battistella, to secure the overall GC victory at the Tour de Limpop that took place from 15-18 May 2019. The race began with an early break four kilometres in, with Jean-Bosco Nsengimana, Hendrik Kruger, Remi Sarreboubee and Siyabonga Somchiza, with the latter two dropping off by the eight kilometre mark.

“The tour was really good this year, the level of racing was very high and there were more international teams. The plan today was to win the tour but we had our work cut out for us with Team Dimension Data Continental and particularly the Italian Samuele Battistella.” A disappointed Kruger said, “I was in some of the moves of the day, and it was a hard day from the gun. I had no ambition to win the sprint early on, so I didn’t contest it, but I was going for KOM and I needed that gap up the mountain. I tried my luck for the KOM jersey, but I am now tie with Battistella.” “I got into another move to the finish fortunately we stuck to the line, and I made an amateur mistake to celebrate too early and lost the win, so it’s a bittersweet finish for me.” Speaking about the KOM jersey, Kruger added, “I won the KOM on Stage 2 and that opened the competition. I tried on stage 3, but I didn’t have the legs for the finish up Mt. Agatha, so I missed out on that. Today played into my hands again but the competition was quite stiff. I feel better knowing that I gave it my all and didn’t give up.”

RECORD-SHATTERING RIDE BY RAMSES AT 36ONE MTB CHALLENGE It takes a special group of cyclists to sign up for the 36ONE MTB Challenge – one of the toughest single stage mountain bike events that the world has to offer. Yet close to 600 riders lined up in the Klein Karoo on 17 May 2019 to take on the 361km route in less than 36.1 hours. It was once again Ramses Bekkenk who put in a near-superhuman effort to win the race in 13:48:53. Not only did he defend his title for the third consecutive time, but broke the previous course record. Bekkenk described the 2019 edition as by far the most challenging he has experienced yet. His hope of winning the event initially looked dismal as he stood stranded at the start line with a broken rear axle. “I had barely pulled away when I realised something was wrong with my bike. It’s been a long time since I pushed this hard or felt this tired!” said Bekkenk. In a true display of grit, the rider not only managed to repair his bicycle but chase down his competitors to reclaim the lead. The event was by no means reserved for the racing snakes and elite cyclists. The majority of participants shared the common goal of finishing the event – each motivated by a unique reason ‘why’. For Stephen Drew, crossing the finish line brought a fresh revelation to the South African world of amputees. At 60-years old, Drew became the first above-the-knee amputee to ever finish a mountain bike race of this distance. “I knew that 360NE was an impossible task on paper, so we set off and only focused on one hill at a time. We were not afraid of failure, and after 28 hours we found ourselves climbing our last hill into Oudtshoorn! Only if you push yourself WAY past your comfort zone do you actually find what your capabilities are. From now on, the day to day tasks which I once found challenging have now become insignificant and ‘normal’,” said Drew.

Photo: Stephen Drew captured riding through the night at the 36ONE MTB Challenge Photo Credit: www.zcmc.co.za

For riders like Graham Prinsloo, the event was simply a celebration of being alive. Prinsloo has fought a battle against cancer since 2008 and admits that even the possibility of entering an event like this seemed highly unlikely at times. With a medal in his hand that symbolized far more than just conquering the race, Prinsloo commented, “Under what was the most beautiful full moon I have ever seen – I was in cycling heaven. The experience has left me speechless and thankful I’m alive to have witnessed what nature provides.”

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NEWS

GRANT LOTTERING COMPLETES #XTREMESA2019 IM’POSSIBLE TOUR frame Lottering has given himself to complete the #xtremeSA2019, and the fact that he cycled through three consecutive nights, non-stop. No one has ever attempted a ride of this magnitude in South Africa, over virtually every mountain pass between Port Elizabeth and Paarl. The first 200km of the #xtremeSA2019 took Lottering westward up the Baviaanskloof, riding into the first night via the Prince Albert Pass to Knysna, following the Seven Passes Route, which crosses 10 rivers and seven gorges, to George. From there, Lottering switched to his road bike, headed over the Robinson Pass to Oudtshoorn, then back onto the mountain bike over one of the most exquisite mountain passes in the world, the Swartberg Pass, which Lottering reached just before sunset on day two after some 622km. Descending down the Swartberg Pass at night to the town of Prince Albert was the most dangerous part of the ride, before embarking on a 230km gravel stretch across the Karoo around the isolated valley of Gamkaskloof, and through the breath-taking Seweweekspoort Pass on to the Anysberg Reserve to Montagu.

Photo: Grant Lottering - Photo Credit: Max Sullivan

Ultra-endurance cyclist and international speaker, Grant Lottering completed his first South African Im’possible Tour in aid of the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation on Sunday morning 26 May 2019.

After challenging the Ouberg Pass on the third night - covering a tormenting 1000km, he headed north to Touwsrivier. Once on the road bike again, a further three passes awaited him, including the Bo-Swaarmoed Pass and Bainskloof Pass. After passing through Ceres at sunrise on Sunday, 26 May, Lottering arrived at the finish at Reuben’s & Co Restaurant, The Yard, at Val de Vie Estate in the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley at around 10am.

On Thursday, 23 May 2019, Lottering started the #xtremeSA2019 Im’possible Tour from Patensie, just east of the infamous Baviaanskloof in the Eastern Cape, and cycled 1 340km through the Cape, climbing 17 mountains – almost 16 400m – in a single ride.

The purpose of Lottering’s annual Im’possible Tours is to inspire, challenge, and be relevant – which is precisely what he has done in the five Im’possible Tours since his near-fatal cycling accident in July 2013 in Italy. The Im’possible Tour has become widely known for its extreme brand of fundraising, reaching over 21 million people through broadcast and print media.

