The Madibaz Mountain Bike XCO Series attracted a huge entry when the event kicked off at the NMMU campus in George this weekend, with a total of 120 riders entering the first race.
This is double the number which competed in the corresponding leg last year and augurs well for the future of the series. The remaining events will take place on June 10, August 27 and October 29.
Presented by Old Mutual Private Wealth Management, the series’ objective is to promote cross country racing in the Eden region, providing an opportunity for riders of all ages to experience the sport.
Race director Jan Venter said the first event had been “a great success”.
The first leg of the Madibaz Mountain Bike XCO Series got off to an excellent start at the weekend with 120 riders competing in various categories on the track at the NMMU George campus. Photo: Christopher Brooke
“We had 120 riders which is a 100 per cent increase from last year and all the feedback was positive,” he said.
“We did not expect so many entries and it is a sign that cross country and mountain bike racing have a great future in Eden.”
Venter said one element they would reconsider for the next leg would be to split the nippers and sprogs categories “to make for easier riding for the youngsters”.
“We will probably make a few minor changes to the course and the next event will have a different race route with new technical surprises.”
Sport manager at the George campus, Hugo Loubser, said the series, which was also supported by Ridelife George, Giant South Africa and Tippeton, was open to everyone.
“Besides promoting cross country racing in the region, we want to provide the community with healthy lifestyle options,” he added.
