Cyclists conquer the big MTB Challenge

Cyclists rode off as victors at The Land Rover West Rand Silverstar MTB Challenge.

The sought-after and hotly-anticipated challenge had cyclists from all over Johannesburg gather at Silverstar Casino on 10 September. They braved the sweltering heat and championed the various terrain set up to defeat them.

The day saw riders compete in either the 20km or 40km routes through the area. The 20km route included a 400m climb and was created to give the rider a fun experience.

The 40km route had a 700m ascent with more climbing involved. Although longer, it had all the fun of the shorter route along with added sections to make the riders’ experience of the event more memorable.

The trail was gruelling with some very technical aspects to gauge the strength of their legs. Riders made sure not to let the terrain get the better of them as they approached their zone with a clear intent to win.

One of the youngest riders, Jaco Eloff (14) said he started cycling last year after he was introduced to the sport by a family friend. He added that he found the challenge to be just what he needed to ready himself for upcoming mountain bike races.

Father and son team, Mark and Max Rogotzki said they paid little attention to the scenery as they were too focused on where they were riding. “It’s a very rough and treacherous trail,” said Mark. He added that this was not the first time they have raced together. “It is a great environment to bring children to. I can ride ahead of Max and know that he will be safe with the help of the many marshals along the route,” said Mark.

Fellow rider, Paul Kotze concluded he loved the challenge as, with 150 enthusiastic riders, it was very sociable.

Winners of the 40-km event:

Men

1st Jan Withaar 1:36:44

2nd Wessel Redelinghuys 1:38:05

3rd Jacques van Rensburg 1:38:57.

Women

1st Nadine Visagie 1:59:27

2nd Petruschka Constancon 2:07:51

3rd Tanya Hartley 2:10:50.

Winners of the 20-km event:

Men

1st Johan Gouws 1:08:57

2nd Conrad Edwards 1:12:25

3rd Marco Neta 1:12:49.

Women

1st Chloe Gardner 1:13:31

2nd Chene Niemand 1:20:09

3rd Nicola Ehlers 1:22:20.