Into Cycling - July 2017

ISSUE # 8 July 2017

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INTO N E W S PA P E R

CYCLING LIFESTYLE PAGE 5

| JOIN THE CYCLING REVOLUTION! |

COMMUNITY PAGE 7

TOUR DE FRANCE 2017 PAGE 8 & 9

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LIFESTYLE PAGE 12

IT'S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN! VIVA LA TOUR!

Photo: Tour de France 2016, Stage 14, Montélimar/ Villars-les-Dombes parc des oiseaux - Photo Credit: ASO/A.Broadway

The 104 edition of the Tour de France 2017 will start in Düsseldorf through Belgium and Luxembourg to France, where the peloton will face an intriguing array of challenges, with a particular focus on a few steep ascents, across several distinct parts of France and its neighbouring countries. th

Defending champion Chris Froome and challengers Nairo Quintana, Richie Porte and Alberto Contador will find themselves on a route that may favour slightly towards the climbers, but with a generally balanced feel.

The time trial mileage is limited, but so are the massive uphill slogs. Race director, Christian Prudhomme noted late last year that he would like a less predictable Tour de France - the 2017 Tour will spread its GC-defining days across all three weeks, with fewer climbs in total than in 2016, but several especially steep mountain gradients that will force riders to rely more on their own legs than the comfort of a teammate’s slipstream.

Continue Reading Page 9

2017 LAND ROVER RANGE START YOUR ADVENTURE WITH LAND ROVER N1 CITY Test-drive any Land Rover vehicle and stand a chance to win an entry to the Cape Duo Challenge, worth R10 000. Scan the QR code to visit competition page.

Only available from Land Rover N1 City. Visit our website for more details.

Land Rover N1 City C/O of Vasco Blvd & Frans Conradie drive, N1 Motor City 021 595 7100 n1city.landrover.co.za

Ts and Cs apply.

NEWS

FIRST WIN FOR ALL-AFRICAN CONTINENTAL TEAM OUTSIDE AFRICA

INTO

Team Dimension Data for Qhubeka Continental started the biggest race of their season on 9 June 2017, the 7 stage u23 Giro d’Italia.

The 13th of June 2017 marks a significant day on the calendar for African Cycling and our Team Dimension Data for Qhubeka Continental squad as Joseph Areruya won stage 5a of the u23 Giro d’Italia - a 87km road stage followed by a 14km individual time trial in the afternoon.

Up until Stage 5 the u23 Giro d’Italia had already been a massive success for our young African Team. El Mehdi Chokri sprinted to 5th place during the 4th stage and the team also held the lead in the King of the Mountains green jersey competition from stage 1, first with Areruya and from Stage 2 with Nicholas Dlamini.

N E W S PA P E R

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EDITORIALS

Granted that our young African Team’s goals before the race was to win a leader’s jersey and also have a rider finish in the top 10 of a stage, the team was already satisfied with how the week was panning out.

While the team had clearly been racing well against 150 of the best u23 riders in the world, nobody was quite expecting what happened during the morning’s 5th stage.

After some great work by the entire team to set up Dlamini for the two GPM sprints during the stage, he was able to extend his lead in the King of the Mountains competition. The race then came back together for the technical finish, run over two city circuit laps.

Numerous attacks went off the front in the final 15km but the European teams were closing down all the moves, making it extremely difficult for anyone to get away.

After carefully monitoring all these late attacks and not wasting any energy, Areruya saw his opportunity with 5km to go. The 21-year-old Rwandan put in a strong counter-attack and rode away from peloton, quickly opening up a 25″ lead on the main group. The final 3km was all uphill though, with a maximum gradient of 18% before reaching the cobblestone finishing straight.

While all previous attacks had failed, Areruya’s strength and tactical timing saw him ride to a fantastic victory.

This win is the first ever victory by a Rwandan rider on the European racing circuit. It is also the first win for our All-African Continental Team outside the continent of Africa. In the last two stages the Dimension Data for Qhubeka Continental Team work endlessly to secure the King of the Mountains green jersey for Nicholas Dlamini.

As the feeder team to our World Tour squad, Team Dimension Data for Qhubeka, the result also bodes well for the future of African cycling on the global cycling stage.

editor@intocycling.co.za Deadline 12th each month

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INTO N E W S PA P E R

CYCLING LIFESTYLE PAGE 5

| JOIN THE CYCLING REVOLUTION! |

SPORT SCIENCE PAGE 7

TOUR DE FRANCE 2017 PAGE 8 & 9

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LIFESTYLE PAGE 12

PPA DEMANDS SAFER ROADS FOR CYCLISTS

Photo: Cyclists gathered in Cape Town on Saturday 6 May 2017 in memory of cyclists who have been killed or injured on WC roads - Photo Credit: Pedal Power Association

The Pedal Power Association, together with more than 300 cyclists from all walks of life, took to the streets of Cape Town on Saturday 6 May 2017 to ride in memory of cyclists who have been killed or injured on Western Cape roads and to hand over a letter of concern to local authorities.

Rezelman added that efforts to increase the number of cycling paths are applauded but that the PPA’s grievances lie with the seeming inability of the authorities to successfully prosecute the drivers of vehicles who crashed into and badly injured, maimed or killed cyclists on the roads.

Rens Rezelman, chairman of the PPA, read out the cyclists’ concerns to the cyclists attending the ride and the officials who received the letters on behalf of the City and Provincial officials.“In every incident involving a motorist where a cyclist was killed or injured, the 1 meter ‘passing law’ has been broken,” Rezelman said.

“In 2016, 27 cyclists were killed on Western Cape roads alone.”

“Despite witnesses being present and the obvious breaking of various traffic laws including the 1m law in each incident, not one motorist has been successfully put behind bars for the destruction of or taking of another life,” Rezelman said.

Continue Reading Page 4

2017 LAND ROVER RANGE START YOUR ADVENTURE WITH LAND ROVER N1 CITY Test-drive any Land Rover vehicle and stand a chance to win an entry to the Cape Duo Challenge, worth R10 000. Scan the QR code to visit competition page.

Only available from Land Rover N1 City. Visit our website for more details.

Land Rover N1 City C/O of Vasco Blvd & Frans Conradie drive, N1 Motor City 021 595 7100 n1city.landrover.co.za

Ts and Cs apply.

Single Issue: Free Copy I2C_0617.indd 1

Photo: Joseph Areruya

2017/05/28 1:31:18 PM

DIGITAL

Taking you places!

Are you plaining your next biking journey?

3-Day Whale Tour WHEN?

September 14 - 17, 2017 at 4:00pm - 6:30pm SAST

Single Issue: Free Copy

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Where?

Gansbaai, Gansbaai, 7220, South Africa

ROUTE

3-Days of exploring the Whale Coast

Cost

R 7200.00 per Person

We’ve reserved a stunning Gansbaai venue as our base from which we’ll explore the surrounding area during our 3-day mtb retreat.

3-Day Overberg Glamping WHEN?

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Sep 21 - 24, 2017 at 4:00pm - 6:00pm SAST

Where?

NOTICE

Grabouw, Grabouw, South Africa

Article submission & advert guidelines T&C’s can be viewed on our website.

PAGE 2

MOJOmtb is all about taking you to places that you would have never reached, except on a mountain bike. We connect with the specialist Adventure Travel Operators from Southern Africa, as well as abroad to craft exclusive and individualized Adventure Travel Packages.

ROUTE

There is absolutely nothing standard about our packages, and to the end every Tour is customized to the target group’s unique demographics and desires.

Cost

MOJOmtb is in the business of creating unforgeable memories.

3-Days of exploring Overberg Mountains

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

WHO WE ARE

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NEWS

DO YOU HAVE SUGGESTIONS HOW GOVERNMENT CAN HELP SMOOTH YOUR NEXT CYCLE?

DOWNLOAD AFRICA’S TEAM MOBILE APP

Team Dimension Data for Qhubeka is happy to announce the release of the mobile app, Africa’s Team, for both iOS and Android platforms.

Team Dimension Data for Qhubeka, in conjunction with FanHero, have developed a mobile application for all the friends and fans of the African Team. All the latest news, insights and behind the scenes action will be found on our mobile application first.

Those who download Africa’s Team between 23 June and the end of the Tour de France (23 July),will stand the chance to win a signed Team Dimension Data for Qhubeka jersey and a pair of the special edition Tour de France Oakley’s as worn by our riders at Le Tour.

Download for Android: https://goo.gl/rhUcyL IOS: https://goo.gl/TdU6q2

Photo Credit: Lisa Burnell

The Economic Development and Tourism department of the Western Cape government has mandated Wesgro to conduct a survey to determine the size and the impact of recreational cycling in the province.

Wesgro is therefore contacting a large variety of cycling stakeholders including equipment suppliers, route owners, cycling clubs, cyclists and foreign visitors amongst others. Wesgro would greatly appreciate it if you could take 20 minutes of your time to understand the dynamics and impact of the industry on the economy and determine the growth potential of the sector.

