Cyclingnews - May/June 2014

VOL 15 NO 4 MAY/JUNE 2014

For the latest news visit www.cyclingnews.co.za

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ONE FOR THE MOUNTAIN GOATS

2014 TOUR DE FRANCE

WAPPO’S PRIDE AND JOY –THE joBerg2c

20 QUESTIONS

WALKERVILLE MOUNTAIN BIKE CLASSICBESTMED SONDELA MOUNTAIN BIKE CLASSICBESTMED JOCK CYCLE CLASSIQUE

FRAME FOR FROOME A BIG TALKING POINT

WINTER WARMERS

TEAM EFFORT HELPS TERPSTRATRIUMPH IN PARIS-ROUBAIX

CHAOSON THE COBBLES

CONTENTS

01Cyclingnews May/June 2014

headingheadingSub header

EditorWynand de Villiers [email protected]

Consulting editorGerhard Burger

ContributorsPhil Liggett, Coetzee Gouws, AndrewMclean

PicturesPhotosport International, Michelle Cound,Frank Bodenmueller, My Picture

DesignCinnamon Graphix C.C.Chris Dawson – [email protected]

PrinterColorpress Pty (Ltd) Ryan Lotter – 011 493 8622/3/4/5

Advertising email [email protected] or phone 083 269 7659

Published by ASG Events 116B, Glen Avenue, Willow Glen, Pretoria. Tel no: 012 751 4130/31/32/33Fax: 086 730 3099

REGULARS

2 From the Editor: Up front and at the top is where you’ll find ASG Events

10 Product Feature: Frame for Froome a big talking point

12 In the Bunch: The valley between truth and deceit

26 Pulse pages: Keep an eye on the thermometer too

32 Product Feature: Safe travels with Scicon soft-shell

35 20 Questions: Wappo’s pride and joy – the joBerg2c

FEATURES

5 Up, up, over and away! A Tour for the mountain goats

14 Team effort helps Terpstra triumph in Paris-Roubaix

18 New role for Isidingo star

RACE REVIEWS

21 Nine out of ten for sani2c champs

44 Home James! as Perry wins Emperors Classic

RACE PREVIEWS

24 Epic champ ready for Zuurberg Trek

29 Dylan aims at third Jock title

40 Bestmed Sondela MTB Classic: Bushveld’s big MTB bash is back

42 Walkerville MTB Classic: Platberg test will separate tough guys and brave men

PARIS-ROUBAIXPAGE 14

FROM THE EDITOR

02 Cyclingnews May/June 2014

Right up front and at the top is where you’ll find ASG Events

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SUBSCRIBEIf you’d like to join our ever-increasing sub-scriber base, there is no better time than now. Simply log onto www.asgevents.co.za and

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AS SOUTH AFRICA’S LARGEST cycling events company (and also our publishing company) ASG Events continually strives to provide cyclists andsponsors with impeccably organised events, presented with passion. With a proven track record of delivering and exceeding sponsors’ expecta-

tions, ASG Events is not only qualified but also uniquely positioned in theSouth African cycling industry (and as part of the ASG group) to meet itsclients’ specific requirements.ASG presents more than 50 events annually, in which more than 60 000

cyclists participate. Through dedication and passion, ASG Events has grownsignificantly over the past years. And because the sport of cycling is still growing significantly, this trend is set to continue.Most of ASG’s big events are among the top ten in their respective cate-

gories nationally in terms of participation and exposure values. The history andheritage of many of these races add to the ongoing support we have enjoyed. We are proud to say these events have become permanent fixtures on the

annual racing calendar, giving them an edge over smaller and new events. Many of our road events also qualify as seeding events for the Cape Argus

Pick n Pay Momentum Cycle Tour, driving up participation. Experience hasshown that these events provide wonderful vehicles for corporate entities toachieve solid exposure within cycling and its affluent participants. ASG offers a holistic and customisable solution to activate brands and

achieves exposure targets. Depending on client requirements we can offer road racing, mountain biking, night riding, 24-hour challenges, series eventsand executive bike tour properties. No other cycling events company boasts a larger or more varied selection of

events, catering for every type of rider. This diverse list of offerings, combined with a proven infrastructure and

access to ASG resources, allows ASG Events to provide a complete and turn-key solution to sponsors. The unique approach to leveraging, which includes focussed PR and social media activation and exposure in television,print and electronic media, has enabled event partners to increase their commitment to these events, without exception.The next important ASG events to look out for are the BestmedSondela

MTB Classic (28 and 29 June), SIDI Online Walkerville MTB Classic (13 July) and the big Bestmed Jock Cycle Classique. I look forward to seeing you on these fine roads and trails.

Wynand de Villiers

For further enquiries phone the race office on 076 621 1807 or email [email protected]

With every Jock medal worn,again a cyclist is born!

DATE: 19 July 2014VENUE: Mbombela Stadium in NelspruitTIMED BY: RaceTec

STAGE DISTANCES:Stage 1: Nelspruit – White River: 43kmStage 2: White River – Sabie (via Spitskop): 45kmStage 3: Sabie – Nelspruit (via Long Tom Pass): 63km

ENTRY FEES:3-stage event: R7202 stages: R4501 stage: R180Spectator Package: R400R10 of every entry is donated to the Cancer Association of South Africa

STARTING TIMES:Stage 1: 06:30Stage 2: 09:30Stage 3: 13:00

ENTER ONLINE:www.asgevents.co.za

ENTRIES CLOSE:8 July 2014

presents

SPECTATOR PACKAGES

Spectators can book a packagewhich will enable them to follow the race in one of the spectator busses and also eat breakfast and lunch with their loved ones taking part in the race. The spectator packages are R400 each (kidsunder 7 can come along andeat and ride for free with

their parent/s)

ENTRIES FO

R

THE 3-STAG

E

EVENT ARE

LIMITED TO

1500

CYCLISTS

TOUR DE FRANCE PREVIEW


SOME EXPERTS SAY this tips the scalesin favour of last year’s runner-up, NairoQuintana. But the only time trial is amassive 54km long and is scheduled for the penultimate day.

Quintana could probably stay withChris Froome on the climbs, and mayeven outstrip him when it becomes reallysteep. But the little Columbian is unlikelyto pack as much punch as Froome is

expected to produce in the time trial. Most observers feel he would have

to take a lead of at least 4 minutes intothat time trial to be in with a shout forthe overall win. >

UP, UP, OVER AND AWAY!

A TOUR FOR THEMOUNTAIN GOATSWith just one time trial and five mountaintop finishes, the 2014 Tour de France will suit the climbers.


With every Jock medal worn,again a cyclist is born!

DATE: 19 July 2014VENUE: Mbombela Stadium in NelspruitTIMED BY: RaceTec

STAGE DISTANCES:Stage 1: Nelspruit – White River: 43kmStage 2: White River – Sabie (via Spitskop): 45kmStage 3: Sabie – Nelspruit (via Long Tom Pass): 63km

ENTRY FEES:3-stage event: R7202 stages: R4501 stage: R180Spectator Package: R400R10 of every entry is donated to the Cancer Association of South Africa

STARTING TIMES:Stage 1: 06:30Stage 2: 09:30Stage 3: 13:00

ENTER ONLINE:www.asgevents.co.za

ENTRIES CLOSE:8 July 2014

presents

SPECTATOR PACKAGES

Spectators can book a packagewhich will enable them to follow the race in one of the spectator busses and also eat breakfast and lunch with their loved ones taking part in the race. The spectator packages are R400 each (kidsunder 7 can come along andeat and ride for free with

their parent/s)

ENTRIES FO

R

THE 3-STAG

E

EVENT ARE

LIMITED TO

1500

CYCLISTS

Words: Wynand de Villiers • Pictures: Radu Razvan / Shutterstock.com

The 101st Tour de France: 5th - 27th July 2014 3,656 kilometres9 flat stages5 hill stages6 mountain stages1 individual time-trial stage2 rest days



But there is no doubt that this year’scourse is one for the mountain goats.With climbs in the Vosges, the Alps andthe Pyrénées, they will take centre stagein the second half of the 101st Tour,which begins on July 5.The Kenya-born Froome fancies him-

self on the climbs. He feels the coursesuits him; that it could hardly have beenbetter designed to suit his talents.“We’ve got more mountaintop

finishes this year, which suit me. And I’m also happy with the time trial”, hesaid at the unveiling of the route.The organisers have thrown in a

section of cobblestone on stage 5, whichalways brings an element of uncertaintyamong the general classification contenders. That is where a mechanicalhitch or a crash can instantly make anend to anyone’s hopes.

