The quest by the 36ONE Storms River Traverse to keep its status as the country’s most family-friendly mountain bike stage event has resulted in a record influx of early entries for the race taking place from August 8 to 10.
The 36ONE Storms River Traverse offers one of the most scenic routes through and around the Tsitsikama National Park. Photo: www.oakpics.co.za
The only mountain bike stage race that includes the coastline of the Tsitsikama National Park in its route has just a limited number of the 200 places remaining and organisers, Dryland Event Management, are certain these will be filled soon.
“One of our male competitors once said that after returning from stage races he usually loses ‘credits’ with his wife, but after returning from the 36ONE Storms River Traverse, he gains ‘credits’ because he gets to take his wife with him,” smiled Carel Herholdt of Dryland Event Management.
“Our focus at this event is on enjoyment rather than suffering. There are many events, including some of our other races, where suffering levels are high, so the 36ONE Storms River Traverse offers a refreshing change.
“The route is still challenging of course, but the stages aren’t excessively long and the riders’ supporters and family have a full programme to keep everyone satisfied,” added Herholdt.
With each stage starting and finishing at the Tsitsikama Village Inn Hotel, the logistics for riders and their supporters are reduced to a minimum, especially since most of the participants stay at the Village Inn Hotel, which has colonial style cottage rooms, set in well-manicured gardens.
“We have as many spouses and children at the event as we do riders. It’s the most unique atmosphere and it all takes place in a stunning part of the country. There’s also so much to do off the bike in that area, which is a popular tourist destination, but which isn’t too crowded during that time of the year,” said Herholdt.
