The Varsity MTB Challenge is set to return and alumni from various universities are ready to tackle the race in Paarl in the Cape Winelands in September.
The two-day event, which is in its second year, will see current and past students team up as they battle it out for top honours in pairs.
The Varsity MTB Challenge, sponsored by First National Bank, is open to alumni, students and the public.
It also features the Varsity Sports race, which will see six university teams go head to head in their official varsity colours.
Nederburg Wine Estate near Paarl will host the second Varsity MTB Challenge, sponsored by First National Bank, later this year. Photo: Supplied
Competitors in both categories will earn points for their universities.
FNB senior communication and sponsorship manager Mari van Niekerk said their sponsorship was a natural extension of their commitment to varsity sport.
“We see mountain biking as a popular and growing sport in South Africa and one that students have a keen interest in.
“With our focus on youth sport development, it is exciting to offer these young riders a platform to develop their skills and showcase their talent.
“The platform also gives alumni and supporters of the respective universities the opportunity to get involved and to back their universities again.”
Van Niekerk added that they were thrilled to see the race had reached wider audiences.
“As mentioned, we sponsor a number of high profile mountain biking races, so it’s already aligned to our sponsorship focus and selected target markets.”
The Varsity MTB Challenge will take place on trails in the Drakenstein mountains near Paarl and out towards Wellington.