This year’s tour was sponsored by VO Connect, CompCare Wellness Medical Scheme, Universal Healthcare, Air Mauritius, Mercedes-Benz X-Class and has attracted a vast amount of interest given the unforgiving terrain, the short time

Lottering has shared his remarkable story ‘From death to the top of the Alps’ at conferences in over 11 countries and raised R2 million to date for the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation.

ALAN HATHERLY'S WHIRLWIND START TO THE WORLD CUP SEASON Alan Hatherly kicked off his Elite World Cup season on Friday, 17 May with the Short Track (XCC) at the opening round of the 2019 season in Albstadt, Germany. After a good showing of form, Alan finished the XCC in twelfth place. Entering Sunday’s XCO on the second row, Alan was excited to see what he could do in the Elite ranks. In his first ever short track race, Hatherly showed he had the legs to stick with the top contenders. A strong start put Alan in a good position for the rest of the race as he sat with the front bunch of riders as the pace surged. Following moves, and sticking to wheels, Hatherly kept his calm amongst the blistering pace of the lead bunch. It was until eventual winner, Mathieu van der Poel put in a decisive attack on the penultimate lap, where Hatherly dropped back. Alan crossed the line in twelfth place and would enter the XCO on the second row. Goal one of the weekend had been completed. Unfortunatly the weather did not play along and Saturday night showers brought some indecisiveness into Hatherly’s prerace preparation. “That was the craziest race ever,” joked Hatherly as he reflected on his race. “I was lulled into a bit of false hope as we had no rain during the week, but after seeing the rain we had overnight I started to make some changes for a wet track.” With the U23 and Elite Womens races in the morning before the Elite Men, the course compacted and lost it’s slipperiness. “The course became tacky and fast so I opted for some wider tyres to try give me an edge,” explained Hatherly. Soon after the riders had left the start, the rain came down in torrential fashion and the course turned into a slip and slide. As some of the best riders in the world fought for grip, it was anyone’s game. Alan found himself in around fortieth place but he was not ready to throw in the towel just yet. “With around forty minutes of racing left, my legs came back a bit and I managed to move up slightly, but it was too late for anything significant,” explained Hatherly. “All-in-all, to finish thirty-seventh in my first elite race I am not completely disappointed and I definitely know there is a better result to show for the form I have.” The Albstadt course certainly delivered an exciting first race of the season. Riders and teams travelled to the second stop on the calendar Nove Mesto, Czech Republic where the second round of the World Cup took placed from 24 - 26 May 2019. Alan crossed the finish-line in 8th place in the Cross-country short circuit.

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Photo: Alan Hatherly Photo Credit: Michal Cerveny

UWE KOETTER

Will you RISE or #RidetheHunt? Solo or Team Virtual Challenge. Over R100,000 in Prizes.

Find out more at uwekoetter.com/cycling RideHunt.indd 3

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21/05/2019 10:47:26

MTB

CHALLENGE YOUR PARADIGMS WITH UWE KOETTER

It is this culture of design and innovation that inspired the Uwe Koetter team to launch the #RideTheHunt and Rise challenges. Aimed at challenging our paradigms, not only in terms of what exists, but also in what we create, the competition is about thinking differently and in doing so, finding beauty and opportunity.

The #RidetheHunt challenge is a virtual one (there is no race day as such, but cycling is required). The challenge started in May 2019 and runs until September 2019, and works on a points system. The overall competition winner of the Luxury Tented Accommodation Team Entry to the 2019 FNB Wines2Whales will be announced on 30 September 2019. The second stage of the challenge takes place (during June) on the well-crafted Wild Boar Trails of the picturesque Val du Charron, situated just outside of Wellington. Stage 2 winners will be spoiled to two nights on the highly-acclaimed Wine and Leisure estate, inclusive of breakfast.

Photo Credit: Mark Sampson

The Rise challenge is an individual virtual challenge where riders are pushed to beat their personal bests by attaining the greatest weighted ascent (and to explore)! Whether riders are on a mountain, gravel or road bike, they are encouraged to take the road less-travelled and to push the bar.

Not only do Uwe Koetter Jewellers have a legacy to uphold, but they are constantly proving to be innovative and forward-thinking in terms of their designs and the technology employed to bring those designs to fruition.

Find details of both challenges at www.uwekoetter.com cycling and for more about Wild Boar Trails and Val du Charron, visit www.wildboartrails.co.za as well as www.vdcwines.co.za

NISSAN TRAILSEEKER MTB SERIES The first event of the Nissan Trailseeker MTB Series on 11 May 2019 took place in Guateng and the bar was set high for the rest of the year, with a great vibe for racing conditions. Matt Beers and Danielle Strydom dominated the race throughout the entire day and led to the win at the end. Matt was chased by Philip Buys and Wessel Botha, who were close on his wheel. The three B’s battled it out at the end with a beautiful sprint finish. Danielle Strydom made a breakaway at about 30-kilometres, where she managed to keep the pace and lead steady until the finish. The next event on the calendar is round 2 of the 2019 Nissan Trailseeker MTB Series, and takes place at Buffelsdrift on 29 June 2019. This event also doubles-up as the SA XCM Chapionships. On 6 July 2019 the Nissan Trailseeker returns to the magnificent valley of Hemel & Aarde close to Hermanus for round #3. The area flaunts a diverse array of mountain biking trails catering for all levels of riders. With panoramic views of vineyards surrounded by majestic mountains and glimpses of the coastline, it is no wonder that the area seems like it’s heaven on earth. The Hemel & Aarde routes have claimed their fame from the Wines to Whales and the Cape Epic and need no introduction, but exciting new additions to the routes will ensure a memorable time on the bike for all. Riders can choose between 10km, 20km, 40km and 70km routes on offer. The valley provides visitors with endless opportunities to explore with a variety of different activities to try and new things to discover, perfect for the school holidays.