The Tour starts in England with threestages between Yorkshire and Londonbefore the riders head back to theevent’s traditional home in France. There is no prologue, which means

three opportunities for Mark Cavendishto bid for stage wins in front of hishome crowd, who will no doubt cheeron Team Sky in their bid for another GCtitle.The sprinters have much to look

forward to in the first half, but after that they’ll be wiped off centre stagewhen the main contenders start pullingthe triggers.It is widely expected that Quintana,

Froome and Alberto Contador will viefor the overall win. All three have trained specifically for the Tour and fornothing else. >

STAGE 10 STAGE 13 STAGE 14

THE MOUNTAIN STAGES

Map & stage profiles: www.letour.com



“Quintana could probably stay with ChrisFroome on the climbs, but the little Columbian

is unlikely to pack as much punch as Froome

is expected to produce in the time trial. ”

STAGE 16 STAGE 17 STAGE 18

The Italians have high hopes for Vincenzo Nibali, who seems to becomestronger every year. But the route islaced with climbs: six mountain stagesand five mountaintop finishes. This maymake things difficult for Nibali, who hasnot focussed entirely on the tour. Sky will certainly be the favourite

team, with two former champions intheir squad, but whether Sir BradleyWiggens will be on the start line remainsto be seen. He rode well in the Tour of California and seemed to be coming intogood form, but there can only be onechief in charge.Froome takes the pressure off himself

when the rivalry between him andWiggens is mentioned, always saying he leaves team decisions up to teammanagement.Some say this could be the watershed

year for Contador. The 30-year-oldSpaniard has failed to perform too oftensince returning from his ban. If he doesnot do well in the 2014 Tour, his careermay fade. The climbs in the Alps will be tough on

stages 13 and 14 – the route excludesl’Alpe d’Huez and the Col du Galibierthis year – but the telling factor will bethe climbing in the Pyrénées. It begins with a 125km stage, ending

atop Plan d’Adet, where the favouriteswill probably be clear. Such short mountain stages are nervous affairs andthe racing is explosive from the start.The final mountain test before the

time trial comes in the 15.8km hors-category Hautacam, presenting a lastopportunity for the climbers to gain a lead over the dangerous time-trial specialists. •CN



CYCLING FANS are eager to see whetherFroome will be on the Pinarello Dogma 65.1Think 2 that took him to overall honours in therecent Tour de Romandie or if the manufacturerswill come up with a few customisations. As the bike that has raked in more Pro Tour

titles over the past year than any other, Froome’sDogma has earned its blue racing stripes and ismore than enough bike for La Grande Boucle.The Dogma was launched in 2011. Some

small changes, most notably with regard to materials, have ensured the bike remains the top choice for teams such as Sky.In a sport where marginal gains are everything

(remember the picture of Team Sky’s almosttransparent kit?) the manufacturers’ first order of business has always been to lower the weightof the frame without compromising safety.This is where Asian carbon suppliers Toray

have been worth their weight in gold.To achieve the required stiffness without

adding more fat, Pinarello worked closely withthe manufacturer to develop a carbon suit thatcan now withstand 65 tons of force per squareinch – five more than the previous incarnation.The retail version of the Dogma weighs in at a

measly 920 grams; still a good deal heftier thanFroome’s custom version.Along the fast-paced and often blurry

development highway, Pinarello have managedto retain their focus on making the Dogma oneof the most adaptable frames in the peloton. For instance, it is equally comfortable in showingoff mechanical and electronic group sets.This may not necessarily be top of mind for

riders in the Pro Tour who enjoy the comforts of bike sponsorships, but it can be a huge cost-saver – and selling point – for the average consumer who is looking to up or downgradecomponents.Pinarello have always faithfully stuck to an

asymmetrical design, but it is fair to say the 2011model Dogma suffered from some aero anomalies. This encouraged the brand to tonedown the shaping on the head tube and extendthe fork crown to join seamlessly; a result thatcreates up to six per cent less drag.The lighter and more aerodynamic frame also

allows the mechanics to choose from a widerarray of components, with the most notable re-curring guest star being Osymetric chainrings. •CN

PRODUCT FEATURE


Team Sky may be thinking about possible changes as they mull the selection of the frame for Chris Froome’s bicycle for their assault on the 2014 Tour de France.

FRAME FOR FROOMEA BIG TALKING POINT

PRODUCT FEATURE


SPECIFICATIONS

FRAMETorayca 65HM1K nanoalloy carbon

FORKOnda™ Torayca 65HM1K nanoalloy carbon1-1/8” ~ 1-1/2” integral system

REAR STAYOnda™ 2 Torayca 65HM1K nanoalloy carbon

BOTTOM BRACKETItalian

FRAME WEIGHT920 grams (size 54)

SIZESSloping 42.0, 44.0, 46.5.

Standard 50.0, 51.5, 53.0, 54.0, 55.0, 56.0,57.5, 59.5, 62.0

FRAME COLOURS742 white red black, 743 black red, 746 BoB,747 red white, 760 black white silver, 762Movistar, 850 FP50 black orange, 852 FP50black white

SPECIAL ORDER COLOURS799 Sky 2013, 812 Norway, 813 England,855 Giro d‘Italia 2013, 856 Movistar 2013,Italian, Treviso, 744 Bianco blue, 761 Nero azzuro, 763 Nero rosso matt, 769 FP50 TDF,770 FP50 TDF, 851 FP50 white red, 853 FP50TDF, 854 FP50 TDF.

“Pinarello have managed to retain theirfocus on making the Dogma one of the

most adaptable frames in the peloton.”

IN THE BUNCH WITH COETZEE GOUWS


BUT LET ME NOT GET AHEAD of my ownstory, which starts at the point wherework and other pressures were getting tome.And, since pedalling my bike is the

only non-chemical method of destressingI know, I decided to do just that. I merelyneeded a plan and, a quick search on the’net later, it was formulated.I stumbled upon a mountain-bike ride

of about 45km from the Woodridgeschool just outside Port Elizabeth and thedistance and venue seemed well worththe expected effort. Those familiar withthe area will know that it is perched onthe edge of the infamous Van StadensPass.The race organiser was Brad Jackson,

whom I had met years earlier. Brad rodeat national level during the sport’s developing years and was quite a star in downhill and cross-country races.He later decided to put his experience

to good use and established an eventingcompany that specialises in rolling outmountain bike races across the EasternCape.Out-of-towners will know him as the

man behind the national cross-countrycourse at Hayterdale, which is wedgedbetween the Zuurberg mountain rangeand the Addo Elephant National Park.Anyway, I phoned Brad the evening

before the Woodridge ride to make sure I wouldn’t be biting off more than myunfit legs would be able to chew. Not at all, he said, there are only three

hills and you will be absolutely fine, evenif you haven’t been on the bike for awhile.Those were the days when I still

trusted Brad, so I was happy with hisroute summary and its difficulty rating. I was rather excited about the few hoursof destressing.The event got under way and I was in

high spirits when we reached the firstclimb straight after the start when ourlegs were still fresh. Mentally, I ticked itoff and was looking forward to thelargely flat course that lay in wait.It was possibly also the last time that

day I had any sense of humour. The next

two hills (and more) came in suspiciouslyquick succession and I realised Brad’s definition of a climb differed from mine.Hours later I was cursing him while

pushing my bike up a monster pass thatled to the finish area. I was cramping sobadly that I could no longer pedal. Later I could not even walk.I ended up sitting on the ground on

the wrong side of the finishing bannerfor five minutes while waiting for thespasms to abate. I was not impressedand would’ve punched Brad in the face ifI could only have moved fast enough tocatch him.Anyway, as pain and grudges fade

with time, I accepted his recent invitationto the dry run of the queen stage (daytwo) of the PWC Great Zuurberg Trek.After all, I was marginally fitter and hehad mentioned something about it beingall downhill after climbing out of Otter’sValley.In reality, the day starts with White

Knuckle DoubleDown, which delivers you into Otter’s Valley. The latter leadsunsuspecting riders to Monty’s Python, aclimb that I would describe as similar tothe drop into the Umkomaas Valley onthe Nedbank sani2c; albeit in the opposite direction.

