Although the morning was misty, the winter weather played along last Sunday, 27 & 28 July, when round 1500 mountain bikers enjoyed the Winelands around Spier wine farm, during the annual STB MTB event. Participants warmed up quickly from the pedalling, although the route conditions were a bit muddy at times with a few water crossings, to add to the outdoor fun!
Well-known local event company, Dirtopia has been event partners with Adventure Shop for 14 years, with the goal to attract outdoor enthusiasts to the wine lands in winter. The event focus was on family outdoor fun and everyone certainly enjoyed the beauty that Stellenbosch surrounds have on offer.
Sebastian Stark and Amy McDougall were the respective men’s and women’s winners. Stark won the 50km race in 1:46:53, beating Theodore van Wyk and Aidan Penfold into second and third respectively. McDougall won her race in 1:56:37, with Laura Stark second and Nikki Biesheuvel third.
The 22km men’s race was won by Cameron Holtrop, while Angeliq Coetzer claimed the win in the women’s event.
But the event highlights were the well-stocked and vibey refreshment stations and the finish facilities afterwards had hot showers, live music, kids play area, food, beer on tap and wine sales. One of the farms that the route crosses, Stellenbosch Hills also poured sparkling wine at one waterpoint and Spier at another. Snacks included fruit, banana bread and even chocolate and sweets plus cooldrinks like Coke & Powerade. A Giant mountain bike was won in the lucky draw as well as Spier wines, Thule bike rack and accommodation vouchers.
The next events to enter for is listed on www.dirtopia.co.za with the 10th annual Staalwater MTB Challenge & Trail Run in Caledon on 17 August being the next fun family outdoor event – offering three mountain bike distances and two trail run options.
Contact Dirtopia Trail Centre for more info: 0218844353 or mail info@dirtopia.co.za
