The iMfolozi MTB Challenge celebrated a joint-win when Klaas Meintjies and Neville Schuit crossed the line together after the 55km battle on Saturday.
The iMfolozi MTB Challenge takes place over wild and rugged terrain. Photo: Em Gatland
Meintjies and Schuit finished in a time of 2:32:00, followed by Michael Montgomery 11 minutes later.
The women’s race was won by Elaine Carter-Brown in 3:21:00, with Jenni Soutar second in 3:41:00 and Sophia Rollo third in 3:43:00.
Ideal weather conditions saw riders burning up the course through the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve and shaving more than an hour off the 2015 winning time.
The route took riders through spectacular scenery and also gave them the experience of seeing game up close and personal.
“Few things are as thrilling as being within arm’s length of a wild animal, especially one of the Big Five,” said race organiser Stu Berry.
As always, the annual race’s biggest winner was conservation, with the 300 riders contributing to saving the critically endangered African wild dog.
“With funds raised through the iMfolozi Challenge, the rangers can ensure more effective behaviour-based management and rapid response around any illegal activity, incidents or threats to wildlife,” said Dr Andrew Venter, CEO of Wildlands.
Stihl also handed over R20 000 worth of equipment to the Impi Foundation, which will be used by the rangers who work day and night to protect the heritage.