At the top, one encounters a stretch ofsingle and jeep track called Highway toHeaven, which connects the first and second waterpoints. The scenery is trulymagnificent and it felt as if I was ridingamong the peaks of the French Alps,minus the snow.The catch – there always tends to be

one when Brad is involved – is that youencounter the Three Stepsisters, namedafter three steep climbs, on this stretch as well. However, the reward on top isplain and simply Heaven.According to Brad, it should have been

all downhill from this point.I’ll say nothing other than look at the

names of the following points of interestand make up your own mind: VonHoldt’s Valley of Deceit, Gower’s Gauntlet, Valley of Bones, For Pete’s Sake and Hotel Hill.What I will tell you is that, even at

81km, this is a queen stage in the truesense of the word. It is also real mountain biking and you

will come away a changed person; it is so beautiful.Of course, if Brad is to be trusted, this

stage is sandwiched between two othersthat are all about fun and games.I don’t. •CN

The valley between truth and deceitSome years ago, I had a bee in my bonnet and, yes, I got stung badly.

View of the Zuurberg mountain range headinginto the White Knuckle DoubleDown descent.

MAINTAINING HIS FORM after victories in the Tour of Qatar and Dwars doorVlaanderen, the 29-year-old from Beverwijk became the first Hollander towin the Queen of Classics since ServaisKnaven in 2001. He owed it to a formidable team effort. His leader, Tom Boonen, was at the

front all day and the Belgian outfit finished with three riders in the top ten.Czech Zdenek Stybar took fifth place.

German sprinter John Degenkolb wonthe sprint for second place, about 20 seconds behind Terpstra.Tour of Flanders winner Fabian Cancel-

lara had to be content with third place –his 12th podium in a major classic. The 199 riders started at 10:27. After

several attempts, the traditional morningbreak was launched at kilometre 23, involving eight riders – David Boucher(FDJ), Kenny de Haes (LTB), Andreas

Schillinger (TNE), Michael Kolar (TCS),Clement Koretzky (BSE), Benoit Jarrier(BSE), Tim De Troyer (WGG) and JohnMurphy (UHC). The leaders covered 48.6 km in the first

hour but the peloton then relaxed a bitand the gap reached 9:10 after 50 km.The bunch, led mostly by Omega PharmaQuick Step riders, stayed within nine minutes until the first cobbled sector(8:05 in Troisvilles, km 97.5). >

TEAM EFFORThelps Terpstra triumph in Paris-Roubaix

QUEEN OF CLASSICS


Words: Wynand de Villiers • Pictures: Photosport International

Niki Terpstra was only third on the starting list of the Omega Pharma Quick Stepdream team for the Paris-Roubaix race but the Dutchman held the winner's cobblealoft in the Roubaix Velodrome after surging to the front in a nail-biting finale.

QUEEN OF CLASSICS


“The cobbles soon claim theirfirst scalps. Boonen was among

the first to puncture in the third

cobbled portion.”

QUEEN OF CLASSICS


The cobbles soon claim their firstscalps. Boonen was among the first topuncture in the third cobbled portion. Arnaud Demare (FDJ) crashed as the racewas reaching the halfway mark. His team-mate, Boucher, also

punctured as the riders hit the ArenbergTrench. The French-born Belgian was laterstopped at a level crossing as he waschasing before his former breakawaycompanions. The infamous Trench was merciless

to Milan-San Remo winner AlexanderKristoff, who punctured twice andcrashed before calling it quits. Even pre-race favourite and title-holder

Cancellara had his moment. He tumbledfrom a kerb into the peloton, sending adozen riders to the tarmac. But the Swissrider quickly made it back into the peloton.After Arenberg and a series of flat

tyres, Schillinger, Murphy, De Troyer andJarrier found themselves in the lead. With 75 km to go, Bradley Wiggins

(SKY) looked unable to remain with the leading part of the peloton but the 2012 Tour de France winner ended up recovering well to finish in the top ten.

The breakaway group lost John Murphyand were caught after 196 km by a chasing group including Boonen, GeraintThomas (SKY), Mathieu Ladagnous (FDJ),Damien Gaudin (ALM), Bert De Backer(GIA) and Yannick Martinez (EUC). The six, led by a hyperactive Boonen

and an ambitious Thomas, lost Gaudinand Ladagnous, and were joined by Norwegian champion Thor Hushovd(BMC) and Dutchman Bram Tankink (BEL)after 200 km. The six seemed to have the upper

hand, taking their maximum lead to 50seconds but Cancellara decided to react

with 40 km to go after Sep Vanmarcke(BEL) and Greg Van Avermaet (BMC) had surged. Then it was cat and mouse. Boonen

tried hard to widen the gap at the frontwhile the other leading favourites attackedone after the other to try and bridge it. Unexpectedly, it was Peter Sagan

(Cannondale) who found an opening,chasing behind the break with MaartinWynants (Belgium) before catching them.The Slovak then tried his luck on his ownfor a while, but was in turn reined in with15 km to go by a group including Cancel-lara, Vanmarcke, Stybar and Degenkolb. •CN

RESULTS

1 Niki Terpstra Omega Pharma-Quick Step 6:09:01

2 John Degenkolb Giant-Shimano at 0:20

3 Fabian Cancellara Trek Factory Racing at 0:20

4 Sep Vanmarcke Belkin at 0:20

5 Zdenek Stybar Omega Pharma-Quick Step at 0:20

6 Peter Sagan Cannondale at 0:20

7 Geraint Thomas Sky at 0:20

8 Sebastian Langeveld Garmin-Sharp at 0:20

9 Bradley Wiggins Sky at 0:20

10 Tom Boonen Omega Pharma-Quick Step at 0:20

FEATURE


Words: Coetzee Gouws • Picture: Kelvin Trautman

MBOYA, KNOWN FOR HER ROLE asNandipha in the popular soap operaIsidingo, went riding alongside Bestmed-ASG’s Zandile Ndhlovu in the challengingNedbank sani2c in KwaZulu-Natal fromMay 15 to 17.Although relatively new to mountain

biking, Mboya had proven that she wasup for the challenge having already completed this year’s Cape Epic. “I started riding only last year, but I’ve

always been active and I love a challengethat pushes me to my limits. When I wasinvited to compete in the Epic, I couldnot turn down the opportunity,” saidMboya, who was hooked from the firstmoment in the saddle.“In a way, the sport echoes life. In

mountain biking you have to conquerdifferent terrains, and life is about that.You also have to change gears from timeto time, just as you would in everyday life.“Life also dishes up its fair share of

steep hills, but, once you are at the top,a beautiful downhill awaits.” Mboya and Ndhlovu had an

immediate connection after meeting ona training ride last year.So, when Bestmed-ASG team

manager Owen Botha started scoutingsuitable candidates to partner Ndhlovu onmultistage events such as the Nedbanksani2c, Mboya was a natural choice.“She is such an amazing spirit,

with the most infectious laugh,” saidNdhlovu, who had conquered the270km race from Underberg to Scottburgh last year. “We always havefun on the bike.” Botha, who rode support for the

women, had high hopes for them.“Zandile and Hlubi are motivated andhard-working individuals, and a good fit. Idon’t expect them to have any problems.” Mboya, who put in eight months of

rigorous training for this year’s race, was

equally positive. “I’ve spent many hoursin the saddle, so I’m ready to race.”The 36-year-old actress is no stranger

to adventure. On International Women’sDay in March, she summited Mount Kilimanjaro as part of an all-femalegroup supported by the United Nations.“Our aim was to highlight the

importance of women’s rights and education. By doing this, I wanted to say to every African girl she is able toconquer her own mountains through education.”Attempting these challenges for

causes have become a recurring themefor Mboya. At the Epic, she raised fundsfor the Diepsloot Mountain Biking Academy, which empowers underprivi-leged youngsters with basic learning and life skills.Through sani2c, Mboya hoped to

inspire young women to overcome theirfear of failure. •CN

New rolefor Isidingo starIt was lights, camera and action for small-screen star Hlubi Mboya; not in front of thecameras, but as a rider in the world’s biggest mountain-bike stage race.