On 17 August 2019 the Nissan Trailseeker Series stops over in the heart of the Cape Winelands for round #4. The picturesque town of Wellington is a scenic 45 minutes’ drive from Cape Town, with lots to offer to visitors both on and off the bike. The beautiful Bosman Family Vineyards is the perfect venue to host such a fun and family friendly event. New additions to the legendary trails will be unveiled, with challenging and enjoyable features for riders of all skill- and fitness levels. Riders can look forward to an idyllic ride with panoramic views, with 10km, 20km, 40km and 65km routes on offer.

NAMAQUA DAISY CHALLENGE

WEEKEND WARRIOR

Cyclists and athletes can prepare themselves to tackle the ninth consecutive Namaqua Daisy Challenge that will take place at Die Keldery in Vredendal from 10-11 August 2019.

Photo: Nissan Trailseeker MTB Series - Photo Credit: Henk Neuhoff

GRABOUW MTB

As is customary, the Namaqua Daisy Challenge, presented by Ryde Events, will offer loads of excitement and promises to be a highlight on this year’s calendar. This event consists of a local mountain bike and running race with competitive and non-competitive routes. An exciting 5km Colour Fun & Ride are also part of the activities at the event. “Participants can look forward to a clearly marked, safe route, local food, entertainment and the friendliness and hospitality that the people in this area are known for,” says Reinier van Greunen, chairman of the Namaqua Daisy Challenge. “What makes this event even more unique is that it is true to Namaqualand and includes delicious refreshments such as braaivleis and roosterkoek, as well as loads of other typical Namaqualand activities,” Van Greunen said. There will be prizes up for grabs for the first three places per distance, apart from the two fun runs. There will also be lucky draws at the event. “The fun run and ride will again be presented as a Colour Fun & Ride. The rest of the family can look forward to a colourful event full of fun, with real Namaqualand hospitality and a great atmosphere,” Van Greunen added. According to Van Greunen the organising committee plays a vital role. Mutual respect, hard work and dedication are required in the planning of such an event. For more information visit www.daisychallenge.com

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Photo Credit: Weekend Warrior Grabouw MTB

The Red Cherry Adventures team managed to showcase some of the best trails in the Grabouw area during the Weekend Warrior Grabouw MTB that took place from 11 - 12 May 2019 with the race village at the Elgin Grabouw Country Club. Day 1 saw riders tackle a fast and flowy stage between the orchards of Applegarth and into some famous single track for the downhill strava competition. A spectacular second stage took riders over the beautiful Nuwe Berg which exposed draw dropping views of the Elgin valley to all the riders. Sublime single track and fully stocked water-points where on offer as a reward for all the climbing early on. “Our Red Cherry Adventures race village was world class. Fully equipped with 400 3-man tents, 14 showers, chill zone and a beer garden just to name a few of the elements. It really was a family’s day out with Giant bicycles providing a phenomenal demo area and Tru-Cape setting up a family entertainment zone.” “With this being the first ever Weekend Warrior MTB: Grabouw sponsored by Tru-Cape, we look forward to building a strong relationship with our partners and providing even more value for our #WeekendWarriors in the future. We hope to welcome you back at our next event,” - Red Cherry Adventures team.

MTB EXPO

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ROAD

WHAT RIDERS CAN EXPECT ON DAY 1 OF THE CAPE DUO CHALLENGE The most diverse cycling event October’s Cape Duo Challenge, four-stage event that offers riders mountain bike stages, so they can bikes in one race.

in South Africa, is a three-day, paired road and use both of their

Let’s have a quick look at what Day One holds for riders: Bainskloof was constructed between 1849 and 1854, and is considered master pass-builder Andrew Geddes Bain’s greatest work – he built 42 passes in total, many of which remain cycling favourites. From Wellington, riders tackle it just after setting out from the Bosman Family Vineyards, the event’s new home. It is an 8km ascent, but at a kind average of 3.4% with a few steeper pitches in the middle. The reward is magnificent views across the Swartland, and a fun-but-bumpy descent, before the loop through the picturesque but not-quite-flat Slanghoek valley. And then, back to the beast: the north face is 15km long, but these first nine are for free before the tarmac kicks up at Tweedetol. Keep some ammo for the final, steep 6km, though, and for the descent. It is one of the best in the land, for technical riders, but does require some attention as the road surface is bumpy.

Photo: Cape Duo Challenge - Photo Credit: JV Photography SA

You will stop the clock at the Bosman estate on 106km, with just under 1 300m of climbing; a great warm up for the legs, for day two’s 45km Wild Boar Trails MTB stage, which you can read about in more detail in the July edition, or at www.capeduo.com. Entries are now open for the Cape Duo Challenge, which takes place from 4 - 6 October 2019. For more information visit www.capeduo.com