To participate in the #CapeCylingSurvey visit http://ow.ly/QtMk30cM0HE

USE OF DISC BRAKES IN CYCLING SA ROAD EVENTS

In line with the International Cycling Union’s (UCI) stance on the use of disc brakes during domestic road races, Cycling South Africa’s Technical Commission reiterates our adherence to the regulations in place by the world governing body.

The UCI has restarted their wide scale testing of disc brakes in the professional peloton to monitor certain aspects with a greater view to introducing it in all levels of the sport.

However, during this testing phase, the current rules remain in place viz; disc brakes are banned in all domestic road and closed circuit racing.

Cycling South Africa continues to monitor the progress of these developments at an international level. Cycling South Africa is not is a position to change those regulations until permitted to do so by the UCI.

CITY’S DRAFT CYCLING STRATEGY UPDATE

The City of Cape Town’s Transport and Urban Development Authority has published a draft Cycling Strategy which aims to increase the percentage of commuter trips made by bicycle from the current 1% to 8% by 2030, and has committed substantial resources over the past eight years to pursuing the vision of a cyclingfriendly city. Currently cyclists have access to at least 450 km of cycle lanes across the city, some of which are separate from the road.

The Cycling Strategy proposes that cycle routes must be safe, secure, direct routes should avoid detours, comfortable and well maintained, provide a comfortable non-slip riding surface, have gentle curves and flat gradients where possible, and the routes must be attractive to complement their surroundings and contribute to a positive cycling experience. Central to the debate is the need for motorists to accept cycling as a legitimate mode of transport.

Residents and interested and affected parties were encouraged to submit comments, input or recommendations on the draft Cycling Strategy earlier this year.

“The City of Cape Town’s draft Cycling Strategy served before the City’s Transversal Committee for Transport and Urban Development for consideration on Friday, 23 June 2017. Once adopted, the item will serve before the City’s Mayoral Committee for approval and by full Council for approval in July/August 2017,” says Cllr Brett Herron, Mayoral Committee Member for Transport and Urban Development, City of Cape Town.

JACKET TO GILET IN 3.5 SECONDS

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The Vindex is available in men’s and ladies’ styles.

Scan the QR code to watch a video showing the latest features or visit https://www.ciovita.com/products/vindex to find out more.

Athlete: Matthew Daneel wearing the Vindex Jacket

CVTA Into Cycling Ad FA.indd 1

INSPIRED TO RIDE

PAGE 3

2017/05/26 10:44 AM

INNOVATIVE CYCLING

CAPE DUO CHALLENGE

KAROO GRAVELGRINDER

TO OFFER CYCLISTS ONE-OF-A-KIND CHALLENGE

A WHOLE NEW STAGE RACING CONCEPT

A first-of-its kind cycling experience aimed at road riders and mountain bike enthusiasts will kick off for its inaugural event in the Western Cape from 5-8 October 2017. The Cape Duo Challenge features teams of two tackling a variety of scenic

South Africa has no shortage of incredible mountain bike stage races and road races to choose from. Most of these races are run in fairly populated areas for the reason that you need a high number of entrants to make staging the event worthwhile.

routes across paved roads and mountain bike track, with the race beginning in the Slanghoek Valley, moving through Welbedacht in Wellington and ending in the scenic Rhebokskloof Wine Farm in Paarl.

The event takes cycling’s two disciplines and brings them together to answer a simple question: Who’s able to conquer both skill sets and emerged fastest overall?

On day one teams split up, with the first rider taking part in a 40 kilometre road race and the second rider tackling 25 kilometres of challenging terrain that will test their mettle with a track that encompasses 800 metres of elevation gain.

Views of the Slanghoek Valley are on full display as riders immerse themselves in a true cycling challenge. On day two, teams ride in tandem across 125 kilometres of paved track. The following morning riders head off road and negotiate the Welvanpas trail. Finally, day four incorporates paved roads before teams hit a surprise detour through the Rheboksloof cross-country mountain-bike trail, with the finish line at Rheboksloof Wine Farm.

A penalty is enforced for teams that finish more than two minutes apart. A portion of the money raised will be going to Ground Level Projects, an initiative aimed at uplifting the province’s underprivileged.

COMPETITION Test Drive any Land Rover vehicle and stand a chance to win an entry to the Cape Duo Challenge worth R10 000. Only available from Land Rover N1 City. Enter online: http://ow.ly/dN2j30cvHOb T&Cs Apply.

For more information visit www.capeduo.com

Infrastructure, safety and logistics at these events are the major challenges facing the race organiser. The costs are prohibitive and to run the event successfully requires a large team of dedicated personnel. These phenomena tend to exclude remote inaccessible places where many of us would love to ride our bikes, unhindered by vehicles and crowds of other riders. Riding with a selected group of your friends and colleagues, but not so many that it becomes impersonal.

“And yes, you want at times to be a little competitive, after all that’s part of the fun, it’s why we train and try to improve our fitness, it’s what motivates us to ride. What if we could race each other in a virtual sense? What if we could decide the time of year we do it and choose who you are going to experience it with? What if we could explore wide open spaces and different terrain each day fully supported by a dedicated team? Racing each other on a stage race, yet overnighting at a central place in luxury accommodation with great local cuisine and wines.”

Photo Credit: Jacques Marais

The Karoo GravelGrinder is your answer, an adventure stage race which runs on a regular basis throughout the year and has an annual leaderboard logged on Strava. It’s not just a race, it’s a social, cycling and culinary experience you can share with a group of colleagues or friends. The routes are designed to accommodate gravel and cyclocross bikes as well, so you can choose to ride it on anything from a full suspension mountain bike to a hardcore endurance road bike.

We’ve settled on around 80km per day for the adventure race, it’s long enough to be a challenge, but short enough to race really hard each day if you so choose. In addition 40km options for social riders on the same routes will be available. E-Bikes are welcome for social riders as long as Strava segments are not logged on them.

For more information visit www.mtbafrica.com/karoo-gravelgrinder

Don’t Miss Out On This Family Mountain Bike Event Mountain bike enthusiasts will be thrilled to hear that preparations for the second Wildekrans Rotary Mountain Bike Adventure are well under way and that participants can expect an even bigger and better ride than last year. The event, staged as part of the popular annual Kalfiefees and seen as more of a fun ride as opposed to a competitive one, will take place on Saturday, 12 August 2017.

Isipani Construction, building contractors and property developers from Paarl, and also the company in charge of the construction of the new Whale Coast Mall that will be opening its doors in November this year is the main sponsor for the second consecutive year.

Passionate and seasoned mountain biker Braam Gericke from Wildekrans Wine Estate who is in charge of the construction of the track promises that this year will see a significant change. “We learnt a few lessons last year and after spend-

ing some time at the drawing board we have come up with a course that we know participants will find not only easier, but also more entertaining,” Gericke quipped.

There will be three trails of 50, 30 and 10km respectively, meandering through some of the estate’s vineyards and offering the most spectacular scenic vistas of the Overberg. Entry fee for the 50km will be R250 and R200 for the 30km while the 10km will set you back R50.

Participants can enter on line at www.racetec.co.za and late entries will be received on Friday, 11 August between 16h00 and 19h30 at the Kalfiefees Tent next to the De Wet Hall in Onrus. For those that were caught napping, the morning of the event on 12 August from 06h00 prior to the start at 08h00 will be your last chance.

For more information contact Johan Augustyn on 083 626 3081

bring your iron horse and come and pedal for a good cause

MOUNTAIN BIKE ADVENTURE 50, 30 AND 10 KILOMETERS ENTRIES www.racetec.co.za

S a t u r d a y , 12 A u g u s t 2 01 7

W I L D E K R A N S W I N E E S TAT E , B O T R I V E R

083 626 3081 ENQUIRIES SPONSORED BY

ISIPANI CONSTRUCTION

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CYCLING LIFESTYLE

MEET DANIEL HODGSON, Bikes Science Exercise Specialist & Sales Person

Name: Daniel Hodgson Position: Bikes Science Exercise Specialist & Sales Brand specialities: Bike Science, Bikes and components, Smart fit

TO ENJOY CYCLING YOU NEED TO BE COMFORTABLE ON THE BIKE. THAT’S WHY YOU NEED TO MAKE SURE THE BIKE YOU BUY IS THE PERFECT SIZE. ASG STORE OFFERS A SELECT RANGE OF MTB AND ROAD BIKES WHILE SMARTFIT WILL ENSURE YOU ACHIEVE THE PERFECT SETUP.

Daniel developed a passion for cycling in 2008 riding MTB which then developed into road racing, competing at the junior road circuit. For the past 2 years Daniel has been developing his triathlon talents with the ambition of competing at Iron Man level. Daniel recently relocated to Paarl and now enjoys spending time with friends and family. He enjoys exploring the outdoors and always has time for a coffee ride and a friendly chat on the bike.