“In a way, the sport echoes life.In mountain biking you have to

conquer different terrains, and

life is about that.”

DATE: 28 and 29 June 2014 TIMES: Saturday – 40km: 8:00; 20km: 11:00. Sunday – 60km: 9:00

Kiddies Rides: Saturday from 13:00 DISTANCES: 60km, 40km 20km, kiddie’s rides (500m 3-5 year-olds; 5km 6-8 year-olds)

ENTRY FEES: 60km: R190, 40km: R170, 20km: R130, Kiddies rides: R50COMBINED ENTRIES: 20km and 60km: R280; 40km and 60km: R320

Entries and further information on www.asgevents.co.zaFor bookings at Sondela on 014 736 8900 or email [email protected]. Further info on Sondela and directions www.sondela.com

THE BUSHVELD’S BIG MTB BASH

IS BACK!

MOUNTAIN BIKEClassic




ONLINE

ENTRIES:

www.asgevent

s.co.za

ONLINE ENTRIES

CLOSE:

22 June 2014

RACE REVIEW


AFTER THREE DAYS of racing throughKwaZulu-Natal, the FedGroup-Itec pair finished fifth on the 85km final stage totake overall victory on the beach at theSouth Coast resort town.Old Mutual joBerg2c winners Gawie

Combrinck and Johann Rabie, riding in thecolours of EAI South Africa, secured the runner-up spot.Kargo Pro’s young cross-country special-

ists Rourke Croeser and Travis Walker impressed in a rare stage racing appearanceto finish on the bottom step of the podium.It was Evans’s sixth triumph in the 265km

paired stage race – the largest of its kind inthe world – and Knox’s third.“So that’s nine wins from 10 events,

which is pretty special,” said Evans, who is starting to find his form with his new partner after a rocky first half to the season.

He and Knox won the first two stages totake a comfortable three-and-a-half-minutelead into the final day.“It’s been a while coming but the form

is there and it’s the start of good things.”The two will next turn their attentions to

the national marathon championships inPietermaritzburg on June 8 with the hope ofmaking the cut for the world champs at thesame venue three weeks later.In the mixed category, RECM’s Ariane

Kleinhans sealed her fourth straight victoryalbeit alongside new partner Lourens Luus.

Kleinhans, whose husband Erik crashedout of the men’s race on day two with atorn shoulder joint, said she was verypleased with how smoothly her team’s race had played out.“Lourens was really strong, sitting at the

front all day. I know I can trust his wheel and he knows how to ride technical stuff.” >

Nine out of tenfor sani2c champs

Multiple former winners Kevin Evans and Max Knox combined their formidable firepower to win the 10th Nedbank sani2c mountain bike race from Underberg to Scottburgh in May.

Words: Coetzee Gouws • Picture: Full Stop Communication

Sasol Racing’s Yolande de Villiers andJohan Labuschagne followed them home to take second overall in front of Igna deVilliers and Dalene van der Leek ofLGE/Midas/Bells Cycling.South African marathon champion Robyn

de Groot and Sweden’s Jennie Stenerhag,racing for Biogen Toyota-Cape BrewingCompany, notched up their maiden victoryin the women’s event.Yolande Speedy and Yolandi Du Toit of

Garmin-ASG were runners-up, with thirdplace going to the Baeti duo of NatalieBergstrom and Tammy Visagie.“It was our first race together and it went

really well,” said De Groot. “We both hadgood and bad days but that’s what team-work’s all about.”“It was an awesome race and I’d love

to come back year after year,” added Stenerhag.Someone who will not be returning is

FedGroup-Itec’s Neil MacDonald, who an-nounced his retirement during the event.“I’ve always liked this race and I’ve had

some good results here. Some things havecome up and I just decided that now wasthe decisive moment to bow out.”Former roadie MacDonald, 37, said he

would continue to be involved in variousbusiness ventures related to cycling.

“I thought about it long and hard and Ihave quite a lot to offer, especially to theyounger generation. Cycling’s given me somuch over the years, it’s only right to givesomething back.”Giving back is something that the

Nedbank sani2c has certainly perfected in its first decade of existence.The community-based model on which

the event operates has raised more than

R20 million for schools and organisationsalong the route.And, according to an independent study

by the department of tourism, the eventhas generated an estimated R74 million ineconomic spin-offs for the region.Visit www.sani2c.co.za for more

information. Alternatively, follow@sani2c_scoop or find the race on Facebook. •CN

RACE REVIEW


Picture: Kelvin Trautman

Picture: Kelvin TrautmanPicture: Darren Goddard - Cycho Media

RESULTS

MEN1 Kevin Evans & Max Knox (FedGroup-Itec) 8:57:45

2 Gawie Combrinck & Johann Rabie (EAI South Africa) 9:01:08

3 Rourke Croeser & Travis Walker (Kargo Pro) 9:05:21

4 Andrew Hill & Darren Lill (Red-E/TIB) 9:05:48

5 Arno du Toit & Brendon Davids (Trek Racing) 9:15:50

WOMEN1 Jennie Stenerhag & Robyn de Groot (Biogen Toyota-Cape Brewing) 10:36:26

2 Yolande Speedy & Yolandi du Toit (Garmin-ASG) 11:29:04

3 Natalie Bergstrom & Tammy Visagie (Baeti) 11:57:40

MIXED1 Ariane Kleinhans & Lourens Luus (RECM) 9:49:56

2 Yolande de Villiers & Johan Labuschagne (Sasol Racing) 10:25:28

3 Igna de Villiers & Dalene van der Leek (Lge/Midas/Bells Racing) 10:45:18

MCLEAN AND TEAMMATE Bruce Dieselwill be part of an exclusive field for thethree-day mountain-bike stage race,which, he says, has the potential to become one of the iconic events in theprovince.“It’s absolutely essential for the growth

of the sport and it’s a wonderful part ofthe country to ride in,” says Mclean, whois chief executive officer of a cycling retailchain and host of the popular SupercyclingTV show.“Each region in the country has its

signature event. KwaZulu-Natal has thesani2c, the Western Cape hasWines2Whales and now the Eastern Cape has the Great Zuurberg Trek.”The race offers 200km of challenging

riding through diverse scenery, includingthe Addo Elephant National Park, the citrusorchards of the Sundays River Valley andthe Zuurberg Mountains overlooking theGreat Karoo.The riders start and finish each day at

the Zuurberg Mountain Village andovernight at the resort and adjacent camping ground.

