The top names in South African mountain biking are starting to gather for the 2015 national marathon championships, which take place at the Van Gaalen Cheese Farm, Skeerpoort, in the North-West Province this Saturday.
The top names in South African mountain biking are starting to gather for the 2015 national marathon championships, which take place at the Van Gaalen Cheese Farm, Skeerpoort, in the North-West Province this Saturday.
The event, which is also the fourth round of the Ashburton Investments National MTB Series, has attracted a record 2 200 riders this year.
The stage is set for some nail-biting action as both the men’s and women’s champions – James Reid and Robyn de Groot – will be on the hunt for a hat-trick of wins.
De Groot is still coming back from recent injury and illness but has signalled her intent with a dominant victory at the Magalies Monster a fortnight ago.
Reid, who has already claimed the national and continental cross-country titles this year, will be looking to claim the triple crown.
Swiss rider Konny Looser currently heads the National MTB Series but will not be eligible for the SA champion’s title.
Waylon Woolcock, who is lying second in the standings, said the course would suit cross-country riders.
“The loose surfaces and punchy climbs will suit the cross-country specialists like James Reid, Rourke Croeser and Max Knox. Also, a rider like Johann Rabie, who is more a power climber.”
Woolcock is having one of his best seasons yet and, along with former teammate Darren Lill, will be hoping to add the national title to their CVs as they continue to search for a financial backer.
Former SA champ Max Knox, reigning series winner Nico Bell and Erik Kleinhans will start among the favourites.
Saturday’s ultra-marathon distance of 111km, with a total ascent of 1 780m, will separate the men from the boys.
In the 75km women’s race, which features 1 100m of climbing, De Groot will face stiff competition from 2012 champ Cherise Stander.
“It’s very exciting to finally be back in a position to compete for the title,” said Stander.
African cross-country titleholder Bianca Haw will make her debut in the elite category at the race. She will give the more experienced Stander and De Groot a run for their money, despite having fractured her elbow last month.
Others expected to be in medal contention include Yolandi du Toit, Candice Neethling, Carla van Huyssteen, Theresa Ralph, Jeannie Dreyer, Lisa Olivier and Janine Rawlinson.
The national champs will also offer racing in the youth, junior, sub-veteran, veteran, master and grandmaster age groups.
For more information, visit www.nationalmtbseries.com
