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New route a winner for popular MTB race

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A new route which takes mountain bike riders through the scenic Kap River Nature Reserve has doubled the field for the annual Fish River Sun Mountain Bike (MTB) Challenge.

In 2015 there were 45 participants when the two-day event was held for the first time.

This year entries have closed on 115, consisting of 32 female and 83 male riders. There are 39 teams of two and 37 solo riders, according to race organiser Brad Jackson of Mountain Events.

Accommodation as fully booked out early at the Fish River Sun for the event, which is being held on June 18 and 19, according to Stefan Ferreira of the Fish River Sun.

Covering 49 kilometres, stage one now includes a “lot less tar road and a lot more of the Kap River Reserve, which is stocked with wildlife and features some spectacular virgin mountain bike trails,” says Jackson.

For stage two, a 57 km route, “we’ve kept all the good stuff but traded a few kilometres of open gravel road for some more jeep track and single track,” he says.

Families and spectators are welcome at the event, which takes on a party atmosphere at the Fish River Sun start and finish lines, according to Ferreira.

“Riders and their families, as well as spectators not staying at the hotel will be able to purchase meal vouchers and will have full use of the facilities of the resort,” he says.

“What makes the challenge is that it is a family event, with the Fish River Sun catering for the non-cyclists.

“Children can have their own adventure weekend at Kamp Kwena, while the riders and their partners enjoy a relaxing spa treatment, a round of golf or one of the many other activities on offer”.

Both stages start at eight in the morning.

Spectators wanting to see the action close-up can download the routes from the Mountain Events website – www.mountainevents.co.za

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Alan Straton

Chief Cook, Bottle Washer and Broom Mechanic at MyPE
Passionate about Port Elizabeth and definitely NOT packing for Perth. Alan's ethos is epitomised in the words of Nelson Mandela; "I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the idea of a democratic and free society. If need be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die." See more articles by Alan.