Mclean says the importance of buildingsuch events is that the main event andpossible spin-offs have the potential togenerate economic benefits for the region.“If I can be a small part of that, I’m very

happy; hopefully we can see it grow intoanother sani2c.” The latter is regarded asthe largest race of its kind in the world.The 49-year-old, who won the masters

category at the KwaZulu-Natal event in2010, has been recovering from illness heexperienced during this month’s Nedbanksani2c.He was in excellent form earlier in the

season, finishing 15th overall at the CapeEpic alongside German partner Heinz Zoerweg. “I definitely won’t be as good as I was

at Epic. It’s hard to keep that kind of condition anyway, even if you’re healthy,”he said recently.“Since then I’ve picked up a bug and

had a bit of downtime. At sani I really battled, so I’m hoping that I’ll be fit andhealthy again by next weekend.”Mclean is particularly looking forward to

riding the Hayterdale Trails section on day

three, where he won the national cross-country title in his age group.“At the national champs we got to ride

only a small piece of it because we didlaps, so I’m looking forward to riding moreof those trails.”The queen stage on day two, which

includes over 2 000 metres of climbing,would be more likely to determine the outcome of the race, he added.He and Diesel, his training partner, have

done many stage races and “hundreds ofthousands of kilometres” together. Amongtheir shared successes were victories atsani2c (veterans) and the Panorama (overall) road tour in 2009.They are set to be among the strongest

contenders at the Eastern Cape race,which offers a total prize purse of R50 000.“Bruce is very strong and we know how

to look after and get the best out of eachother,” said Mclean.“If one of us is having a bad day, we

know what we need to do to make surewe get to the finish as fast as possible butwithout hurting our partner.”Enter online at

www.greatzuurbergtrek.co.za or followthe event on @zuurbergtrekker and Facebook. •CN

Epic champ readyfor Zuurberg Trek

FEATURE


Words: Coetzee Gouws • Picture: Sportograf

Well-known television presenter and Cape Epic champion in the grand masters category Andrew Mclean will be on the start line of the PwC Great Zuurberg Trek, which begins near Addo just outside Port Elizabeth on May 30.

Supercycling presenter and tripleCape Epic champion in his age group,Andrew Mclean, will participate in thethree-day PwC Great Trek near PortElizabeth from May 30.

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KEEP AN EYEon the thermometer too As all cyclists know, the term heart rate refers to the number of times one’s heart beats in a minute. This usually varies between 60 and 100 beats per minute, but several factors can influence the rate; the most common of which is exercise.

PULSE PAGES Words: Wynand de Villiers • Picture: Radu Razvan / Shutterstock.com

PULSE PAGES

FATIGUE, ILLNESS AND NOISE are otherfactors we have discussed in this column,but one should take note that temperaturealso influences the heart rate.A rise in body temperature, be it from

environmental factors or a medical condition, causes an increase in the heartrate. During rigorous exercise one’s bodytemperature increases markedly, whichleads to a more rapid heartbeat. A highfever does the same. Even if one simply sits in a hot place,

your heart rate is likely to increase. So, irrespective of your physical activity, yourheart will probably beat faster on a hotday. If you walk in the hot sun, your bodytemperature will increase. And failure tocontrol body temperature can result inheat stroke. The amount of heat that flows out of

the body depends on the amount of bloodthat circulates through the skin. To expedite heat loss, the capillaries near the

outer layer of the skin dilate, causing moreblood to flow through. Heat loss from the skin occurs by con-

vection and radiation. However, the hearthas to work harder to pump more blood toimprove blood circulation. Therefore, theheart beats faster, which helps increase therate of heat loss from the body. Also, the dilation of blood vessels lowers

the blood pressure. To restore normal bloodpressure, the heart beats faster and pushesmore blood through the blood vessels.Exactly the opposite happens when

you are in a cold environment. In cold conditions, it is necessary to reduce heatloss from the body to prevent hypothermia– abnormally low body temperature. This is achieved by constricting the blood

vessels of the skin. As a result, the bloodcirculation through the surface of the skinreduces, which contributes to lowering theheat loss via the skin. If you have an ice bath, your heart rate

will slow down. In general, the heart ratedrops when one is exposed to coldweather.Your heart rate will vary according to

conditions – hot or cold – when you go cycling. A change in outdoor temperaturefrom 15 to 24 degrees Celsius can causethe heart rate to increase by 2 to 4 beatsper minute. If the temperature jumps from 24 to

32 degrees while you are cycling, the difference in heart rate can be up to tenbeats per minute.Outdoor temperature plays a crucial role

in your heart rate. When you’re riding, theheart has the dual task of providing an adequate blood supply to the muscles aswell as to the capillaries of the skin tomaintain body temperature. This can be a great burden to the heart

if you are exercising in a hot environment.If you live in a hot climate, it is therefore agood idea to go riding in the morning. •CN

RACE PREVIEW


THE 31ST RUNNING of the three-stageevent starts and finishes at theMbombela Stadium near Nelspruit inMpumalanga on July 19. The riders willcover a gruelling 151 km through thepicturesque Lowveld.A capacity field of 1 500 cyclists is

expected to take on the out-and-backroute via White River and Sabie that wasintroduced with much success last year.The challenging terrain includes the

7km Spitskop climb and the 10km LongTom Pass, which has an average gradientof seven per cent.Girdlestone will be aiming to write his

name in the annals of the super classicthat has been dominated by such illustri-ous cyclists as Mark and Gary Beneke,Alan van Heerden, Robbie McIntosh,Robert Hunter and Reinardt Janse vanRensburg. >

Dylan aims at

third Jock titleDylan Girdlestone will have a third title in his sights when he returns to South Africa’s toughest one-day race, the Bestmed Jock Cycle Classique.

Bonitas star Dylan Girdlestone will be looking for another title at theBestmed Jock Cycle Classique, presented by ASG, on July 19. HereGirdlestone sits behind his team mate, Jayde Julius, on a grueling

climb in the Bestmed Tour de Boland earlier this year.

Words: Coetzee Gouws • Picture: Capcha

RACE PREVIEW


Campaigning in Europe with Mar-tiques Sport Cyclisme, which is affiliatedto his SA team, the 24-year-old Bonitasrider has made waves at internationallevel this season.He won the Gran Premi Odena in

Spain at the end of April and claimedthe king of the mountains classificationin both the Prix de la Ville du Mont Pujols (in which he finished third overall)and Arbent-Bourg-Arbent races inFrance.“So far I’m really enjoying the

experience and improving my cycling,”says Girdlestone, who will return toSouth Africa a little over a fortnight before the Jock.“I believe I’ll return with good form

but I might need to recover for a whileand then sharpen up.”Girdlestone, who is based in Pretoria

when he is in South Africa, feels the dis-tance and difficulty of the Mpumalangaroute could suit his strengths. “The fact that it’s a stage race means

that focusing on recovery betweenstages is very important.”The support of his new team should

also help improve his chances of victory. “The support and guidance in the

team is unmatched in South Africa and

widens my room for error somewhat as I have really strong teammates whocould also win the race for us.”When he was asked about chal-

lengers, Girdlestone named Eritrean riderMetkel Eyob and Ethiopian Alem GrmayAbebe of the MTN-Qhubeka feederteam as climbers to watch.He also listed local rivals Paul van

Zweel (EuropcarSA), JC Nel and NicDougall (both MTN-Qhubeka), GawieCombrinck and Johann Rabie (both EAI Cycling), David Maree (Abantu) and Darren Lill (Cannondale-Blend) as

possible threats.“I’m not sure which of them will be

participating but all of them are able toclimb well and have had good form thisyear.”Registration for the event, which is

presented by ASG, takes place from10:00 to 16:00 on the Thursday beforerace day at Cycle Lab Fourways, andfrom 14:00 to 18:00 on the Friday at thestadium.Enter at www.asgevents.co.za before

July 8. For updates, find the race detailson Facebook or follow @jockcycle. •CN

THE 2014 ROUTE151 km, THREE STAGES, ONE DAY

The 43km first stage starts at 06:30 at theMbombela Stadium near Nelspruit and includes 20km of hard pedalling on gradi-ents of between two and six per cent.The major obstacle is the challenging Heidel Eggs climb, which is 2 km long.The stage finishes along the White

River Road with breakfast at Rob FerreiraHigh School.At 09:30, the 45km second stage

begins. The riders head out towardsSabie, over the 7km Spitskop climb. For those who make it over the top, awelcome lunch break awaits at Sabie Primary School.After lunch, at 13:00, the 63km final

stage takes the riders back to Nelspruitvia Long Tom Pass. The last stage beginswith 10 km of tough climbing up thepass. After that, it is mostly downhill andthe joys of cycling accompany the ridersinto Nelspruit.