EXPERIENCE IN CYCLING Daniel started MTB in 2008, then a year later started competing in road racing. Daniel has participated in most major SA road events including, SA Champs, Cape Town Cycle Tour, Knysna Cycle Tour and local league events.

For the past 2 years he has been competing in the triathlon discipline and has recently participated in the SA Triathlon Championships.

OCCUPATIONAL BACKGROUND After finishing high school, Daniel completed his Diploma in Fitness (exercise specialist) at the ETA College in George. The course covered Human Physiology and Anatomy to sports science and business.

INVOLVEMENT AT ASG Daniel is the ‘go-to-guy’ for bike sales and bike fitment, not only will he point you in the right direction for your dream bike but he will also ensure your bike is fitted perfectly for you using the Smartfit system. He is also involved in ASG Bike Science where he will be helping with Exercise programs for cycling and triathlon. He will also head up the Startfit system for the perfect bike setup.

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MTB

Trans-Karoo MTB entries have opened Over the last 4 years the Trans-Karoo MTB has built a solid reputation for a ‘bucket list’ event; a tough one-day endurance mountain biking challenge that tests both physical and mental fitness.

To pedal 247 km off-road within 17 hours is not an easy task in anyone’s books, and the popularity of the race is increased by the fact that entries are limited to 500 due to the sensitive eco-systems that the race traverses.

The Trans-Karoo MTB alternates annually between a ‘down’ (Sutherland to Kaleo outside Ceres) and an ‘up’ ride (Ceres to Sutherland). In 2017, participants can therefore once again expect to tackle the daunting drop down the escarpment via the 10 km descent down Ouberg Pass, finishing many hours later on the Ceres side with the 14 km climb up the Skittery Pass.

The quaint Karoo town of Sutherland is home to the South African Astronomical Observatory, the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) and the best stargazing in the country.

It is also one of the coldest places in South Africa. Wikipedia tells us to expect average daytime temperatures in September of 16 degrees, while the temperature can still drop to zero at night. Head lamps, an emergency blanket (“space blanket’), enough water, basic tools and puncture repair kit and medical supplies are therefore compulsory items to carry along, with support being allowed only at two designated points.

In 2013 Timothy Hammond finished the first ‘down’ ride in 9:27, with Hannele Steyn winning the women’s solo section in 10:41 to finish 7th overall, the highest a female rider has finished to date.

Last Chance to Enter

In 2014 Johan Kruger completed the ‘up’ ride in a staggering 9:30, treating the notorious Ouberg Pass as though it was flat. Liesbet Kristafor was the first female in 2014, finishing in 11:58.

In 2015 Charles McFall set a new ‘down’ record to finish in 8:35, while Amanda Brookes was the first female rider in 10:58. No new course records were set in 2016’s ‘up’ ride, with Chris Wolhuter and Elna Fourie finishing in respectively 9:50 and 13:35.Get your entry and start training so that you can be on the start-line on 2 September 2017.

For more information visit www.transkaroomtb.co.za

Steep increase in

2017 Glacier Storms River Traverse

entrants for Spur Schools MTB League

Entries to the 2017 Glacier Storms River Traverse are less limited by the capacity of the event as they are by the capacity of the Storms River Village. With most of the accommodation in the hamlet already booked for the weekend of the 3-6 August, the opportunities to join for a long weekend of bliss in the forests are running out.

Mountain biking enthusiasts from the Southern Cape braved unusually hot weather and dusty terrain to complete the Spur Schools MTB League Southern Cape #1 in Plettenberg Bay.

Dryland Event Management has taken steps to ensure more mountain bikers and their families can experience the Glacier Storms River Traverse. In 2016 Dryland first introduced the popular luxury camping upgrade to the Storms River Traverse, and for 2017 the number of canvas tents – complete with beds, white linen, camp chairs and plug points – has been increased.

Juan Botes, regional event organiser, said riders took-off from the Cairnbrogie MTB & Trail Park on Saturday, full of excitement. A total of 22 schools participated in the event, which recorded a steep increase in entrants when compared to the same period last year.

“We were thrilled by the long list of entrants. We received 172 rider entries this year and 120 last year. There’s been a rather large spike and it shows that enthusiasm for this sport is growing among the kids and more schools getting involved,” he said.

The highlights, according to Botes were when Team Spur’s Alan Hatherly (SA MTB XCO Olympian), as well as Kevin Evans (former SA MTB XCO champion) made their appearance and interacted with the kids.

“Alan chatted with the kids and did a few laps with the sub-junior boys. Kevin’s daughter made her debut as a league rider this year, so he joined the nipper and sub-nippers for their start-up laps,” said Botes.

It’s believed temperatures in the Southern Cape reached a scorching 30 degrees which is unusually high for the winter season. Certain gravel parts of the route were very dusty and added an additional challenge.

Photo Credit: Oakpics.com

The Glamping campsite has also been moved from the Tsitsikamma Village Inn, where the race village is based, to the Tube and Axe Lodge Backpackers four hundred meters down the road. The new site also boasts a dedicated ablution facility, with guaranteed hot showers which riders will love after a muddy day on the trails, which means no more portable toilets and showers.

“It was very dry and hot, we are not used to this kind of weather during winter and it contributed to rather dusty conditions. Riders also had to be extra cautious as the dry gravel resulted in skidding and therefore a few falls.”

The Tsitsikamma Village Inn is the recommended accommodation location for the event, but as the Inn often fills up before entries even open, Dryland Event Management suggest you also visit the tsitsikamma.info website to explore all the accommodation options in the area.

It’s important to remember that the Storms River Traverse is best experienced with the whole family. The event offers an educational day care programme for children between three and twelve, plus a day care facility for children under the age of three. For the teenagers the Tsitsikamma Village offers a plethora of activities from ziplining, to bungy jumping and white water tubing. And because the daily stage distances are under sixty kilometres - riders sixteen, and older, are eligible to take part in the Storms River Traverse under the Cycling South Africa rules.

For the less adventurous members of the family Tsitsikamma also offers hikes, bird watching, Segway and canopy tours or browse the stores in the quaint Storms River Village.

On the bike the Glacier Storms River Traverse is famously social. In fact the route is made up largely of jeep track so that you can ride two abreast and chat throughout the stage. The relaxed pace also means you will have the time to enjoy the full offering at each water point, and along with the Biogen supplements you can expect home-made banana bread, boiled potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, marmite sandwiches, koeksisters and of course Klein Karoo International ostrich steaks off the braai at the final water point on each stage. Entries close on the 15th of July 2017.

For more information visit www.stormsrivertraverse.co.za

PAGE 6

“Nevertheless, everything went according to plan, the track was well prepared and marked by trail builder, Danny Aaaron, the kids were happy, parents were happy and so were the organisers,” said Botes.

Upcoming events in Southern Cape: 29 July (Knysna),12 August (Oudtshoorn), and 9 September (Knysna).

Upcoming event in Western Cape: 5 August (Worcester), 26 August (Durbanville), 16 September (Stellenbosch).

COMMUNITY

First 50 Qhubeka Bicycles

Assembled At Nederburg To Benefit Local Community

Absa Cape Epic donates 5 896 tents to disaster relief

Three neighbourhood watch organisations overseeing safety in the Paarl East area were given the first 50 bicycles built at Nederburg in Paarl, the home of the Qhubeka bicycle in the Western Cape. Nederburg is home to one of two Qhubeka bicycle assembly plants, where bicycles are built. These bicycles are intended for distribution to vulnerable South Africans via various Qhubeka-affiliated community programmes.

Fifty volunteers for the Fairyland, Chicago and Hillside neighbourhood watch organisations are now better equipped to fight crime in their communities. Up until now, patrols were done on foot. Bicycles now allow neighbourhood watch members to cover more ground quicker, increasing their effectiveness.

Those volunteering for the neighbourhood watch organisations received basic training in bicycle maintenance, repair and riding. The coaching was provided by master bicycle mechanics Beverley Roode and Janine Johnson of Bicycles and Beyond (BAB), a non-profit organisation that empowers vulnerable communities through cycling.

The Absa Cape Epic and event sponsor Absa have donated 5 896 of the two-man tents used in the race to disaster relief efforts in the Western Cape. The move follows the devastating fire in Knysna – which have left 10 000 people homeless – and destructive winds and flooding around the Cape Peninsula.

“We are grateful to Absa and the Absa Cape Epic team for this generous donation of the famous ‘Epic Tents’,” said Colin Deiner, head of Western Cape Disaster Management in a joint statement with the Western Cape Government Emergency Medical Service’s Dr Wayne Smith.

“These tents will be kept by Disaster Management and will be available for emergency deployment and distribution in a wide range of potential situations, across the Western Cape,” they said. “We will also make these available in partnership with our colleagues at the City of Cape Town.”

“We have been very impressed by initiatives across the country to assist victims of these incidents and thought we would like to help out,” said Absa Cape Epic founder Kevin Vermaak. “We hope that they can provide temporary shelter to people who have been driven out of their homes by disasters.”

