The Trans Baviaans has grown in popularity over the last 12 years, so much so that the entries for the event sold out within 8 hours. This caused quite a stir (or is that excitement) in the EcoBound camp (Organisers of this event), who made the decision to host a second race on the following weekend to give more riders the opportunity to ride and experience this exclusive, limited entry event.
On the morning of race day, the clear Willowmore skies promised the riders ideal conditions. A promised kept with an added bonus of a tailwind all the way to Checkpoint 2 (Geelhoutbos) 104km into the race.
By the time the top teams reached the first of numerous challenging climbs, the Baviaansback, their races faces were on and the race pace continued over The Fangs and the infamous Mother Of all Climbs.
The leading bunch was formed, one of them being a mixed team (Sasol Racing). The game was on with teams separated by just a couple of minutes at each Checkpoint. All teams are required to Check-in at strategically placed Checkpoints on route. This is not just for control, but gives the riders the opportunity to have a rest and something to eat.
Part of the event dynamic is that the route is not marked. Each team is provided with a map to navigate their way through the Baviaans Kloof (SA’s largest wilderness area and now a heritage site). This requires riders to stay mentally sharp at all times, a challenge in its own for 230kms. Team Sporadies Normardies, the front runners for most of the way, took a wrong turn in the last 20km and lost their lead, still happily finishing with smiles on their faces, proving that just finishing an event like this makes them winners. Team Jeep took the win in a time of 8:29:58, almost breaking the former record.
Top 10 Teams:
Team Jeep
Powerbar 1
Aerocare -Proper Con
Sasol Racing
Sponsor Yourself
Atlas Copco Team 1
Four Brothers
Solar Wise
Demicon / Rocky Mounta
Bianchi
The last team Wild Rovers finished as the sun was rising over Jeffrey’s Bay, with a few hours to spare before the cut-off of 24 hours. These are the real heroes of the event, finishing in a time of 20:50:49.
As one of South Africa’s premier mountain biking events, this MTB
marathon creates the perfect combination of extremely challenging cycling amongst spectacular scenery through exquisite mountain ranges, right into the heart of the magnificent Baviaanskloof, all in a team format with a 24hour grueling cut off time.
The organisers are happy to report that there were no major casualties during the first event and they wish all the riders braving the mighty Baviaanskloof good luck for next weekend.
. Not fun doing NEVER ENDER and the last 27km. Did back up the first race and my mates had an awesome tail wind and half the DARN MUD the last 27km. We had a haed wind and more mud. 
I can STATE that there was a 1000% more better vibe with the 1st race compaired to the 2nd one. A great time was had by the 3 DAISIES TEAMS, we all finished without any bike mechanicals. Felt sory for the Lady from CHOC @CP2 that broke her Giant carbon XTC. It cracked in its chops. She was devastated. Her riding partner had to continue on his own. 
. Seems that she now has an issue with Giant regarding the replacement....
Awesome event!!!