Distance (km)

Elevation (m)

1600

1400

1200

1000

800

600

20 40 60 80 100 120 140

S1 S2 S3

SABIEWITRIVIER

Pictures: Jetline Action Photo

BUT ANYONE who has ever had to surrender their prized on or off-roadsteed to the dark recesses of an aeroplane’s storage cabin will tell youthat the flight is sometimes anything but relaxing.Whether you’re a roadie, mountain

biker or triathlete, making sure that yourbike is protected is your number one priority. By all accounts, with the SciconAerocomfort 2.0, you’ll have it in thebag.No wonder Team Garmin Sharp, one

of the top Pro Tour teams, entrust theirmachines to it.While some bike bags require you to

remove various parts of your bike forsafe storage, this strategically craftedsoft-shell requires only the wheels to bestored in double-padded side pockets. The rest of the bike is held in place by

an aluminium support frame specificallyengineered to withstand shocks and vibrations. This spans the entire length of the reinforced floor.The Aerocomfort 2.0 also offers a

stabiliser system that includes a bracketthat can be fitted to the rear derailleurfor protection against sideways impacts.Lateral shield cups are fitted to the

outside of the bag, safeguarding thewheel hubs from scratches and bumps.It is shipped to the customer with

high-density foam shock tubes (framepads), which will ensure that your frameand handlebars remain scratch-free.To the manufacturer’s credit, the

Aerocomfort 2.0 is designed to accommodate frame sizes of up to65cm.Some mountain bikes may sport wider

handlebars and, if this sounds like yours,

a useful tip is to lower the seat postsomewhat. Only in extreme cases wouldit be necessary to remove the handlebarscompletely. Sturdy wheels – with replaceable

casters – make the bag a cinch to movearound.Weighing about 7 to 9kg, depending

on the accessories, the bag will ensureyou’re not huffing and puffing your wayaround the airport terminal.A handy TSA (Travel Safety Administra-

tion) approved lock is included, givingyou peace of mind for when your packaged bike is out of sight.The bag, with its heavy-duty Ripstop

nylon exterior, folds away to a third of itssize for storage.Scicon’s Aerocomfort 2.0 is distributed

by ASG. Contact your nearest cycle shopfor availability and price. •CN

It’s great fun doing cycle races. The excitement of entering, surveying the route map, getting your gear ready and, finally, travelling to the race.

•

SAFE TRAVELS WITHSCICON SOFT-SHELL

PRODUCT FEATURE


DATE: 13 July 2014VENUE: Walkerville Showgrounds GPS COORDINATES: (26 24 17S and 27 57 48E)DISTANCES: 60km & 30kmSTARTING TIME: 60km: 08:30, 30km: 09:30ENTRY FEES: 60km (R190), 30km (R150)


GAUTENG’S FAVOURITE

(AND COLDEST!)WINTER

CHALLENGE

walkervillemountain bike classic

17thEDITION

ONLINE ENTRIES:

www.asgevents.co.za

ONLINE ENTRIES CLOSE:

6 July 2014

20 QUESTIONS


20 QUESTIONS FOR CRAIG WAPNICK

Wappo’s pride and joy –

the joBerg2cCyclingnews sits down for a “proper” chat with Old Mutual joBerg2c organiser and reformed ad man Craig “Wappo” Wapnick about life, love and labouring on perfectly manicured single-track. >

Race organiser Craig “Wappo” Wapnick will be waiting to welcomeriders at the finish line of the 2015 Old Mutual joBerg2c.

Words: Coetzee Gouws • Pictures: Kelvin Trautman

How did the nickname ProperWappo come about?A: Unfortunately, the Wappo partcomes only from my surname and“proper” from my constant use ofthe word to describe anything that isreal and authentic – like “proper single track”.

How many months of the year do you spend working on thenine-day Old Mutual joBerg2c?A: It is a year-round experience. Notfull time, but full year.

You were one of the best squashplayers South Africa has had.Where does mountain biking fitin?A: Squash is an awesome sport but itis very hard on the body. After 20years of serious squash it was greatto find something as fun and exhilarating as mountain biking. First ride with my mate AndrewBroom and I was hooked.

Give us one or two highlights ofyour squash career.A: I suppose winning the nationalchampionships, playing on the worldcircuit for eight years, playing in theCommonwealth Games and captain-ing South Africa in the world teamchampionships on a few occasions.

Somewhere between squash andmountain biking there was an advertising career. Tell us aboutyour “moonlighting”.A: Ja, I was a partner in a greatagency called Cross Colours and myadvertising career spanned ten years.Working on clients such as Nando’swas fun but eventually I needed toget some fresh air.

The Old Mutual joBerg2c iswidely seen as an extension ofthe Nedbank sani2c and Fed-Group Berg & Bush. Tell us aboutthe day the farmers (Glen Hawand Gary Green) approached you,and about your thoughts on theirproposition.

A: I was one of the fortunate fewwho rode the initial sani2c dry runswith Farmer Glen and his crew. Itwas a great phase in mountain biking. Everything was new. Weformed a great relationship. FarmerGlen heard I had left advertising andapproached me to help him withjoBerg2c. I immediately said yes. Wethen spotted Farmer Gary in a Joburgcoffee shop and Glen said: “Gary,are you doing joBerg2c with us? Youdo the middle three days, Wappo willdo the first three and then we endwith the sani2c route”. He looked upfrom his coffee and said yes. And,just like that, he was in too. Betweenthat August (2009) until the follow-ing April we put joBerg2c together.

What was the biggest obstacle inturning three days in the flat FreeState into prime mountain bikingproperty?A: Winning over the farmers in areaswhere they had never heard ofmountain biking.

20 QUESTIONS


“I was one of the fortunate fewwho rode the initial sani2c dry runs

with Farmer Glen and his crew.

It was a great phase in mountain

biking. Everything was new.”

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20 QUESTIONS


The route crosses about 100 private farms. Since John Deereand Massey Ferguson do not produce mountain bikes, weguess there was some sort of educational process involvedwith the farmers. Tell us aboutthat and how your ideas were received.A: For sure, that was the most fun;getting to know the characters thatfeed South Africa. It was not longbefore I was drinking brandy andcoke on the porch in the middle ofthe eastern Free State. Our relation-ship with these farmers is whatmakes the Old Mutual joBerg2c sospecial.

Talk us through the differences inmindset between a city boy likeyourself and your farming colleagues, Glen and Gary.A: They dress funny.

The race is based on a communitymodel in which the communitybenefits directly from runningrace villages. Give us one exam-ple of a standout success story.A: All our race villages are run byschools along the way. Some schoolsmake profits of up to R200 000 outof the event. The entire model is asuccess story.

It’s fair to say that you’re a ratherjovial character and that you believe the gees is intrinsic to this event. Tell us about this philosophy.A: Gees is a great word to describesomething real but intangible. It isnot something you can manufacture,or some advertising concept. If youlove mountain biking, if you love seeing riders happy and you embracecommunities, I think the natural out-come is gees. I am very fortunate towork with a bunch of people whoare genuine in everything they do.The result is something special.

Your mountain bike is apparentlycentral to one of your personalsuccess stories … meeting yourwife Kelly. Besides your bike, tellus how you met the other greatlove of your life.A: I first spotted her at sani2c a fewyears ago but I was still more in lovewith my bike. Then I met her at aparty and found out she had more to offer than my six-inch trail bike.We hit it off when we realised welove riding together. Best move Ihave ever made.