Roode and Johnson operate the bicycle assembly facility at Nederburg on behalf of Qhubeka. The dynamic duo also undertook the training of four previously unemployed women from the local Paarl East community in the assembly of Qhubeka’s purpose-built bicycles. The women, now fully trained, are employed on a full-time basis at the facility. They have set out to assemble a minimum of 150 bicycles, as per prescribed quality levels, per month.

The neighbourhood watch organisations in Paarl East operate with the support of VPUU (Violence Prevention Through Urban Upgrading) and the Drakenstein Municipality.

Take Part in the Qhubeka 5000

The Absa Cape Epic tents are traditionally used to house participants in the race and crew during the overnight stops at the eight-day event. The ‘tent towns’ at the Absa Cape Epic have become an iconic scene at race villages during the race.

“Along with the Cape Epic, at Absa we know that the donation of the tents will certainly help efforts,” said David Wingfield, head of Marketing Barclay’s Africa.

“Additionally Absa has donated R10 million to disaster relief and opened an account for anybody else to donate should they want to.”

PPA hands over bikes to DARG When the 2017 Cape Town Cycle Tour was cancelled less than an hour into the event, the Pedal Power Association organised a new 100 km road event to take place the following weekend, giving a few hundred cyclists the opportunity to get rid of some of the energy and fitness accumulated for the Cycle Tour.

“Given the fires that ravaged the Imizamo Yetho community in Hout Bay on the weekend of the Cycle Tour, we decided to dedicate a portion of the entry fees received for our ‘WACT’ (‘Week After Cycle Tour’) Ride towards a charity in Hout Bay,” said Pedal Power Association CEO, Robert Vogel.

From 14-17 July 2017, join a community of people like you changing lives with bicycles when you participate in the Qhubeka 5000.

Register to ride any distance, on any bicycle, at anytime, anywhere over the four days and contribute to the #BicyclesChangeLives campaign, supporting Team Dimension Data for Qhubeka in their effort to fund 5000 bicycles so that just as many people can gain access to schools, healthcare and economic opportunity.

Prizes: Once you’ve entered the few easy steps, you’ll be entered for the event, as well as being entered to win one of two incredible prizes: A trip for two to South Africa where you’ll spend time with Team Dimension Data at their training camp, or Omar Fraile’s 2016 Cervelo S5 team bike, courtesy of Dimension Data – title partner to Africa’s World Tour cycling team.

Remember to download your race number to print out and wear on your ride!

Find one more friend to do the Qhubeka 5000 with you. Let’s change lives with bicycles together!

To Enter or Donate visit http://ow.ly/AobZ30cGwWB When you fund a bicycle, you help CONNECT COMMUNITIES - #DOYOURPART

In this way PPA was able to hand over seven #Bike4All utility bicycles to the Domestic Animal Rescue Group (DARG) in Hout Bay. Given PPA’s agreement with Qhubeka in respect of bicycle donations, the bicycles were matched by Qhubeka, enabling 14 bicycles in total to be handed to DARG. The bicycles will be used not only by DARG staff and community assistants to get to-and-from work or in their daily commutes, but also to take food and water to abused animals in the greater Hout Bay community.

“It was humbling to see the immense pleasure and gratitude when the bicycles and helmets were handed over. These bicycles will change lives,” Vogel said.

The #Bike4All Project was launched in January 2017 when the Pedal Power Association (PPA) and Bicycle Empowerment Network (BEN) combined forces to launch the “#Bike4All” programme. The programme has a strong, yet simple vision: Put more people on bicycles. The bicycles donated by PPA and Qhubeka are sturdy and robust, perfect for commuting and day-to-day activities.

PAGE 7

CENTURY 21 - TOUR DE FRANCE 2017

PAGE 8

CENTURY 21 - TOUR DE FRANCE 2017

STAGES THAT COULD DECIDE THE 2017 TOUR DE FRANCE Race director Christian Prudhomme comments on the stages

Stage 5: Vittel – La Planche des Belles Filles - It only took two stage finishes for La Planche des Belles Filles to add its name to the history of the Tour. The climb is rather short, however it’s extremely demanding, especially on the final part. The gradients indeed reach 20%. It’ll be a first explanation between the favourites.

Stage 9: Nantua – Chambéry - Even in the Alps and the Pyrenees, climbs with average gradients of close to 10% on their entire length are pretty rare. There will be three on this Jura stage with a total ascending elevation of 4600 metres. The riders will first discover the climb up the Col de la Biche, followed by the unprecedented and fearsome side of the Grand Colombier, known as the Directissime (gradients up to 22%), and will finish the battle off with the Mont du Chat, not on the Tour map since 1974.

Stage 12: Pau – Peyragudes - The longest stage of the Pyrenean stay will be made of an extremely difficult sequence of climbs. As kilometres are covered, it’ll only get harder with the climb up to the Col de Menté, even more selective with the Port de Balès and will become a real agony for the legs in the new final climb to Peyragudes. In the final kilometre, on the runway of the only airport of the Pyrenees, will be a passage at 16% over a distance of 200 metres.

Photo Credit: ASO/B.McBeard

Stage 18: Briançon – Col d’Izoard - It’ll be the final battle between the climbers at the heart of one of the most spectacular and surprising sports theaters there is to offer. A real inspiration for attackers with temperament. From Barcelonnette to the Col de Vars, spirits and legs will be on fire. The last ten kilomeres before the summit of the Izoard are at an average gradient of 9%. The “rendez-vous” of the Casse Déserte will add solemnity to the hardness of percents.

Stage 20: Marseille – Marseille - For the very first time, Marseille will welcome an individual time-trial. A final opportunity to witness a change in the hierarchy and why not see the Yellow Jersey switch shoulders.

Set entirely on urban roads with a passage on the Corniche and by the Vieux-Port (old harbour), the course will be rather flat except for a climb up to the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde cathedral. The start and finish will take place inside the legendary Vélodrome football stadium, recently re-named Orange.

The “Route Du Tour” Label On The Col D’Izoard

Photo Credit: ASO/A.Broadway

Stage 13: Saint-Girons – Foix - Precisely 100. In terms of kilometres, never has such a short format been on the menu of the Tour since halfstages disappeared. It’ll be a total contrast compared to what the riders witnessed on the previous day, but the terrain will be just as favourable for, I hope, audacious initiatives. Dynamism linked to distance will be joined by a degree of difficulty in the climbs: the Col de Latrape followed by the Col d’Agnes and finally the Mur de Péguère and its gradients that can reach 18%.

Stage 17: La Mure – Serre Chevalier - Climbers battling it out for the Yellow Jersey will have two more days to express themselves, to change the outcome or comfort a decent lead and gain precious time.

Heading towards Serre-Chevalier, we will give them the most prestigious of what the Alps has to offer: the Col de la Croix de Fer and then the Galibier back after a 6-year absence, going up the Télégraphe. It’s now up to them.

STAGE

DATE

TYPE

START AND FINISH

DISTANCE

1

July 1

ITT

Düsseldorf / Düsseldorf

14 km

2

July 2

Flat

Düsseldorf / Liège

206 km

3

July 3

Hilly

Verviers / Longwy

202 km

4

July 4

Flat

Mondorf-les-Bains / Vittel

203 km

5

July 5

Hilly

Vittel / La planche des belles filles

160 km

6

July 6

Flat

Vesoul / Troyes

216 km

7

July 7

Flat

Troyes / Nuits-Saint-Georges

214 km

8

July 8

Hilly

Dole / Station des rousses

187 km

9

July 9

Mountain Nantua / Chambéry

R/Day

July 10

Rest Day Dordogne

10

July 11

Flat

Périgueux / Bergerac

178 km

11

July 12

Flat

Eymet / Pau

202 km

12

July 13

Mountain Pau / Peyragudes

214 km

13

July 14

Mountain Saint-Girons / Foix

100 km

14

July 15

Hilly

Blagnac / Rodez

181 km

15

July 16

Hilly

Laissac-Sévérac l'Église / Le Puy-en-Velay 189 km

R/Day

July 17

Rest day

Le Puy-en-Velay

16

July 18

Flat

Le Puy-en-Velay / Romans-sur-Isère

17

July 19

Mountain La Mure / Serre-Chevalier

183 km

18

July 20

Mountain Briançon / Izoard

178 km

19

July 21

Flat

Embrun / Salon-de-Provence

220 km

20

July 22

ITT

Marseille / Marseille

23 km

21

July 23

Flat

Montgeron / Paris Champs-Élysées

105 km

181 km

165 km

For the creation of the “Route du Tour” label, which is intended to become a reference especially for amateur cyclists measuring themselves against the Grande Boucle’s mountain roads, the climb up the Col d’Izoard was heralded by several prestigious patrons.

History and a new label come together for “Route du Tour” - They are not merely roads like any others. The history of the Tour de France has been built on the tarmac on which the riders sweat, struggle, shake and dream.

