George abuzz during Witfontein Enduro

GEORGE NEWS - George was buzzing recently with mountain bikers who came from across the country to participate in the Witfontein Enduro on Saturday 25 September.

Thanks to event sponsors Ride Life Cycle Shop, Squirt Cycling Products and Ruwacon Construction, organiser Chris Barrett could upgrade the race from last year's Funduro to a full-blown Enduro this year.

"A total of 85 riders registered at Ground Zero bike and trail park on Saturday morning, which is almost double the entries of last year's race," said Barrett.

"The entire route ran on the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment's land, where the Hillbillies Mountain Bike Club maintain arguably the best trails in the country. The Hillbillies committee members were also in full force, volunteering towards the success of the day and even sponsoring some prize money for the overall podium."

Jordan de Goede in action.

Limits were tested by riders not only having to do 26km and climb more than 1 000m of elevation, but having to maintain focus on the five unique downhill stages, with heart rates red-lining while racing at breakneck speeds over terrain where most would struggle to walk.

Capetonian Lance Morris took the top step on the men's podium, followed by Daniel Dobinson, Nico Bester, Jordan de Goede and Barrett.

For the ladies, Jenna Byrnes from Port Elizabeth took gold, with Aimee Glisson and Ilse Martin rounding up the podium. Nipper and sprog riders (8 to 12 year-olds) were recognised for their efforts in the Lite category race with Kuaan van Tonder in first place, Miro Jameck second and Toby Hoepfner third for the boys. Alrie Eloff was the only girl in this age group.

Full results are available on the Witfontein Enduro 2021 Facebook event page.

An airborne Jacques Theron. Photos: Deidré Cloete