PPA SPORTIVE #5 TO KICK OFF SECOND HALF OF THE SERIES There’s something special about cycling in the Cape during the winter months – the scenery is lush and more beautiful than ever, the strong summer southeaster has disappeared, and the Pedal Power Association (PPA) has some more great events to participate in. The second half of PPA Sportive Series kicks off on Sunday, 9 June 2019 with PPA Sportive #5 that starts at Perdeberg Winery. It uses a 109km route quite similar to the previous Sportive #4, but the route runs in reverse and promises to be even more challenging with an additional 10km in distance added on, as well as 131m of extra climbing. If that sounds intimidating, don’t worry - as with all the Sportive events, there is a shorter 39km route option as well. The shorter routes tend to be fast and flat, while the longer routes offer ample climbing in the ranges of 747m to 912m. The PPA Sportive Series offers the perfect platform for riders on all levels, whether you are a beginners just starting out, a junior wanting to gain some experience, or a seasoned and even elite-level rider looking for some serious competition in the “off-season”. And even if you do decide to push yourself and attempt the longer route in Sportive #5, the panoramic views and speedy descent as you approach Riebeeck-Kasteel on the way down from Bothmaskloof Pass will make the event worthwhile. Photo: Pedal Power Association (PPA) Sportive Series - Photo Credit: Dan Edwards

With four more events in the pipeline for the year, you can look forward to new routes and possibly a surprise to round

up the eighth and final event. Remember that the results from the long routes are used to seed cyclists for the annual Cape Town Cycle Tour and that the series is an Official Premier Seeding event series for the Cape Town Cycle Tour. The short routes contribute towards seeding, but are aimed at beginners who do not yet have a seeding, so it will not have any real significance. Events schedule: PPA Sportive #6: 29 September, Simonsvlei Winery (87km/51km), PPA Sportive #7: 13 October, Perdeberg Winery (101km/51km) and PPA Sportive #8: 1 December, details TBC. In 2019 the series has decided to move away from medals and offer an innovative and challenging opportunity to build a beautiful 3D road bicycle puzzle which can be assembled once the rider has completed all eight of the events. Each individual event contributes a specific design that, when assembled and combined, forms a trophy. For more information visit www.pedalpower.org.za/events

OUDTSHOORN SET FOR ANNUAL YOUTH CYCLING FESTIVAL Eden Cycling will host the 9th edition of the Youth Cycling Festival in Oudtshoorn from 17 -19 June 2019. Due to the upcoming Youth Road Championships taking place 22 - 23 June in KZN the Festival was shortened by a day to accommodate riders that want to participate in both events. The format for the event will stay the same as in 2018 with the events taking place as follow: On Monday, 17 June the Road Race will take place at Highgate Ostrich Show Farm and in the afternoon the Team Time Trial. The Criterium will take place on the Aurial College Circuit on Tuesday, 18 June and on Wednesday the MTB XCM will be hosted at the Quad Club. “The Youth Cycling Festival proved to be a good breeding ground for young cyclists. The event expose the cyclists to the different disciplines of cycling and develop their skills and expose them to racing in their respective age categories. This event will also be an opportunity for riders to do their last preparations for the Youth Road Championships.”

Photo: Youth Festival - Photo Credit: Louis Visser

PAGE 8

For information contact Corné Bence, Cell: 082 324 5410, email corne.bence@gmail.com or visit www.edencycling.co.za

MTB EVENT

EXPERIENCE THE LANGEBERG SCENIC ROUTES LIKE NEVER BEFORE The third edition of the 3-Day Langeberg Link MTB will take place on 20-21-22 September 2019 near the Overberg town of Swellendam, mostly on private land, not open to the public. The extreme beauty of the Swellendam area speaks for itself! 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, makes this an event, one not to be missed. Another reason for having a 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. The Langeberg Link MTB will once again be based at Oudewerf Farm, Kliphoogte 11.8km east from the Swellendam N2/R60 intersection with the start and finish-line for all three days 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. 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 and the event also offers solo entries in all three days, or single days. Route Day 1: Night race - Day 1 will also see an all new ‘night race’. This will be a 4km lap route on the farm, starting at 19h00 where riders will be able to finish as many laps as possible within an hour. Riders will have to enter and exit the barn on completion of each lap in order for timing to be done correctly. Day 2: The second day is a fairly ‘relaxed’ ride and does include some ‘gravel travel’. The 52km, 900m ascent takes the riders mainly on undulating gravel roads, with some off-road sections alongside the ripening wheat. Day 3: The third day will take riders into the Langeberg Mountain and will be more challenging, The 28km, 520m ascent will test your legs along the side of the mountain and across more farm land with scenery that will reward your effort. Although day 3 will be somewhat shorter than day 2, it will be over terrain never before utilized by mountain bikers. Hill Challenge: The third day will take riders into the Langeberg Mountain and will be more challenging, The 28km, 520m ascent will test your legs along the side of the mountain and across more farm land with scenery that will reward your effort. Although day 3 will be somewhat shorter than day 2, it will be over terrain never before utilized by mountain bikers. Services All water points will be well positioned and will be well-stocked along the route on all three days - manned by enthusiastic people from the local community. Timekeeping will be handled by the Great-Time team that captured the times and provided an excellent service in the past, which will enable riders to use their times for seeding for other races. Langeberg Link MTB is a Cycling SA sanctioned event and obtained the required Land/ Nature Reserve access permits. The riders will be assisted by marshals and well signposted arrows on route, a Sweep vehicle and in addition a medical vehicle to provide medical support. Cost Entry fees for the three-day event is R1400 per cyclist, and single stages sell at R500 per person per day, and for the kids under 10, R50 per day - provided they are accompanied by a responsible adult. It should be noted that accommodation is excluded from the entry fees and can be done via www.swellendam-info.co.za. This is an excellent opportunity to bring the family and enjoy the hospitality of the farming community and explore the foothills of the majestic Langeberg range in the countryside near Swellendam on the Garden Route. On-line entries can be done via www.entrytime.com For more information contact 074 457 6777 or visit www.langeberglinkmtb.com

2019

PAGE 9

LIFESTYLE

DAILY DOSE OF INSPIRATION COURTESY OF ROLA TOYOTA

How does Giniel de Villiers stay fit for his Hilux? Mountain biking of course.