“The climb up the Col d’Izoard in 1975 was my biggest thrill,” confided Bernard Thévenet to Romain Bardet when encouraging him to get to grips for the first time with this out-of-the-ordinary-ascent, in a training context for the moment.

This chance meeting of some of the sport’s giants made for an elegant launch to the “Route du Tour” label, which this year will be assigned to three climbs on the programme for the 2017 edition: the Planche des Belles Filles, the Col de Peyra Taillade pass and also the Col d’Izoard. On these roads, signposting bearing the distinctive stamp of the Tour de France will be especially aimed at the many amateur cyclists who come to tackle the prestigious climbs on the Grande Boucle.

Photo Credit: ASO/A.Broadway

The Tour de France and the Col d’Izoard - Belgian Philipe Thys was the first Tour de France rider to reach the summit in 1922. Since then, the Tour de France has climbed this pass, which owes its mythical status to the lunar-like landscape found at the point named Casse Déserte, 33 times. The leading climbers of the pack such as Coppi (1949-1951), Bahamontes (1958-1962) or Merckx (1972) have tamed it by reaching the summit in the lead. However, nobody has ever won a stage there. For the first time on 20 July, the Col d’Izoard will host a finish, on the 18th stage of the Tour de France. This unprecedented stage climax at the summit of the pass calls to mind those on the Col de l’Aubisque in 2007, the Col du Tourmalet in 2010 or the Col du Galibier in 2011.

Etape du Tour: become part of the legend - Giving the chance to experience the mythical Grande Boucle on the same roads and in the same conditions as the professional riders on the Tour de France is the promise that has been kept by the Etape du Tour since 1993.

This year, the challenge for 15,000 amateur cyclists from 72 different countries will be historical. On 16 July 2017, they will be heading up the Col d’Izoard for an unprecedented altitude finish (2,360m), four days before the pros.

PAGE 9

DEVELOPMENT

IMPROVE YOUR TECHNICAL SKILLS AT BIKING IN THE BOSCH

Hips don’t lie - Do you use your hips when you take corners or are you steering your bike around a corner with your handle bar? Are you hesitant to corner at speed?

You will be amazed by how much more fun it is to corner and how quickly you can get this right by repeating a simple flat speed cornering technique on an open field like I do at my skills sessions. Be warned however, this might just unleash your inner child as you get one step closer to becoming one with your bike!

Boobs2Bar - Sixty percent of my clients are ladies, so Boobs2Bar has become a famous mantra to get ‘into position’- Chest2bar for the guys. I even distribute ‘Boobs2bar’ stickers which have now become a favourite sought after item for your bike and a reminder of this super vital piece of biking information.

Photo: Joanna Dobinson - Photo Credit: Ewald Sadie

‘Thanks Jo, that was a fantastic afternoon of tuition. I reckon the best biking investment I have ever made for a couple of hundred rand! Seriously people , for the same amount of money that you could just about purchase an MTB tyre, you will never purchase any bit of equipment that will make you go that much faster on the trail, compared to 2 hours of Jo’s tuition….’ Bruce Mead - riding for 18 years ‘ I don’t need to skill up, but I’ll send my wife…’

This is a line that I hear so often as a female skills coach. I understand these sentiments, because many men are less afraid of technical tracks and they really want their wives to join the fun and be less fearful on their bikes! However, I want to encourage ALL riders, whether you are male or female to get yourselves regularly to a reputable skills coach in your area, even if you have been riding for decades like Bruce!

Boobs2Bar is my unique way of getting the correct weight distribution on your bike. Many riders are not in the correct position when they ride down a mountain, we get told to put our weight to the back, but this is only true to an extent, you actually need to get a lot of weight onto your front wheel too! Getting your Boobs2bar is yet another step closer to becoming one with your bike!

Photo: Ariane Lüthi

Drop you heels - By dropping your heels when you are in an attack position, you shift your weight to the back of the bike, apply the boobs2bar mantra and this causes your bike to be centred - all your weight is distributed over the bottom bracket, which makes you incredibly stable.

Fear Out Fun In - This is not only my #hashtag on social media - it’s also the way I live my life! Fear is debilitating. You won’t enjoy mountain biking unless you can overcome your fear.

Photo L-R: Marianne Vos & National Dutch Olympic team

I have 23 years of riding experience under my belt, and I am definitely still learning how to flow more smoothly, jump more safely and ride faster! I read an article recently, on a popular online cycling platform that stated the following: “Skills sessions are the most affordable part of biking ‘equipment’, but the most under utilised.”

I couldn’t agree more, the article went on to say that at the end of the day, it is often just pride that is preventing riders from attending skills training.

This should really not be the case - we can and should all keep learning no matter what your current skill level is. Trust me, a few hours with a coach who is passionate, a skilled rider, and an encourager will help you to understand why you do what you do on a bike. When you break down a skill into understandable ‘chunks’ of information you will find that your biking experiences will not only be much more fun, but can save you a lot of money and pain.

Photo Credit: Colin Hadley

You can’t be less fearful unless you have the right knowledge and input. I am passionate about teaching people from complete beginners who just ride for fun to elite, and world champions who need to get the edge on their competitors.

Come gain confidence, improve your skills and have a whole lot of fun at Biking In the Bosch!

Article by Joanna Dobinson

Here are five things to consider which I always impart in my session:

Photo: Anika Langvad & Joanna Dobinson

Confidence counts - Mountain biking is an extreme sport, we all know what can happen in a split second if it all goes wrong.

You need to know how your machine operates and how to handle the trail with confidence.

Confidence takes experience, and experience can only be obtained by learning how to tackle a particular obstacle and then continue by riding it over and over again. I love exposing clients to obstacles that can challenge them, and with the right amount of encouragement, knowledge and progression, their confidence is boosted in a few short hours!

PAGE 10

Photo Credit: Colin Hadley

For more information contact 074 169 4376 or visit www.bikinginthebosch.co.za

REALTY

PROPERTY INSPECTION TRIP OFFER TO CYPRUS TOUR ITINERARY Your agent will be at your disposal to address any queries that you may have on a 1-to-1 basis, dealing with you in a professional, confidential manner.

TOUR 1 - Check in 18th September check out 23rd September TOUR 2 - Check in 25th September check out 30th September TOUR 3 - Check in 2nd October check out 7th October (It’s full summer, ave. temp 28 – 34 degrees; ave. sea temp 26 degrees) TOUR COSTS a. Airfare to Cyprus: ± R8,500 per person return on economy class b. €200 for the 5 night’s accommodation c. Cypriot visa: (€20 each) Courier fee to get your visa application up to Pretoria Prudent offshore property investors understand that the best way to make a decision about buying a property abroad is by taking the time to view it for themselves.

Cyprus – full member of the EU and NOT part of Greece - represents an excellent investment opportunity and property prices are showing a solid increase.

The choice of where to buy is very personal and the type of property depends on your lifestyle requirements, budget and long term plans.

So whether you are wanting to secure a property for investment, to secure permanent residency or a 2nd citizenship or even to relocate to – we have a perfect home for you!

With an impressive portfolio of over 350 completed projects, every style and location of property is available via Cypriot Realty from seafront and hillside villas to beachfront apartments and townhouse complexes.

The trip is well worth the investment of the airfare & the €200 for the accommodation to see if Cyprus is for you and I just know you will love the social & aesthetic elements of the country. Cyprus is absolutely beautiful!

As my guests you will enjoy VIP treatment, I will show you some of our favourite places; and you’ll get a real feeling of the solid investment opportunities there and of course the prospect to find your new home in Europe.

There is plenty of time to take a few dips in The Med, enjoy the magnificent sunsets and to have some relaxation on the beautiful beaches.

If you are serious about investigating the property opportunities, why don’t you book yourself on a property inspection trip to see for yourself what is available?

We’ll personally meet & greet you on arrival in Cyprus; and we’ll host you at the beautiful 5-star Coral Beach Hotel for the duration of your trip.

An experienced property specialist will accompany you throughout your stay to show you the delights of Cyprus (restaurants, the city, leisure activities, tourist sites) whilst showcasing the properties.

We’ll open your offshore bank account, introduce you to taxation specialists and at the end of your trip, we’ll take you back to the airport for your return flight.

As my guest, the 1st 3 night’s accommodation (including a full buffet breakfast) is complimentary!

The

Buying a home overseas is not only a major financial and emotional commitment, but a decision that can be made easier when you get advice from professionals.

It is recommended that you always check exactly what you are buying before signing any contracts - the cost of the trip across to Cyprus initially to do the groundwork could save thousands in the long run.

balance of your stay will be at a special rate of €100 per couple, per night for a double, sea-view room.

Cypriot Realty tours to Cyprus We are arranging THREE 5-day inspection tours in SUMMER when we will be in Cyprus accompanying clients looking at properties. Why don’t you consider joining us?

