A major incentive has been dangled as a carrot for early entrants to the Sanlam MTB Invitational near Paarl in November with those beating the July 29 deadline receiving the latest in backpacks.
While the race will be held at Rhebokskloof on November 19 and 20, those who enter before July 29 will be in line to receive a Scicon Solargenome Hydracharge backpack.
Race director Darren Herbst, from ASG Events, said the ergonomic hydration pack produced by presenting sponsors Scicon was equipped with the latest generation solar panel and other winning features.
The backpack, he said, was constructed of lightweight materials and had a functional design that made it the ideal companion for any outdoor activities.
Cyclists wanting to enter the Sanlam MTB Invitational, which is co-presented by the City of Drakenstein, can also benefit from Scicon’s involvement in the event in terms of secure cycling transportation.
The Italian-based company, whose specialty is to take away the stress of travelling to events, will offer a range of exclusive offers to participants.
While the event prides itself in promoting a family culture, Herbst emphasised that the race was open to all members of the public.
“Anyone can enter, but we also encourage families to enter as father and son, mother and son, father and daughter or mother and daughter combinations,” said Herbst.
“We have received entries of 1 000-plus in the last two years and we are confident we will get another big field.”
Besides the family connection on the road, Herbst said a tented package on the Saturday would also make for an ideal family camping opportunity at the race village.
Herbst said he would be travelling to the Western Cape next week to assess the route options.
“While we must still identify the exact way we are going to go, we are confident we will be able to provide something all the riders will enjoy,” he said.
Keeping the focus on providing an incentive for the younger set, there will be a number of prizes in the siblings’ category, sponsored by Sanlam and ASG. These include Rudy Project eyewear and helmets, High 5 supplement hampers and Scicon backpacks.
For more info, or to enter, visit www.sanlammtbinvitational.co.za.