NATIONAL NEWS - Thousands of keen Southern Cape cycling enthusiasts are sure to participate in next year’s Cape Town Cycle Tour MTB taking place on Saturday 3 March. 

This year, for the first time since its establishment in 1978, the tour had to be cancelled on Sunday 12 March, due to extremely strong winds, leaving many participants from the Eden District disappointed and with no other choice but to back up and head back home. 

This time the organisers are holding thumbs that the weather will play along ensuring a stunning race for all.

Entries opened on 12 October and are hosted at the Cycle Tour website: www.capetowncycletour.com.

“The fields for each distance are limited,” warns David Bellairs, Marketing, Media and Sponsorship Director of the Cape Town Cycle Tour Trust, organisers of the event. “So be ready to secure your entry from 1pm today (12 October), when entries open.”

The challenge, previously held over two days, merges into one day of dirt and adrenaline highs on the challenging trails designed by Dirtopia’s Meurant Botha.

Now in its 17th year, the popular event will once again offer something for all keen mountain bikers. 

“Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a racing snake, you’ll love the new routes,” says Bellairs. “Meurant has included more single-track stretches for next year’s challenge and of course the scenery is spectacular.”

The 20km route is perfect for those looking for an enjoyable ride with family and friends. The ride starts out fast and flowing on wide farm roads and jeep tracks, with the first single-track section at the 8km mark. From here, riders enter the vineyards of the southern Klapmutskop with several fun single-tracks and descents to follow.

The 40km heads up to Delvera, where riders will cross over to the Simonsberg section where some demanding mountain biking awaits. The climbs can be pretty intense and this route is certainly geared towards the more experienced riders.

“The Cape Town Cycle Tour MTB Challenge 60km route is a proper test with extended single-track runs and big climbs,” says Bellairs. “We have increased the distance from last year’s 55km to make sure that this medal is one that is well-deserved.”

At Muratie Estate, the 60km riders will veer off to take on the trails at Quoin Rock, Knorhoek and Delheim Estates before heading back to Uitkyk where they will rejoin the 40km route to the finish.

see below entry fees and other details for each distance:

Cape Town Cycle Tour MTB Challenge 2018

Keep informed of developments of the Cape Town Cycle Tour MTB Challenge by liking their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/cycletour.

For more information on the 2018 event, visit www.capetowncycletour.com.