The Attakwas Extreme, taking place in Oudtshoorn on January 21, has been given a boost after being granted International Cycling Union (UCI) status.
The 121km point-to-point race from the Karoo town to Groot Brak River celebrates its 11th edition next year by offering more prize-money, increased media coverage and a strong international field.
The Attakwas Extreme MTB Challenge celebrates its 11th edition next year by offering more prize money, increased media coverage and a strong international field. Photo: www.zcmc.co.za
Top overseas competitors and leading South African marathon racers will be enticed by the UCI rankings points on offer for an event with a reputation for being one of the toughest marathons in mountain bike racing.
The route takes competitors through the Attakwas Reserve, an unforgiving wilderness area with steep gradients and rough terrain.
There are over 3 000m of accumulated vertical ascent and riders have 11 hours to complete the distance, with the top men clocking just under five hours and the leading women around 5:45.
“Attakwas is a truly South African endurance sports event. We have positioned it in the same league as the Comrades Marathon is for running,” said Henco Rademeyer of Dryland Event Management.
“It’s a big deal to just finish it for many of the participants, but it’s also a high quality challenge for the top racers.”