We all know you’re an entrepre-neur at heart. Anything in thepipeline?A: I am working with some passionate trail riders to start theSwitchBack Series, a super-technicalstage race series with short stagesfor a small field that will test riders to the limit. >

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20 QUESTIONS


You spend a whole year creating aspectacular mountain-bike rideand can only watch as 800 or moreriders pedal off without you. Tellus about your emotions watchingfrom the sidelines at the start atHeidelberg.A: It is weird creating something that Iwould love to ride myself but, next tothe pleasure of riding my bike, watching others have a great time is a close second.

Each one of the three organisershas accepted responsibility forthree days of the event. Initially,having been allocated the flat FreeState, you took a beating withinyour friendly rivalry. Do you everfeel ganged up on and what doyou believe you’ve brought to theevent?A: The farmers’ barks are bigger thantheir bite. Together we have uppedthe game across the whole route. Ourfriendly banter has ensured we innovate to keep each other on our toes.

GPS navigation was introduced at this year’s event, which meansno one could get lost. Did any interesting stories arise from this?A: It was a massive success. Occasion-ally something would go wrong butno one got lost. It is always interestingwhen riders come in and say: “I tooka wrong turn but I wasn’t followingmy GPS”. This form of navigation isthe future and it will only get better.

Tell us about the most inspira-tional story you’ve witnessed atthis year’s or any other event.A: Undoubtedly it was watching PauloBeltramo, who has stage four cancer,finishing the journey. This is real stuffand it is very emotional.

The Old Mutual joBerg2c has avery special tradition after the lastrider crosses the finish. Tell us a bitabout this. A: There is nothing like our mass swimas a few hundred riders all line up andsplash into the warm Indian Ocean. Ittypifies the spirit of the event. A fittingend to a great story.

The Old Mutual joBerg2c is now atruly international event. What isthe typical feedback that you getfrom foreign riders?A: This year we had a really fantasticbunch of riders from all over theworld. They are more trail riders thanracing snakes and this is great for theevent. They have ridden many of thebest trails in the world and they stillseemed to really love the event. Theyare our best international marketingmouths.

If you could see five years into thefuture, what do you envision forthe race?A: Our main goal is to keep the same“route is king” philosophy in an eventthat is full of soul. As long as peoplelove proper mountain biking and aslong as we keep looking after theschools that look after our riders, weshould have some great years tocome. •CN

* Wappo says exciting innovations areplanned for the 2015 race. Watchthis space.

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THIS YEAR, participants can opt for a60km ride that, for the first time, takes theriders outside the Sondela border on toneighbouring farms. Other events are over40 and 20 km, and there is, of course,also a kiddies’ ride. The 20 and 40km rides, as well as the

one for children, take place on the Saturday, June 28. The 60km ride eventwill be on the Sunday and offers an opportunity to race with having to contend with slow riders.Entries for all the rides close a week be-

fore to the event to enable the organisersto seed the riders according to the SAseeding system. Cyclists can still enter at registration

venues, but no entries will be accepted onthe morning of any event. Riders whoenter at registration venues will pay a R50 late-entry fee and won’t be seeded. Sondela operations manager “Ranger

Mel” Meyer has created a stunning mountain-bike course at the well-knownnature reserve north of Pretoria. The eventis held for the third time this year. The Sondela Nature Reserve is only 45

minutes north of Pretoria on the N1 Highway and has been a popular Bushveldgetaway for many years. It is run on ahigh-occupancy rate but is made availablefor a mass participation event that is nowa popular winter stop-over on the cyclingcalendar.The ascent on the 60km ride is

266 metres and the 40km presents 186mof climbing. The 20km ride takes riders100m higher. It all adds up to fast ridingand routes that are suited to cyclists of allabilities.A special deal is available for riders who

want to participate in events on bothdays.There are almost endless flowing single-

track sections on which riders can pro-ceed at a comfortable pace; a perfectwinter ride to keep the legs in shape.

Sondela offers excellent facilities, ampleparking and good entertainment in thehuge race village where eats and drinksare sold throughout the day. The events start and finish on the polo

field adjacent to the Sondela caravan park,which now has almost 40 new stands, allwith private ablution facilities that riderswill be able to use.A beer garden and live music add to

the attraction of cycling through the magnificent Bushveld surroundings. Ridersare likely to see warthog, impala, zebra,wildebeest, nyala and eland as they maketheir way to the sponsored water pointsalong the route.The Classic starts at 09:00 on the

Sunday so that participants can drive tothe venue on the morning of the eventand have time to warm up with thosewho overnight at the venue.The entire caravan park has been

reserved for those who would like to sleep over for the weekend. Because of the high occupancy rate at

Sondela, chalet accommodation is open tothe general public over the weekend,which means mountain bikers who wouldlike to book these luxury self-cateringunits have to get cracking. Ranger Mel, a self-confessed

mountain-bike addict, set out to createa riding culture at Sondela seven yearsago. He has cut more than 80km ofmountain-bike tracks on the 4 700-hectare farm. That he is aperfectionist shows in the trailsthat offer quick and flowingmountain-bike riding.

BESTMED SONDELA MOUNTAIN BIKE CLASSIC

Bushveld’s big MTB bash is back

RACE PREVIEW


Words: Coetzee Gouws • Picture: Shutterstock

The Bestmed Sondela Mountain Bike Classic, which attracted 1 400 riders last year, will deliver an encore during the weekend of June 28 and 29.

DATES28 and 29 June 2014

DISTANCES60km, 40km and 20km; kiddies’ rides (500metres for 3- to 5-year-olds and 5km for 6-to-8-year-olds)

TIMESSaturday: 40km starts at 08:00, the 20km at11:00 and the kiddies’ ride at 13:00Sunday: 60km starts at 09:00

ENTRY FEES 60km – R19040km – R17020km – R130Kiddies’ rides – R50Combined entries:20km and 60km – R28040km and 60km – R320

ON-LINE ENTRIES www.asgevents.co.za

ENTRIES CLOSE 22 June 2014

REGISTRATION Solomons Cycles, Gift Acres Shopping Cen-tre, Lynwood Road, Pretoria East – Thursday June 26 from 10:00 to 16:00Sondela Caravan Park Pub – Friday June 27from 14:00 to 18:00Sondela Caravan Park Pub – Saturday June 28from 7:00 to 12:00

MORE INFORMATION For more information about Sondela and fordirections go to www.sondela.comFor race enquiries phone 076 621 1807 oremail [email protected]

FEATURE


The Sunday’s event is geared towards riders with a competitive attitude but theSaturday offers two distance options for thefamily and the not-so-serious bikers.The kiddies’ race is for those between 3

and 5 years old. They will ride on a speciallybuilt “trail” with ramps and cool berms.Those between 6 and 8 can try their hand ata 5km circular single-track MTB course. Skilled riders who will be spread along the

course will accompany the youngsters whocan look forward to winning delightfulprizes. While the 20km and 40km rides take

place on the Saturday, those who enteredfor the Sunday event can spend time withtheir families in the beautiful surroundings. The resort boasts a heated pool and offers

various activities for children, including“kleilat” throwing, quad-bike rides, tug of war and excursions to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and farmyard. Thosewho get up early enough can even help milkthe cows.Proceeds from the Classic will go to the

Sondela Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.All finishers will receive medals and biglucky-draw prizes will be handed out atthe prize giving, sponsored by RCI,Sondela and ASG.PS: The resort has won numerous

awards for excellence and theMountain-bike Classic reflects the culture of excellence.Entries and further information on

www.asgevents.co.za. For bookings at Sondela, call 014 736 8900 oremail [email protected]. •CN

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Phone: (+27) 11 396 1896Fax: (+27) 11 396 2011

E-mail: [email protected]

“The Classic starts at 09:00 onthe Sunday so that participants

can drive to the venue on the

morning of the event.”

