The Savanna Origin of Trails MTB Experience, dubbed South Africa’s “MTB Party of the Year,” took off with an electrifying start on November 16, 2024. Held at the picturesque Coetzenburg Field in Stellenbosch, this highly anticipated event brought together mountain biking enthusiasts from far and wide for a unique blend of adventure, community spirit, and stunning landscapes.
As riders arrived, they were greeted with the option to choose between the Marathon and Half Marathon distances, each offering a thrilling ride through the breathtaking countryside. Day 1 of the Marathon featured an impressive 48-kilometer course, which included a challenging total ascent of 1,400 meters. Participants navigated through a variety of terrains, with thrilling short climbs, smooth single tracks, and technical descents that tested their skills while showcasing the beautiful scenery of the Cape Winelands.
Among the standout moments was a special section in Keermont that left riders buzzing. Local hero Luyanda Thobigunya from Idas Valley, a regular at this event, emerged as the first rider to cross the finish line in the Marathon. He expressed his reverence for the trails, saying, “I love the trails, especially those in Dornier and Stellenzicht. They are challenging yet incredibly rewarding.” With a sparkling performance on the first day, he was determined to maintain his lead, hoping to collaborate with his teammates for upcoming stages.
Andrea Schöfmann, also from Stellenbosch, made waves as she clinched the title of the first female rider to finish the Marathon on her debut. Radiating enthusiasm, she remarked, “I aimed to push hard and enjoy the fun of my local trails. It was exciting to explore new paths, and even a surprise dip in the Mont Marie dam added to the fun!” Her solid start has given her a confidence boost for the rest of the season.
The Half Marathon kicked off with a friendly 26-kilometer route and a total ascent of 650 meters. This section provided an ideal combination of jeep tracks and single tracks, perfect for riders of all skill levels. Notable features included the floating bridge at Mont Marie and the ever-popular G-Spot trail, adding to the rich tapestry of experiences for participants.
The anticipation for Stage Two of the Savanna Origin of Trails MTB Experience is palpable, as riders prepare for another exciting challenge on November 17, 2024. The event, which also supports the Stellenbosch Trail Fund, underscores the importance of preserving local trails while encouraging the love of mountain biking in the region.
As enthusiasm builds, this year’s MTB experience promises to further celebrate the community and the beauty of Stellenbosch’s trails. Be sure to follow along for more updates and highlights as we continue this thrilling journey!
Category Tags: #SportNews #Tourism
Country Tags: #SouthAfrica #Stellenbosch