When we move, the world moves. Through tiny steps and massive bounds, we push forward into the great unknown. At Rola Toyota, we’ve made it our mission to move people so that they can take on challenges. From personal to profound. A race to win. A hurdle to clear. A ceiling to shatter. It’s in the human spirit to keep moving. To keep reaching for that impossible goal. Who better to give us a little insight into what does it takes to reach the impossible than Giniel de Villiers. Giniel, a lad from the Western Cape now based in Stellenbosch, has lived and breathed motorsport for his entire life. “I grew up on a farm and raced with whatever I could find. It began when I was four in a pedal kart. My dad loved motor racing and he passed it on to me. I then got my start in circuit racing, notably in touring cars before moving onto all-terrain.” He is, undeniably, one of South Africa’s top motor sportsmen - known as ‘mister reliable’. De Villiers may be best-known for his accomplishments in the Dakar Rally. He has won championships in production cars, raced internationally on various circuits and even won a rally, behind the wheel of the Toyota Yaris S2000. The opportunity to compete in the local championship has given De Villiers significantly more seat time in the Toyota Gazoo Racing SA Hilux, in preparation for the Dakar. How do you prepare to get bashed around for days in the toughest off-road racing event while concentrating at 100%? According to Giniel, much of his stamina is thanks to hours in the driver’s seat & saddle. He has ridden MTB stages such as Sani2c, the Imana Wild Ride and raced to Hell&Back a few times (often finishing in the top 100).

Photos of Giniel de Villiers - Photo bottom middle L - R: Calvyn Hamman (Senior Vice President Toyota SA Motors) Giniel de Villiers and Marius Claassen (Rola Motor Group CEO)

“There’s no shortcut - hours and hours of fitness training, and hours in the driving seat. With all my travelling it’s very difficult to stick to a specific training plan. But if I’ve got a lot of time I ride longer and if I don’t, I do shorter interval-style rides,” he says. When something is close to your heart, you take on challenges and obstacles with a smile, when something is your favourite you will keep reaching for that impossible goal. At Rola Toyota, we are challenged to start our impossible by changing our mindset towards providing the ultimate guest experience. We are constantly working on our performance and hospitality to ensure that you can say – There is just nowhere I would rather do business, Rola Toyota is my Favourite! In Celebration of the tougher-er Hilux winning the 2019 Dakar, we have brought back our RED TAG Deals on Hilux & Fortuner. Visit our website for more information - don’t miss out on these slashed prices www.rolatoyota.co.za Contact details Rola Toyota Bredasdorp | toyotabredasdorp@rolagrp.co.za | 028 424 1144 Rola Toyota Somerset West | toyota@rolagrp.co.za | 021 841 8600 #RolaLifestyle #TeamHilux | www.rolatoyota.co.za

INTEGRATE YOUR CYCLING LIFE WITH HUBTIGER

Life, as we all know, can be very complicated. As, unfortunately can cycling. A recreational activity or a means to channel our competitive urges cycling is not as simple as the early marketers of the bicycle had our forefathers believe. From service intervals to route options, weather predictions and road safety; there is a lot to keep in mind before setting out on a ride. That is why Hubtiger should be your go-to cycling life simplifier. Born as a tool to keep your bike in optimal riding condition, Hubtiger is a mobile application with an ever growing array of capabilities. The foremost of these remains the service interface. By linking Hubtiger with your GPS device or activating tracking application it can alert you as to when your next bicycle service is due. The application effectively creates a digital log book, tracks the kilometres ridden and time between services, to alert you to potentially worn components. Utilising industry standards Hubtiger can predict when a specific component will need replacement or simply when your road or mountain bike is due for a tune up. To make life even easier Hubtiger offers bicycle shops with an integrated platform, which links shops on the platform with your phone. This means booking a service is just a click away. Not only is booking a service with a relevant store now easier than ever before but the integrated Hubtiger bike shop platform will provide you with updates on how the service is progressing with in-app messages. For clients without a Hubtiger profile, this is free to set up when downloading the mobile application, bike shops can still make use of the platform’s full suite of online solutions. These include online bookings, calendars, digital job cards, automated communication, point of sale integration and the ability to view details on customers’ bikes down to each component. Ideally though the bike shop platform works in tandem with the Hubtiger application, which is free in the Google Play and iStores. For more information visit www.hubtiger.co.za or download the application from the App Store or the Google Play

SCIENCE

FLEXION WE TEACH, WE REPRESENT, WE TRAIN! Science Flexion Trainers all have one thing in common, Passion for Training, Passion for achieving goals, a passion for bettering your yesterday’s best. A safe non judgemental space where you can come and truly learn to know yourself and how to make the most of who and what you are. Katy 079 6044 649 | katyslab@gmail.com Juan 072 443 6657 | juanmatthee85@gmail.com 32 Piet Retief Street, Stellenbosch

PAGE 10

REALTY

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PAGE 11

THROWBACK

84 YEAR OLD FINISHES SANI2C KAROO KUIERS AT TREK2TEEBUS If the Build it Trek2Teebus, presented by SEESA, had taken place in KZN it would have been dubbed boutique. But its rural Karoo setting meant that the second edition of the three day stage race could more accurately be described as gesellig. With Oom Charles and the Petrichor Adventures team setting the tone for a social long weekend of campfire kuiers the riding was but a small part of the event. That is not to say the mountain biking, which was of course the initial hook which brought cyclists across the country to the Steynsburg region of the Great Karoo, was not fantastic. The 72 kilometre long opening day showcased the local hospitality from the off. Just 28 kilometres into the first stage riders were welcomed into water point one, outside the Steynsburg Primary School by hundreds of cheering pupils.

