The entry date deadline for next weekend’s Liberty Winelands Encounter has been extended until Friday (April 5), providing a reprieve for those who thought they might have missed out.
In announcing the extension on April Fool’s Day, ASG Events chief executive officer Erick Oosthuizen assured riders that “this is no joke” and added that the closing date for the three-stage mountain-bike race was now at 1pm on Friday.
The Winelands Encounter will take place on the scenic trails around Franschhoek and Paarl from April 12 to 14.
“We still have a number of spaces available in the various categories and this includes the popular hotel option, which has all the ingredients to make it a memorable racing experience,” said Oosthuizen.
Riders wishing to compete in the Liberty Winelands Encounter have been granted a reprieve, with the closing date for entries extended to Friday (April 5) at 1pm. The three-day mountain-bike race takes place near Franschhoek and Paarl from April 12 to 14. Photo: Robert Ward
The four-star Le Franschhoek Hotel is the base of the race for the first two days before the finish at the Nederburg Wine Estate in Paarl on the Sunday.
Hotel general manager Chris Snyman said the hotel was a popular option for cyclists who wanted to tackle the well-known routes in the Cape Winelands.
“We have numerous clients who come throughout the year to explore the road and mountain-bike options in the region,” he said.
“We offer a peaceful environment where the cyclists can relax on the 11-hectare property. Our facilities include a pool, jacuzzi and spa treatments, or they can just enjoy the spacious surrounding of their rooms in a tranquil setting.”
Oosthuizen said that while the hotel option remained the most popular among the cyclists, there was also space available in the remaining categories.
“We have the basic option, which excludes accommodation but includes breakfast and lunch each day.
“This year we have introduced a solo category as well to accommodate riders who may prefer this to the team concept.”
