FORMER Sharks centre turned passionate mountain biker, Jeremy Thomson, is raring to go in this year’s Sappi Howick MTB Classic when the 2015 edition of the KZN Midlands clash takes place on Sunday, 7 June. This will be his third appearance in the race.
Known to most as a raw and unplugged mountain biking experience, Thomson said he appreciates the simplicity of the route and the true mountain biking test that the event offers participants.
“I am absolutely going to be there,” confirmed the former rugby ace enthusiastically. “The Sappi Howick MTB Classic is one that you can’t miss out on. I’ve taken part in this event a lot over the years and I love the trails up there. There’s a great mix of terrain that helps to keep the course fresh, and the organisers always change it up a bit each year as well,” he said.
This year’s participants are set to enjoy a near-new cycling experience as the 40km event’s route receives a complete make-over.
Many of the region’s renowned trails will still be included – many in a the reverse direction to what they have been ridden in over the past three years – including spectacular stretches on a single track through the vast Sappi plantations in the area.
“Some of the single tracks in Howick are right up there with my favourites of all time, and I cannot wait to ride them again,” explained Thomson.
Having achieved ninth place in last year’s event to go with his tenth in 2012, Thomson has proven time and again that he has what it takes to mix it up with some of the province’s regular top achievers at the annual Howick showdown.
Another top 10 finish will undoubtedly be lingering in the back of Thomson’s mind, despite still recovering from some time out of the saddle.
“I am busy coming back from a bit of a break after a tough start to the year. I rode the Cape Epic with Mathew Barrow in March and recently I have been enjoying three weeks away from the bike, so I will come into the Howick event a little bit underdone, but I will be out there to give it my best shot as I always do,” he said.
For more information visit www.howickmoun tainbiking.co.za.
