GEORGE NEWS - The popular Grootbrak Grabadoo will take place for the 22nd time on Wednesday 31 December from the Grootbrak Sports Grounds at 67 Long Street.
As is always the case on this family-fun occasion, the well-tested cycling and run/walk routes will suit every entrant's fitness level. But this year, festivities will carry on beyond the finish line.
The continued support of local businesses and individuals has enabled organisers to spoil participants with Grabadoo buffs (for the first 1 500 paid entries), medals and magazines.
Says race director Alewijn Dippenaar: "After last year's Grootbrak Grabadoo, a post-event survey revealed that people are keen to stay on for some after-action satisfaction. And so, we've arranged for adult cyclist finishers to each receive a Devil's Peak Lager, while kids and runners / walkers will get cooldrinks to quench their thirst.
"Finishers' free copies of SOUTH magazines and Cokes will be complemented by Spar boerie rolls for sale as well as stalls offering coffee, pancakes and other delights to prolong the good cheer that prevails at the Lang Street race hub. We're pulling out all the stops to ensure this 22nd anniversary cements us again as one of the Garden Route's best-loved family event."
Grootbrak Grabadoo offers a 4.8km run/walk route and mountain bike options over distances of 15km, 36km, 56km and 75km, thus catering for all tastes on some of the most picturesque tracks in the Southern Cape. Dippenaar says long-range riders will set off from the Great Brak Sport Grounds at 06:00 on 31 December.
Both the 56km and 75km cycle routes include the historic hamlet of Friemersheim and its surrounding forests. Cyclists are spoilt for choice when it comes to terrain variety and spectacular views. Pretty farmland forms a backdrop to the route, while The Big Dipper challenges even the fittest of riders.
Cyclists are spoilt for choice when it comes to terrain variety and spectacular views. Photo supplied
Marshals along the way ensure that those riding shorter distances know where to go, with warning signs indicating sharp turns and descents to ensure cyclists' safety.
Dippenaar says apart from the volunteers, the event creates 40-plus temporary employment opportunities. "Garden Route businesses are stepping up to guarantee an unforgettable Old Year's Day. The festivities will be made even more special with entertainment by local singer, Marius du Bruyn."
The event partner in the Grabadoo is Halfway Toyota and other collaborators are Mossel Bay Tourism Hencor Construction, Property Connect, De Dekke Spar & Savemore, Coke, SOUTH magazine and Coimbra Cycle House. Volunteers from Vorentoe Laerskool and House of Valor will help manning refreshment stations, while other local concerns contribute in the form of cash, products or services.
This year, funds raised will benefit Firstcare Wildfire Support and Vorentoe Laerskool PTA as well as House of Valor.
Kids under 12 enter for free, but will not earn any race memorabilia.
Get your entry in early
Pre-entries can be done at Coimbra Cycle House in George or your local choice pharmacy in Great Brak River. Pre-entries will also be available on 30 December at the Race Village. Participants can also enter on the morning of the 31st from 05:00 at the start line. You may also book online here.
For more information on the route contact Alewijn Dippenaar (082 457 5675) or Mimi Finestone (084 583 3144).
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