The Ride2Nowhere race offers a special opportunity for mountain bikers to explore the remoteness around McGregor in the Western Cape from September 7.
The three-day event offers “Karoo” riding, which is typically more rugged and technical than the groomed trails found at many other races.
Riders have access to routes and trails that are not open to the public and have been created exclusively for Ride2Nowhere.
Mountain bikers will be able to explore the remoteness around McGregor in the Western Cape when the three-day Ride2Nowhere starts on September 7. Photo: Supplied
The trails take riders into some remote areas that will make them feel as if they are riding in the middle of nowhere.
The event, which features short and long route options, is capped at 400 entries between the solo, team and mixed categories.
The limited field ensures that there is no congestion on the route, which means you can enjoy the trails at your own pace.
All in all, the route offers a good challenge to racing snakes while being doable for weekend warriors.
The epic trails are not the only reason why riders return year after year. Past entrants will more than likely tell you that it is all about the “vibe”.
Central to this is the quirky town of McGregor, around which the race is based.
“There is a really cool atmosphere at the race,” said Erik Kleinhans, who won last year’s team category alongside Robert Hobson. “It’s very social and the vibe, and wine, is good.”
What’s in the name?
The event is named after the road that runs from Robertson to McGregor and straight up into the mountains.
This “road to nowhere” was originally planned to run all the way to Greyton and, from there, to Cape Town.
However, when the town of McGregor (formally known as Lady Grey) was established, work on the road to Greyton was stopped and never completed.
Firm favourite
Ride2Nowhere is a firm favourite on the South African stage-racing calendar.
Why?
Because it’s fun, friendly, foody, family-centric and festive.
Top reasons to enter
• Partial payment deal option (50% to secure your spot, 50% by end of July);
• Receive an event-specific Ciovita cycling jersey valued at R800;
• Home-cooked rider and supporter meal packages;
• Waterpoints stocked with Hammer Nutrition products;
• Hammer Nutrition recovery drink at the finish;
• Bottomless aQuellé water;
• Free waterwise bike wash by Namgear;
• Finisher gift valued at R150 from Lord’s Wines;
• Day care service for kids;
• Spectator points for family and friends and a fun trail run (6km and 12km) on the Saturday.
Route overview
Long
Stage 1: 60km; 1 350m ascent
Stage 2: 68km; 1 460m ascent
Stage 3: 48km; 990m ascent
Short
Stage 1: 39km; 840m ascent
Stage 2: 47.5km; 960m ascent
Stage 3: 37km; 700m ascent
Packages
Solo or team
• All meals: R4 850 per person (highly recommended as there are limited dining options in town);
• Lunch only: R4 320 per person;
• No meals: R3 850 per person.
More info & entries
Info: www.ride2nowhere.co.za
Entries: https://entries.ride2nowhere.co.za
Entries close July 31 or when the limit is reached.