RACE PREVIEW


Words: Coetzee Gouws • Picture: Shutterstock

RIDERS WILL REACH the highest point inSouthern Gauteng as they take on theprovince’s favourite (and coldest) winterchallenge, now in its 17th year. There will be little time to warm the

legs before they hit the infamous 3kmPlatberg climb, which starts at the 7kmmark and ends 1 830m above sea level.The agony and the exquisite views are

only for the 60km feature race competi-tors, however, because the 30km riderswill take a detour around the hill.But, says route designer Ken Davies,

getting to the top of Platberg is just thebeginning. The descent has eroded over the years, which has created sometechnical excitement.“Coming down the other side has

always been a bit of a challenge,” hesays, adding that Walkerville, one of thelong-standing events on the local calendar, has maintained a consistentfocus on true mountain biking.“It’s always been a proper mountain-

bike race, with a fair bit of technical stuffand a lot of single track,” says Ken.“And it’s blimmin’ cold!”The 70-year-old, who has been

involved with the race since its inception,says the route relies on a rideable mix of single and jeep track, as well as district road to help riders recover.“It’s fast and flowing. The total ascent

is around 950m but the climbs are nottoo radical. The course really suits all-rounders. We have never had roadies shaping on this one.”This year, says Davies, the route will

again pass through the Stirrup Clubgame farm, via the Eye of Africa Golf Estate. “The route climbs past the oldslate mine on the farm. The shorter routethen loops back towards the finish, whilethe 60km riders can look forward tosome good single track sections throughthe Eikenhof plots.”Riders will also pass the Windhoek

Brewery before hitting a short tarredstretch in the Drumblade area. The routethen wraps up with a gentle drag alongthe Walkerville road towards the Lapeng

Hotel, Conference and Events Centre.After that, a final uphill stretch of

single track is all that lies between partic-ipants and the finish on the raceway atthe Walkerville Showgrounds.The 30km ride is substantially shorter

than the traditional 40km event, butDavies says riders should not be de-ceived. “It’s a much more accessible dis-tance for social riders but it will still be atough 30km with a hard 2km climb justbefore the Hartzenberg plots on the wayback to Walkerville.”Participants in the two distances will

approach the finish line from oppositedirections. “Because they split after theStirrup Club, there will be no congestionor mixing of the riders on the route.”Davies believes mountain bikers are

particularly privileged to ride these routesas certain sections cross a number of private properties. “This means you can’tjust come and ride these same trails atany other time.”Entries will be limited to 2 000 riders

and all finishers will receive medals. Entries close a week before race day

so that the organisers have time to properly seed riders according to the SAseeding system.

The long routeThe 60km route is, as usual, a true chal-lenge, boasting 950 metres of climbing. After the start on the Walkerville

Showgrounds raceway, the first 10kmwill provide the toughest section. Riderswill climb all the way to the top of thePlatberg, which sits at 1 830 metresabove sea level.The views from the top are amazing,

and the elation is equalled only by theexcitement of the descent. The trip downPlatberg has become eroded over thepast few years, and this year the drop includes two concrete reinforced sections, which should make the goingslightly easier.For drainage reasons, water troughs

have been installed that riders have towatch out for.

WALKERVILLE MOUNTAIN BIKE CLASSIC

Platberg test will separatetough guys and brave menThe opening kilometres of the SIDI Online Walkerville Mountain Bike Classic willseprate the really tough riders from the brave men on the morning of July 13.

DATE13 July 2014

VENUEWalkerville Showgrounds

DISTANCES60km & 30km

TIMES60km: 08:3030km: 09:30

ENTRY FEES 60km: R19030km: R150

ON-LINE ENTRIES www.asgevents.co.za

ENTRIES CLOSE 6 July 2014

REGISTRATION Thursday 11 July 10h00 – 16h00: Cycle Lab Little FallsFriday 12 July 10h00 – 16h00: Cycle Lab FourwaysSaturday 13 July 09h00 – 15h00: Walkerville Showgrounds

MORE INFORMATION Email [email protected] or phone 076 621 1807

RACE PREVIEW


The Platberg is a 3km climb that startsat 7km where the 40km and 60kmroutes split. The riding on the other sideof the Platberg is fast and the race againgoes through the Stirrup Club, which belonged to a folk hero in these parts,Koos Claassen.Claassen, a tough Junior Springbok

and Transvaal rugby player in his days,died at the age of 77 recently. He wasknown far and wide as a man who seldom wore shoes. He’ll be fondly remembered by all riders who saw himwave as they passed through his farm. A silent salute will be in order this year. The riders will access the Stirrup Club

from the back end through the Eye ofAfrica Golf Estate and will climb past theold slate mine on the farm before exitingand going through the Eikenhof plots.The 30km riders split off and head backhome at the Stirrup Club exit.Eikenhof offers some wonderful

smooth single-track sections before theriders hit jeep track along the way to theWindhoek Brewery adjacent to the R59.The route then heads into Drumblade,

a fast section, giving riders some respiteon a short tarred section before theytackle the gentle drag on the Walkervilleroad to Lapeng. From Lapeng a single-track uphill challenge awaits throughsome Walkerville plots. It brings ridersback to the Walkerville Showgrounds fora job well done!

The 30km routeThe split from the 60km route after theStirrup Club is the halfway point in theride and also the first water point. Once they are through the plots, the

participants can look forward to lovelyriding through game farms and horsestables before they enter the Show-grounds from the Johannesburg side.The 30km ride has approximately

500 metres of ascent. •CN

Distance (km)

Elevation (m)

1850

1800

1750

1700

1650

1600

1550

1506

7.5 15 22.5 30 37.5 45 52.5 61

PERRY LAUNCHED a solo attack withkilometres to go and there was no catching him.The 34-year-old Team Abantu rider

claimed his maiden win in the 102kmfeature race, alongside OR Tambo International Airport, posting a time of 2 hours17 minutes and 55 seconds.Calvin Beneke (Team EuropcarSA) and

defending champion David Maree(Abantu) finished more than 30 secondsback in second and third respectively.Perry said the racing had started at a

furious pace, with Team Abantu puttingtwo of its riders – Reynard Butler andMyles van Musschenbroek – into the first break of the day.“This put Team Bonitas under pressure

and we let them chase for about 50 kilometres. I noticed they were startingto tire just before the break was caught,

so I told my team to start the attack,” he explained.The tactics resulted in a group of

about 15 riders going clear with approximately 30km to go. They chased down the leaders, Van Musschenbroek and James Fourie ofTeam EuropcarSA).“Just before we caught them, with

about 12 kilometres to go, I launchedmy final attack. Nobody followed meand I managed to ride solo to the finish,thanks to the efforts of my team,” Perry said.They had planned a sprint finish for

their teammate Nolan Hoffman, whohad won the points jersey in theBestmed Tour de Boland and MzansiTour in previous weeks but “I had thebest legs on the day, so the weight fellon my shoulders.”

Perry rode himself into form duringthe previous week’s Mzansi Tour afteralso taking the Wilro 100 Lions CycleChallenge.In the women’s race, Lise Olivier

(Time Freight-Velo Life) held her nerve towin a small bunch sprint to the line.Olivier, who was runner-up in the Tour

de Boland after winning the final stage,crossed the line in 2 hours 47 minutesand 40 seconds, a mere second ahead ofAnriette Schoeman (Africa Silks-Bestmed) and An-Li Kachelhoffer (Activate Drinks).Ian Pienaar won the 40km men’s

mountain-bike race, which shadowedthe airport runways, in 1:39:37. Victoryin the women’s event went to last year’snational junior marathon champion Jessica Alcock (Team Jeep SA), whoclocked 2:00:54. •CN

HOME JAMES!as Perry wins Emperors Classic

RACE REVIEW


Words: Coetzee Gouws • Picture: Peter Morey

Former SA time-trial champion James Perry showed his flair as he rode almost unchallenged to victory in the Emperors Palace Classic east of Johannesburg.

Documents

Cyclingnews - May/June 2014