Photo L - R: Arthur Duncan & Keira Duncan - Photo Credit: Em Gatland

Arthur Duncan, aged 84, has completed the renowned KAP sani2c 3 day MTB race, 265 kilometres of tough mountain biking from Underberg in the southern Drakensberg to Scottburgh on the South Coast in KZN. Arthur is an accomplished road and MTB cyclist, despite only taking up the sport in his sixties. Taking part in the Adventure version of the event was a family affair as Arthur was paired with his 18 year old grandson Keira Duncan, the Men’s 2018 SA Enduro Champ. Son-in law Stuart Watson and grandson David accompanied the two and with strong support from all three, Arthur made it to the finish line at Scottburgh. “It went very well, Stuart and David stayed with us for half the race, and I will be honest, each of them took a turn to help me up some of the steep hills! As the years tick by you lose a bit of your muscle mass but I pushed and persevered and I am so thrilled to get here. This is a very special event for me as its my eighth one. I did the first six sani2c events and I have been fortunate to see it grow from its very beginnings to the iconic event it is today.” “It is very important to look after yourself as you get older, not only with exercise, but with diet as well. It is vital for elderly people to get active in some form of physical activity. For me though I do train really hard, and I do exercise with weights to retain muscle mass. Mountain biking is wonderful and that is where my passion lies; you get to ride and experience places you would never otherwise get to see.” “We are so proud that Arthur and Keira have completed the KAP sani2c together”, says race founder ‘Farmer’ Glen Haw. “Arthur is an inspiration to so many of us and embodies the spirit of sani2c. While we cater for the elite athletes in the Race, we have the Trail and the Adventure versions of sani2c which attracts the full spectrum of rider.”

VAN HEERDEN & SLINGERLAND CLAIM MAIDEN TOUR DURBAN CROWNS

It was a red-letter day for Team Enza as Stephan van Heerden claimed his first aQuellé Tour Durban crown following a blistering end-sprint at the end of an exciting 90km shoot-out, while Cashandra Slingerland’s huge solo effort won her the ladies title. With a route change due to expected strike action on the M19 freeway, the route became a two-lap 90km race from the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium to the Umdloti Circle and back.

Photo: Trek2Teebus - Photo Credit: Oakpics.com

The first stage featured rolling gravel roads and twisting farm jeep tracks; these allowed riders to take in the broad Karoo views. The highlight of the day was the detour past a waterfall. The event’s second stage was the singletrack day. It also included the race’s most significant climb, up the Bulhoek Pass. At the top a view point offered breath-taking vistas over the Great Karoo plains and conical koppies. The downhill which followed provided similar views, for those who took it slowly enough to look up and out at the scenery. For those chasing the trills of an exhilarating descent, meanwhile, the rocky terrain required absolute focus. The final day of the Build it Trek2Teebus provided the longest stage of the race. Aside from the views across the Karoo plains the day’s highlight was the stop at the Orange-Fish Tunnel control room. The tunnel is responsible for making agriculture possible on a commercial scale in the region as it provides water from the mighty Orange River and the Gariep Dam into the Fish River. Both during and after each stage the superb Karoo hospitality defined the event. Hearty traditional meals kept the riders satiated while the option to book for non-riders meant the Trek2Teebus was a family affair throughout. Children and non-riding spouses were welcomed as warmly as the mountain bikers themselves and everyone was encouraged to slow down and take in the relaxed pace of the country life. The third edition of Build it Trek2Teebus is scheduled for 1 - 3 May next year.

WALKERBAY XTREME’S WRAP Participants in the Hi-Tec Walkerbay Xtreme’s inaugural MTB stage race enjoyed wonderful weather, beautiful scenery and challenging trails. After adding an MTB event to the event mix last year, the organisers decided to expand the offering even further by adding a 2-day MTB stage race to this multi-day adventure sports festival’s programme. The Valley Xtreme MTB took place on 26-27 April 2019 and participants covered approximately 52km and 58km on the two days. The routes took riders to the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley on trails that were purpose built for the Cape Epic and Wines2Whales. Participants enjoyed pristine jeep tracks, river single tracks, vineyard trails and awesome views of the magnificent Walker Bay and Hemel-enAarde Valley.

Photo: aQuellé Tour Durban - Photo Credit: Anthony Grote/Gameplan Media

Coming out on top was going to be tough for the Enza team given that they were a team of three, but Van Heerden and the team put together a tactically sound race plan which saw him claim the end sprint. One the second lap a group of five riders including Van Heerden, Thokhozani Mahlangu, Alex Worsdale, Louis Visser and Dylan Girdlestone managed to get away from the bunch and they fought it out over the final 45km for the coveted title. Ceajay Bosman was the first junior rider home as part of the second bunch of riders across the line. In the ladies race it was Cashandra Slingerland who came away with the win. It was a surprising early break from Slingerland that gave her the advantage all the way to the finish. It was a sprint finish to round out the top three with Elmari de Wet just pipping Joanna van de Winkel into second, while the latter had to settle for third.