Your property inspection trip itself is personalised & you will have your own representative host you in order to make your time both an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

LOGO

Contact us for a confidential meeting to discuss how Cyprus can fit in with your offshore plans – we will assist and guide you every step of the way to realise Your Plan B.

c ypriot y pr iot

Realty

YOUR KEY TO LIVING IN BEAUTIFUL CYPRUS

For more information contact Jenny Ellinas on +27 83 448 8734 email jenny@cypriotrealty.com Visit www.cypriotrealty.com

PAGE 11

LIFESTYLE

Improve Performance In Sport Through Optimized Training

Stellenbosch University recently established a new unit for Neuromechanics (also known as the Human Movement Analysis facility) within the Central Analytical Facilities (CAF) to support a wide range of human movement research in healthcare, engineering and sport.

Neuromechanics is an interdisciplinary field that integrates neuroscience and biomechanics to understand how the human nervous system and musculoskeletal system interact to control movements. Knowledge of how human movement is controlled and organized in different contexts play a critical role in efforts to improve the health and well-being of society in a number of fields.

For example, it can support the development of assistive devices, surgical procedures and clinical services for persons with impaired physical function due to aging, injury, disability or disease. It can also be used to improve performance in sport and exercise through optimized training and coaching, or to improve workplace productivity and safety through optimized ergonomics.

The Neuromechanics unit is well placed to play a leading role in developing this relatively new field in South Africa – it houses state-of-the-art equipment and is staffed by a team of three full-time biomedical engineers. Unlike many of the other CAF units which house large-scale instruments for studying material samples on a microscopic scale and in highly controlled conditions, the Neuromechanics unit specializes in non-invasive technologies and techniques for assessing overall physical function in both indoor and outdoor settings.

The unit’s high-speed motion capture systems are capable of capturing the three-dimensional posture and movement of the skeletal system in great detail during physical activity. It is also possible to assess three-dimensional ground reaction forces or pressure patterns on the feet during standing, jumping, walking or

Photo L: Anthony Clark, Photo R: Central Analytical Facilitiy - Photo Credit: Stefan Els

running tasks. This motion and force data can be combined to perform computational modelling of mechanical loading in individual skeletal joints.

The unit also provides wireless sensors for kinesiological electromyography (EMG: assessment of electrical activity in the muscles) and high-density electroencephalography (EEG: assessment of electrical activity in the brain), as well as mobile cardiopulmonary exercise testing (assessment of heart and lung function). All of this equipment can be operated simultaneously in a time-synchronized manner. These capabilities are unique in the country and will enable world-class student training and more advanced experiments.

The Neuromechanics unit has operated from an established laboratory on the Tygerberg campus for two years, and has just expanded by opening a large brand new laboratory facility at the Coetzenberg Sports Science Complex in Stellenbosch.

This new facility has been custom-built for neuromechanics research and is also one-of-a-kind in the country. Therefore, since the unit already facilitates a diversity of projects from different University departments and campuses (Physiotherapy, Biomedical Engineering, Sports Science, Orthopaedics), it can play an important future role in driving scientific excellence and collaboration between research groups, Maties Sport and Campus Health.

For more information visit www.sun.ac.za/caf

Let Our TRI-Fit Programme Get You to the Finish Line

Why not join the ever-growing sporting trend of participating in triathlons? The feeling of fitness and accomplishment on the finish line is quite phenomenal. The Sports Science Institute of SA (SSISA’s) caring and professional experts can get you there on one of our triathlon programmes.

The 8 or 11-week TRI-Fit courses which are aimed at those who would like to either complete the Freshpak Triathlon (800m swim, 20km bike, 5km run) after 8 weeks, or the Slanghoek Triathlon (1500m swim, 40km bike, 10km run) after 11 weeks.

The TRI-Fit programmes kicks off in August 2017 and include comprehensive pre and post health and fitness assessments, a scientifically designed programme with group sessions both at SSISA and outdoors. Included is a dietary Q & A, an informative weekly newsletter and amazing on-the-spot advice from highly experienced and qualified staff. Typically members attend 2-3 sessions a week and do a few sessions on their own. Members also qualify for special rates at the SSISA Wellness and Fitness Centre.

Previous TRI-Fit member, Rodger Carter enthuses - “TRI- Fit has changed my entire lifestyle. I could hardly do one decent lap of swimming, run more than 3km and was average on a bike. Within 3 months, I competed in a triathlon in scorching hot conditions with a 1,4km swim, 45km bike and a 10km run. I have also lost 5kg in body weight.”

PAGE 12

“ I would never ever have dreamed of finishing a triathlon on my own, but because of a very professional team of experts and their training skills/methods, I could achieve things I never thought possible.”

For more information visit www.ssisa.com/project/tri-fit-ssisa/

GENERAL

SPUR SCHOOLS MTB LEAGUE The Spur Schools Mountain Bike League was launched by Spur Steak Ranches and Amarider in 2009. The initiative aims to provide a level of regional and national structure for the sport at school level, as well as to encourage schools to adopt mountain biking as an official in-school sport.

League aims and objectives are: To promote mountain biking as a school sport, encourage mass participation among school-going children, grow the sport across the country by extending the reach of races every year, and to encourage a healthy, family-orientated lifestyle through mountain biking.

The Spur Schools Mountain Bike league covers 11 South African regions with roughly 45 – 60 races from May and culminate in the Spur Mountain Bike League Interschools Final in October. Races are split into local, regional and national categories. Schools throughout the country are encouraged to enter as many riders as possible to accumulate a large amount of points, awarded to riders in finishing positions in each race. All points accumulated from riders from a particular school are calculated to establish the school log. The winning schools are determined from these logs and are awarded to schools that managed to ride the most laps in the given time.

Fifty Shades of Greyt There’s nothing grey about the annual #GreytEscape, the new stage race kidon-the-block in what must rate as the most scenic part of the whole of the Cape Winelands. Jacques Marais saddled up his #GiantXTC to shoot the route …

And so the ‘Greyton Classic’ MTB Event from yesteryear continues to evolve … First, you had your typical one-day mountain biking ‘Challenge’, with weekend warriors taking on a rough and ready local route. Then, last year, Anneke and Petie Viljoen – together with route-meister Andrew White – decided to expand this to incorporate a 2-day Stage Race.

One year later, and the #GreytEscape has put up its collective hand as a mountain biking festival of note, incorporating a 3-day stage race, as well as options to ride single days as an individual challenge. There’s even a trail run or two for the velo-challenged, and more than enough to keep the whole family entertained.

This year, #GreytEscape was supported by valued sponsors such as the ROLA Motor Group, Helderberg Cycles, Hammer Nutrition and Sportsmans Warehouse, who all helped contribute to the success of the event. Going forward, it will be planned for the long weekend in June, so best you book your spot in Greyton. You cannot beat this classic 'dorp' with its charming Victorian architecture, old-world charm and oak-lined avenues as far as an MTB venue goes. Greyton boasts local wines, kick-ass coffee shops, quirky curiosity shops, mouth-watering delis, and even a few laid-back Genadendal donkeys, to boot.

Individual riders are allowed to participate in the regional races and their points are awarded to their school. Age group categories range from the sub nipper (ages 7-8-years old) in primary school, to junior men and women (ages 17-18-years old) in high school. Laps for these races are determined according to a age group.

The Spur Mountain Bike League Interschools Final wraps up this season on 7-8 October in Magaliesburg. Schools go head-to-head on race day and the race moves away from the individual rider-focus to a team-focussed race. A cash prize of R10 000 is up for grabs, and will be awarded to each school at the top of their age category. The primary and high schools finishing top of the points log at the end of each season are awarded the Region’s School Champion floating trophy.

The Western Cape Spur Schools Mountain Bike Series Round 1 was held at Southey Vines Cycle Park in Somerset West on 24 June 2017. The youth mens race was won by Johann Trotsky, with Rossouw Bekker in second and Michard Meeks in third place, while Mia De Villiers took the first podium position for the youth women, followed by Carla Steyn and Jana Barry.

For more information visit www.spurmtbleague.co.za

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Sprawling along the scenic foothills of the Sonderend ranges on the border between the Cape Winelands and the Overberg regions, you can expect mainly winter rains. Summers are just this side of mild, but mid-winter months can pack a serious punch resulting in muddy trails, icy temperatures and snow frequently dusting the surrounding mountain peaks.

Race Report - This year, #GreytEscape was blessed with perfect weather condi- COST on EFFECTIVE tions on Day 1, making for maximum enjoyment the bike. The first stage kicked off from Greyton Main Street, taking riders on a 65km circular, first along the foot of Bakenskop on the Wreck Route, before winding into the surrounding farm lands. A steep ascent along ‘UFO Hill’ – with sea views towards Arabella – linked the riders onto exhilarating single-track past historic Bereaville and Genadendal.

