Breedekloof Wine Valley to host brand new mountain bike stage race

The inaugural Gravel and Grape, a three-day mountain bike stage race is taking place from 25 to 27 April 2015.

This brand new event on the calendar will take participants through 232km of undiscovered routes in the Breedekloof Wine Valley, which is just one hour from Cape Town, along the N1, and includes Rawsonville, Slanghoek, Goudini and Breerivier areas. The race village is based at a hot water resort, the ATKV Goudini Spa, making this a family weekend instead of just another rider event.

The Breedekloof Wine Valley appointed Pieter du Plessis of Iqela Events as event organiser. “The Gravel and Grape offers kilometres of sometimes challenging and sometimes sheer sublime routes through the magnificent and varied scenery of the Breedekloof Wine Valley. Although the race is aimed at all riders, each day’s route has a good variety of single track and climbs to make this race a challenge for the experienced riders as well. It is perfect for riders that enjoy cycling without stressing about very technical sections,” said Du Plessis.

The race itself takes place in a cloverleaf format, with each day starting and ending at ATKV Goudini Spa. “All three days are brand new routes, those who has been at the Slanghoek MTB Classic might recognise some sections on day three though. The Gravel and Grape will appeal to mountain bikers who are looking for a great riding weekend. It is affordable so you can bring the whole family along,” Du Plessis added.

“The fact that the race village is based at a central venue, offering loads of family entertainment and a full programme of activities for the children will make the Gravel and Grape an unique race. Now mom and/or dad doesn’t have to feel guilty about leaving the family behind to enjoy a weekend of cycling – we’re catering for everyone”, says Melody Botha, CEO of Breedekloof Wine & Tourism.

Entries for Gravel and Grape opened on Wednesday 1 October 2014.

Event information

Day 1: 92km/ 2200m

Day 2: 75km/ 1300m

Day 3: 65km/ 850m

Every day will start and finish at the ATKV Goudini Spa.

Entry information

R4 400 per team (meals included, but excluding accommodation)

Entries open: 1 October 2014

Contact information

info@gravelandgrape.com

www.gravelandgrape.com