PAGE 12

Although the field for this inaugural event was quite small, the feedback was very positive. On the Saturday, cyclists who preferred to spend only one day in the saddle could choose between three distances – 58km, 36km or 22km. The Urban Xtreme MTB Criterium Race, an event that combines a short track race with technical obstacles and urban flavour above and through the iconic Old Harbour in Hermanus, also took place on Saturday. It was won by Jarrod van den Heever for a second time. “It is one of the best races in the year,” he said. Local cyclist Tyla Setzkorn won the women’s race.

Photo Credit: CP van Wyk

GENERAL

MTB EXPO TO BE HOSTED AT WILLOWBRIDGE SHOPPING CENTRE IN AUGUST

BLACK MARLIN REINTRODUCE FELT BICYCLES INTO SOUTH AFRICA

Black Marlin is proud to reintroduce Felt Bicycles to the South African cycling market. The American brand - based in Rancho Santa Margarita, California - is famed for its performance-oriented approach to bicycle design. Not only are Felt Bicycles’ road, triathlon, track, mountain bike, cyclocross, gravel, adventure, and electric-assist bikes beautifully sculpted, they also boast a proven race pedigree.

Willowbridge Shopping Centre located in Tyger Valley will be hosting its very first MTB Expo from 2 – 4 August 2019. The much-loved shopping destination has become a gathering place for avid sports enthusiasts and proudly hosts the Wietse Run, ILoveBoobies Run and Xtreme For Kids Cycle Tour. The greenbelt behind the centre provides a beautiful setting for cyclists. Willowbridge is in the heart of the Northern Suburbs MTB mecca which is also home to the country’s largest mountain bike club. With Majik Forest, Bloemendal and Meerendal located only 2 – 10km from the centre, Willowbridge offers the perfect location for a post-ride coffee or beer. The 3-day dedicated cycling event will shine a spotlight on exhibitors from within the industry including the latest mountain bikes, accessories, nutrition, bike trails and more. “We aim to create an event for all to enjoy from granny gears to professionals. Non-riders can enjoy live music, shopping, the urban Slow Market while MTB enthusiasts explore.” For more information visit www.willowbridge.co.za or contact Lizelle@willowbridgecentre.co.za

Felt Bicycles’ first bike was a triathlon machine, produced in 1991. Later that year, Paula Newby-Fraser, the Zimbabwean IRONMAN legend who was raised in South Africa, raced a Felt Bicycle to her fourth world title in Kona. After 28 years of continued bicycle technology improvement, Newby-Fraser’s title of “Queen of Kona” is under threat from another Felt Bicycles athlete, Daniela Ryf. The IA model, which Ryf rode to a Kona bike course record in 2018. It has proven to be undisputedly among the fastest bikes on the planet, boasting six straight IRONMAN World Championship victories. It is not only triathletes who should be excited to hear of Felt Bicycles’s return, however. Felt Bicycles’s FR Disc road bikes are raced by the men’s and women’s Rally UHC Cycling teams at the Pro Continental level. Felt Bicycles’ mountain bikes are piloted at the highest level, too, by the JB Brunex Felt team on the World Cup circuit, and by the Sho-Air TWENTY20-supported 2016 XCO World Championship silver medallist Lea Davison. Kyle Warner takes on the Enduro World Series aboard the Felt Bicycles Decree and Compulsion long-travel mountain bikes, while Max McCullouch uses the same machines to push the limits of his imagination for breathtaking freeride videos. For more information visit www.blackmarlinfast.com

AH-HA - UNIQUE SAN-GUIDED E-BIKE TOUR AND EXPERIENCE

ancient survival skills. This tour will lead you to a replica village where the guide will share San culture with humble pride.” Rides take place at !Khwa ttu Private Nature Reserve on R27 West Coast Road where trails and routes were diligently developed in order to share with our riders the most beautiful attractions. The e-Bike routes are purpose-built with varied single and jeep track that follow the herds of game, pass several water holes and offer excellent views and amazing wildlife encounters. The AH-HA electric bikes being used are very easy to ride, have extremely comfortable seating positions, fat tyres for more than enough traction, are charged via solar power only and offer a truly rewarding and eco friendly experience whilst you’ll also reacquire ancient knowledge in the process.

Photo: San-Guided e-Bike tour - Photo Credit: Dr.Marcus Fink

Enter the fascinating world of The First People and enjoy a unique San-Guided e-Bike tour and experience an unforgettable feeling of freedom while riding effortlessly through beautiful West Coast landscape less than one hour away from Cape Town! “Our unique e-Bike tour is professionally guided and offers a compelling insight into the traditional lifestyle of the San (Bushmen), their culture, heritage and

A San guided beach ride is also offered at !Khwa ttu where the guides take great pleasure in leading e-Bikers to experience the great outdoors first hand and off the beaten track with dreamlike easy riding on remote beach which encapsulate everything that people love about cycling - the adventure, the challenge, the adrenaline fix, but also the fun and pleasure associated with social riding. Tours are customised on request and the route is adapted to meet specific requirement to accommodate all skill levels of cyclists above the age of 12. Duration is 90 minutes and includes a drink. Come and make your own AH-HA memories e-biking at !Khwa ttu! For more information contact 022 492 2998 or visit www.ah-ha.co.za

DARRVIN EBIKES LAUNCHES IN SOUTH AFRICA

Ebikes Africa, a proudly South African company, announces their exciting new range of proprietary ebikes. The darrvin ebike range is available as of May 2019 throughout Southern Africa.