A rainy Day 2 saw the action then move out to The Oaks Estate, where the stage race riders cranked out ahead of the one-day MTB field, who could choose between a 65km, 30km or 15km routes. This ‘mountain stage’ made for a tough ride of just over 60km, passing through ‘Kootjie’s Corner’ on Oewerzicht Farm along a gritty single-track section. This eventually joined onto a superb loop via the ‘Hemelsbreed’ Sweat Zone and ‘Pine Alley’ onto the steep and tough ‘Nguni Climb’. Grind into the switchbacks past the dam and until you crest the summit for the exhilarating fynbos downhill back into ‘The Oaks’ Estate.

Day 3 does not let up, starting off with the legendary Bakenskop Cobra, followed by a fast and flowing single-track and jeep track combo back into Bereaville and Genadendal. There will be a few hard yards as you granny-gear up the ‘Rocky Horror’ climb, with superb pay-back onto the lekker home run along ‘Luislang’.This last section stands out as one of my favourite route segments of the #GreytEscape, together with the tough Nguni and Cobra Climbs.

It’s a pity the new route section along the right-hand side of Bakenskop wasn’t included, as this is probably the best new piece of enduro trail in the country, but this all in all this is one of the best routes you can wish for.

Once again, Supersport presenter Gerald de Kock was on hand to direct proceedings, from race start each morning until the riders rolled over the finish line.

Best of all, the action happens around the ‘Old Potters Inn and Brew Pub, with their hand-made craft beer on tap right at the finish.

Photograph & Article - Jacques Marais

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DESIGN SERVICES WE PROVIDE | Websites |SEO| Logo’s | Business Cards | Brochures | Kit Design | // Cell: 082 628 5028 // Email: johan@web-rage.co.za or // Info@web-rage.co.za // www.web-rage.co.za

PAGE 13

LIFESTYLE EVENTS

Contre La Montre - a mountain bike race against the clock Berets in hand. Check. Red; white and blue outfit planned to perfection. Check.

French flair. Check. Mountain Bike race over 3-days. Check. Now you’re ready to celebrate this year’s DStv Franschhoek Bastille Festival from 15-16 July, in style!

DStv are the proud partners of this year’s Franschhoek Bastille Festival, adding an extra special offering to the festivities with the introduction of an exclusive fourday hospitality package. Valid from 13-16 July this offering is perfectly suited to those with an adventurous spirit, which promises to be the ultimate Franschhoek experience. Inspired by Joie de Vivre, the “joy of living” a limited number of packages are available to celebrate the joy of living - the French way!

The package includes participation in the Contre La Montre, a mountain bike race against the clock in a ten-segment time trial, held over three days. This is a new, unique mountain biking concept in South Africa better suited to fit experienced mountain bike riders. The package also includes luxury accommodation, access to exclusive functions, all meals as per the programme, as well as a partners’ programme and day activities to enjoy some of the finest experiences available in Franschhoek.

Momentum Knysna Cycle Tour celebrates 30 years The Momentum Knysna Cycle Tour is a one of the biggest and most popular events on the national cycling calendar and a highlight of the annual Knysna Oyster Festival. The Cycle Tour will celebrate its 30th anniversary this year and the Knysna Rotary organising committee will mark the occasion with the introduction of a number of new routes and races.

The Knysna Cycle Tour has grown enormously since its inception in 1987 and now comprises four popular events which will take place on 8 - 9 July, the first weekend of the Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival: MTB events, road races, the SPUR Children’s Tour, and the Forest Family Dam Ride.

The Food & Wine Marquee which festival-goers can visit during the weekend is set against the backdrop of the historic Huguenot Monument. As winter sets in the marquee is guaranteed to keep out the cold yet still offering exquisite views of the mountain. Sample the superb Franschhoek wines on offer or treat your taste buds to the selection of delicious gourmet fare available to purchase from some of Franschhoek’s well-known eateries.

Add the quirky caricature artist who captures your Bastille experience, the popular Porcupine Ridge Barrel Rolling Competition, and a dedicated children’s area, and you have all the ingredients for a fun filled festival.

Adding that extra pizzazz, the village, a hive of festival activities, will be kitted out in its finest French flair, as you take in the sights and sounds of all that’s on offer.

For more information visit www.franschhoekbastille.co.za

WINES2WHALES EXPERIENCE DOES NOT START IN OCTOBER, IT STARTS NOW! The organisers of the FNB Wines2Whales (W2W) Mountain Bike (MTB) Events together with supporting Wine Farms are excited to launch the 2017 FNB W2W Strava Winery Challenge.

“The FNB W2W Strava Winery Challenge is sure to add that much needed fun element to every entrant’s training regime,” says Michael Meyer, FNB W2W MTB Director. “The challenge will run from June to Mid-October, with each month featuring a different Strava challenge. By completing the challenge riders automatically qualify for the monthly prizes. There will be specific routes on each of the following wine farms: Paul Cluver, Oak Valley, Wildekrans and Lourensford. We have not forgotten about the W2W riders that are not based in Cape Town. For these riders there will be a generic challenge that will put them in contention for monthly prizes.”

The MTB event on 8 July is one of the biggest in southern Africa and includes outstanding cycling routes through the Knysna forest. Traditionally the events consisted of four different MTB routes for varying technical abilities - 80 km, 50 km, 30 km and 15 km. This year, the organising committee is changing the 15 km route to an easier, fun ride for all ages, and introducing a 30 km e-bike route.

“By introducing a ‘competition’ there’s an automatic social factor that always adds excitement,” continues Meyer. “Not only will W2W entrants get to experience parts of the 2017 route, they’ll also get to visit and spend some time on the magnificent wine farms that they usually only get to ride through on event day.”

The MTB routes are rated amongst the most scenic in the world and include access to privately owned sections of property that are usually closed to the public.

Set up and managed by Leon Evans, known as Dr Evil, they test the skills of competitors to the maximum.

The challenging 115 km road race on Sunday, 9 July will follow the route introduced last year, which was designed for enthusiastic, competitive roadies. It takes cyclists from Knysna to Sedgefield and Kleinkranz, back to Knysna via Karatara.

The 50 km road race route is from Knysna to Sedgefield and back along the N2.

This year, for the first time, both these races will include a category for mountain bikes with knobbly tyres. “We are doing this in response to many requests that we’ve received over the years from cyclists who want to enter both a MTB event on the first day of the tour and a road race the next day, but can only transport one bike to Knysna,” says Race Director Elwin Thompson. “We are confident that this is going to grow cyclist numbers in both events.”

The SPUR Rotary Knysna Children’s Cycle Tour on Sunday, 9 July is a fun, safe event for children aged 2 - 10. There are three events for different age groups, all starting and finishing at the Knysna Oyster Festival Grounds in Waterfront Drive.

Another new innovation this year will see the popular Forest Family Dam Ride on Sunday, 9 July split into two events: a 20 km and a 30 km ride. Both rides are scenic MTB routes through the Knysna forest and past some of the town’s dams. The 30 km event is for more experienced riders, while the 20 km ride is for MTB riders of all ages and competency, including children aged 12 years and older. They are guided fun rides and will not be timed.

Says Thompson: “We would like to see as many cyclists as possible participating in events on both days of the cycle tour, and our new events and categories will make this much more feasible. There will also be overall prizes for cyclists who enter events on both days.”

For more information visit www.knysnacycle.co.za

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“The W2W experience does not start in October, it starts now. We invite all entrants to challenge friends, better yet, challenge your W2W team mate. Don’t forget about the training program on the event website that was tailor-made for W2W by DaisyWay Coaching Systems. We look forward to welcoming an even fitter field of mountain bikers to the FNB W2W MTB Events at the end of October.”

The FNB W2W Strava Winery Challenge and prizes are exclusive to paid entrants of the 2017 FNB W2W MTB Adventure, Ride and Race. Search for the 2017 FNB W2W Winery Challenges Club on Strava and apply to join.

Dates for FNB Wines2Whales MTB Adventure: 27 - 29 October 2017; FNB Wines2Whales MTB Ride: 30 October - 1 November 2017 and FNB Wines2Whales MTB Race: 3 - 5 November 2017.

For more information on the monthly campaign routes and prizes visit www.wines2whales.co.za/winery-strava-challenge/

CYCLING EVENTS

Around The Pot - Overberg 100 Miler MTB Race The 1000m ascent through the magnificent rolling foothills of the Overberg will be an adventure to remember. The Overberg 100miler takes place on 29 July, and will take riders through the beautifully blooming yellow Canola fields around Potberg through t Cape Nature’s Potberg reserve.

Riders will meet their supporter vehicle or support box at Malgas waterpoint-neutral zone, where riders will have 45 minutes to refresh and cross the majestic Breede river on the only hand driven Ferry in South Africa. With about 1950m of climbing over 100 miles, this fast pace race will really test the participants’ endurance. For the not so fit there will be a ‘Chicken Run’ of 90km to enjoy.

This race will make a great family weekend outing to Swellendam and the Overberg region. With the race start and finish at the Swellendam show grounds and one easily accessible support and spectator point at the Malgas ferry, this will be a logistical breeze. For riders without support vehicles the organizer will offer a support box that will be transported to Malgas. #AroundthePot offers great value for money with beautiful scenery through blooming canola fields, with waterpoints at 35km, 50km, 75km, 102km and 135km. The route mainly consists of fast flowing, rolling hills on gravel roads.