DARRVIN is the result of four decades combined cycling experience of the founders, in the local and international markets, coupled with a professional hands-on design knowledge within the Ebike sector spanning the early years from 2009 right up to the present. Incorporating design and development excellence, Darrvin builds products for the quality conscious buyer, with affordability a top priority. The Darrvin range are built with modern frame geometries including features enthusiasts and sports leaders expect from a world-class product. Ebikes Africa provides a full service and after-sales support capability. “It offers a complete parts desk, that includes spare batteries and accessories with configuration options through our specialised workshop, including diagnostic equipment and expert advice. All components carry our manufacturer’s warranty and full back-up support.” The three models currently available in Southern Africa include a front-suspension, sleek, racy MTB, a Gravel Bike for the off-road racing enthusiast or professional and a city hybrid bike for commuting during the week or leisure cycling every-day of the week! A full suspension platform is in development for the 2020 season. “DARRVIN CONNECT, a fully enabled city commuter that has all the extras you need, but sporty enough to travel and tour any place you can imagine. DARRVIN PEAK, our burly 29er Hard Tail. DARRVIN EVOLVE, a totally unique bike blurring the lines between Gravel and Road. It’s also set up for touring making this the ultimate choice for versatility.” For more information visit www.darrvin.com

PAGE 13

EVENTS

CA2CX MOUNTAIN BIKE TOUR The CA2CX MTB Tour, celebrating its 14th tour this year is a mountain bike challenge that every keen mountain biker should experience. The Tour will take place from 16-23 June 2019 from Cape Town to Knysna where riders will conquer a distance of 695km to arrive in time for the Knysna Oyster Festival. Participants of the CA2CX MTB Tour can participate in the Knysna Cycle Tour MTB or Road event, should they desire. The 6-day CA2CX MTB event will take riders from Eaglevlei 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. The daily route of about 100km per stage consist of farmlands, spectacular landscapes and amazing views with back-up vehicles.

NEW, IMPROVED ROUTES

DESIGNED BY LOCAL CYCLISTS FOR KNYSNA CYCLE TOUR The Knysna Cycle Tour will take place in the scenic Garden Route town of Knysna over the weekend of 22 - 23 June 2019 and is one of the iconic sporting events of the Knysna Oyster Festival. This year the organisers of the Knysna Cycle Tour have announced new, improved routes for their biggest events. Route Manager Andrew Finn said that there is an exciting new route for the longer road race, which is now a 104km ride. “The route will take riders on a thrilling, scenic adventure through one of the most picturesque sections of the Garden Route, revealing stunning views of ocean and beach, mountains and pristine forest along the way,” says Finn. “Leaving and returning to Knysna along the N2, cyclists will experience the Knysna Lagoon, after the first big climb up Kytersnek they will turn off to Buffalo Bay. Then, after another stretch along the N2, there will be some great climbs on the way up to Barrington. The most interesting addition to this race is a brief 2,1km gravel pass along the Seven Passes Road between Barrington and Karatara. From Karatara, it’s fast downhill all the way back to the N2.” The tour’s MTB routes have been designed and are being maintained by a group of keen local cyclists led by Stuart Lightley, Greg Penrith and David Correia who volunteer their time and promote the beautiful tracks available in Knysna’s backyard at every opportunity.

The package of R11 950 per person include accommodation throughout the race at 3 – 5 star guesthouses including all meals (breakfast, lunch packs and supper), medical support, transport of luggage, feed box and goodie bag, back up vehicles, cycling tour jacket, and cycling top. The package excludes: bike service, message package, transport back to Cape Town, transport from and to the Cape Town International Airport and drinks at supper (cash bar). Participants can enter in one of the following groups: 14 - 18kph, 18 - 22kph or 22kph group. Every year CA2CX Tour returns favour by giving back to the community. A gala evening will be held in George on the eve of the last stage with the traditional auction to raise funds for the Herberg Children home in Robertson, as beneficiary for the CA2CX MTB Tour. For more information visit www.mountainbikeadventuretours.co.za

PAGE 14

Photo L - R: Local route and safety managers: Stuart Lightley, Andrew Finn, Pat October, with Corne Botha from Jakhals Events, and Greg Penrith.

Lightley explains: “I’ve been riding mountain bikes and exploring the Knysna forests for almost 30 years and know the forest quite well. I enjoy the more technical type of riding, and actively help and encourage others to improve their technical skills. With this in mind, I have built tens of kilometres of single track, mostly in the Concordia Contours Trails area, to the north of Knysna, near Simola. We have selected a number of these trails for the mountain bike events.” “The end result is that this year, for the first time, our 50 km and 30 km MTB events will take participants along routes created by locals. After the climb up the Simola hill both routes will use single track sections designed and built by these local track designers and builders which will add a new dimension to both events.” “Our official route managers, Corne Botha and Pat October from Jakhals Events in Oudtshoorn will oversee safety, the marshals, and all signage on these routes amongst other things.” The MTB races have all had exciting single track added to the finish sections. Finn says that all the MTB events now finish through Eastford Country Estate and down an exciting firebreak to the stunning Oakhill School purpose-designed track. “Then there’s the last push up the hill through Narnia Farm and onto the Knysna Montessori track and back over the Salt River Farm to Knysna under the N2. Hopefully,” says Finn. Once back at the finish on the Knysna High School sports field there’ll be plenty of entertainment for the whole family and time for cyclists to relax with food from local food stalls, listen to some music and enjoy a beer or two. Online entries for the Knysna Cycle Tour races close on 14 June. For more information visit www.knysnacycle.co.za

TV1341 PEZ Bicycle ad 2019.indd 2

2019/05/21 12:13 PM

CYCLING EVENTS

EVENTS TO LOOK FORWARD TO - JUNE & JULY 2019

Photo: Sylvester Trail Run & MTB Challenge - Photo Credit: Gerhard De Lange

Photo: Tour de France - Photo Credit: ASO/B.McBeard

EVENT

DATE