Stellenbosch MTB Challenge

The 12th edition of the Stellenbosch MTB Challenge, formally known as Die Burger MTB Challenge, is set to take place on Sunday, 30 July, bringing more than 5 000 mountain bike enthusiasts to the Winelands.

As one of South Africa’s biggest one-day mountain bike events, it is renowned for its challenging and picturesque routes with six scenic route options to cater for all levels of riding.

With 3 funride routes to the southwest and 3 challenge route options to the north of Stellenbosch, more than 130km of routes are prepared, marked and managed on race day, covering over 100 square kilometres of Stellenbosch and its Wine Route. The routes will pass through more than 50 farms in the area, giving riders the opportunity to tackle some of the best and most beautiful trails in the country, most only opened for the event.

Riders can choose between the following distances: 15km funride for children and novices; 30km funride for beginner riders, 50km funride for intermediate; 42km challenge for intermediate riders, but fitter riders; 60km challenge for advanced riders and 75km invitation race for top riders. Several refreshment stations will be available on the routes.

Stellenbosch MTB Challenge is a CSA Sanctioned event and CSA membership is required to start in the first starting group per distance. Entries close 19 July or as soon as the entry limit is reached.

For more information visit www.stellenboschmtbchallenge.co.za

Photo credit: Sakkie Nel

With 1900m of climbing over 160km this race is for the semi-fit to fit riders, but the 13h30 cut-off times on 102km at Malgas will easily be reached. #AroundthePot is more an endurance than a technical ride, and weather conditions can also play a role to make things more interesting. Finishing the Overberg 100miler at the beautiful Drostdy Museum will be challenging yet rewarding.

For more information visit www.petrichoradventures.co.za

Fedhealth MTB Welcomes New Venue The beautiful Boschendal Wine Estate has come on board as the new venue for the 2017 Fedhealth MTB Challenge from 16-17 September. Mountain bikers of all ages can look forward to the estate’s spectacular, well-designed mountain bike tracks as well as wholesome family fun and gorgeous scenery.

The Boschendal venue promises ample parking and plenty of accommodation in the surrounding area, for MTB families to make a weekend of it.

One aspect of the event that hasn’t changed however, is that it is still organised by well-known sporting events company Stillwater Sports, ensuring that entrants will enjoy all the family-friendly amenities they’ve come to expect from the event.

As far as terrain is concerned, mountain bikers are in for a treat. Boschendal boasts unspoilt MTB trails that include well-maintained single track, mountainside Jeep track and some farm road, making it the ideal venue for cyclists of all ages and skills sets.

Riders can expect some sweet riding, panoramic single track with sweeping berms and table tops.

Founded in 1685, Boschendal Wine Estate is one of the oldest farms in South Africa.

The farm has grown with the passing centuries into a cherished source of wholesome produce, great wines and happy memories.

With plenty of mountain biking challenges, heaps of family fun and a scenic day out of the city, the Fedhealth MTB Challenge is a not-to-be-missed event on the 2017 fitness and social calendar.

Celebrating its 3rd anniversary in 2017, the Fedhealth MTB Challenge caters for MTB enthusiasts Photo Credit: Hayden Brown Photography of all ages.

Junior mountain bikers can take part in the Fedhealth Kids MTB Events, while Sunday is reserved for the more senior mountain bikers who can choose between a ±15km, ± 28km or ±60km route.

For more information visit www.stillwatersports.com

JAKHALS MTB CHALLENGE The Jakhals MTB Challenge will start at Arendsrus Country Lodge with the finish-line on the Oval Stock Car track at the George Show Grounds. The race will form part of the George Agricultural Show, and all riders will have a free entry to the show on 26 August 2017, while family and supporters will have to pay a nominal entry fee to enter. While waiting for riders to arrive at the finish-line there will be lots of activities to experience at the George Agricultural Show. The prize giving will be held at 12h30 in the entertainment tent at the show.

Photo Credit: Cantadora Photography

This year Jakhals MTB Challenge will celebrate its 5th birthday with a few changes for the convenience of the riders. The most significant change will be that the registration and late entries will be handled over two days instead of one day.

Although riders can enter online, local riders can also enter at Sportsmans Warehouse in George. Registration and late entries will take place on Friday, 25 August from 15h30 – 18h00 at Sportsmans Warehouse and on Saturday, 26 August from 06h00 – 07h30 at Arendsrus Country Lodge.

Riders will be able to choose between a 22, 42 and a 62km route. The 42 and 62km routes will take riders through the scenic Jonkersberg Plantation and on their way back they will cross a strawberry and blueberry farm. The 22km route is fast and flat and will also cross a strawberry and blueberry farm. There will be prize money for the overall 1st, 2nd and 3rd rider male and female on the 62km route, as well as lucky draws and beautiful finishers medals to all. Jakhals MTB Challenge will give you great riding opportunities as well as a fun family day.

For more information visit: www.jakhalsevents.wixsite.com/jakhalsevents Online entries: www.cycleevents.co.za/mtb-events/jakhals-mtb-challenge-2017/

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July 2017

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MEET FOOTLOOSE PEDAL ENTREPRENEUR Hailing from Kimberley, Northern Cape, Hennie Terblanche is a sport enthusiast, entrepreneur and motivational speaker, now residing in Stellenbosch.

He loves working with people and it comes to no surprise that he has a successful career as a dynamical motivational speaker and life coach.

His passion is to help others and change their lives dramatically and radically in such a way that is uplifting and positive.

“Why? Because our feet were not stuck to the pedals.”

Terblanche explains that you fall in a different manner when your feet are loose for a quick release to stop the out-of-control bike and for other reflexes to prevent injuries.

He saw the opportunity to develop something that will allow for a quick release.

He had no idea where to begin or how to do it, but applied his life coaching skills of visualisation and belief and eventually obtained sponsors and investors to see the value in his idea. His initial idea was to only develop a shoe, but that turned out to be impractical.

After two and a half years, through trial and error, Terblanche’s idea finally came to life in the form of Footloose Pedals.

Hennie is the sole developer of the pedals - even when he approached the engineering company, he sat with the designer to oversee the development.

Seven years ago he went for a bike ride on one of the many mountain biking trails in the Stellenbosch area. Coming downhill at a high speed the front wheel of his bicycle got stuck and Terblanche was flung into the air by the sudden halt. Because his feet were stuck due to the traditional clip on pedals and cleats, he could not kick himself away from the bike. He suffered a severe neck injury from the crash - the end result being a broken neck, bruises and cuts.

Five years after the injury, Terblanche thought long and hard about that fateful crash and what could have prevented the severity of it. He came to the conclusion that if his feet were loose, he would not have gotten hurt so badly.

“Something that’s really important,” Terblanche noted, “when we were children, all of us used to cycle a lot - to different places, fast, everywhere. We also fell a lot, but our falls were never serious.”

The different pedals created during production was tried and tested by Linus van Onselen, former world masters mountain bike champion in cross country and the marathon, until the final product was approved.

By being true to its name, the Footloose Pedal is a revolutionary breakthrough that allows a natural attach and detach action that allows for a quick release when something goes wrong.

The innovative pedal set builds on traditional pedals, but makes cycling much safer. Take control of your movements with Footloose and enjoy the wonderful sport of cycling fearlessly.

For more information visit www.footloosepedals.co.za

TEN-YEAR-OLD DISABLED CYCLIST TAKES ON KNYSNA CYCLE TOUR Ten-year-old disabled cyclist extraordinaire, Zach Rauch Legward will ride this year’s Momentum Knysna Cycle Tour 50 km Road Race event on Sunday, 9 July.

but I start getting a bit nervous! We have increased his distance to 20 km and he’s doing this easily. Weekends we are doing 30 km and he handles that with ease.”

Zach, who lives in Cape Town, has been cycling for the last three years on a custom-built hand cycle and is the youngest hand cyclist in South Africa.

Zach is registered with Pedal power and Cycling SA. If he completes the race, he will be the youngest hand cyclist in SA to do 50 km and possibly the first in Africa.

He has won Gold in the Outeniqua Wheel Chair Challenge three times, has ridden Cape Town Cycle Tour Junior twice, and recently did the Gun Run.

The Knysna Rotary Committee which coordinates the annual event has given free entries to Zach and his team mates, and Zach’s father Geoff has promised to give him R10 per km completed.

Zach and his support team, headed up by dad Geoff Legward, started training for the Knysna Cycle Tour four months ago, riding a distance of 13 km every second day, which Zach completes in about 60 min at an average speed of 15 km.

Says Geoff: “Downhill we have seen his bike do 50 km,

Says Geoff: “I would like to challenge other cyclists to sponsor Zach R10 per kilometre.

These funds will be given to a charity for disabled children. Sponsorship commitments can be emailed to enquiries@knysnacycle.co.za