Amanzimtoti Cycle Club members competed in the Safire Baynesfield MTB Classic, a one-day mountain bike event that offers four distances of 65km, 45km, 20km and 10km, which is a fun way to introduce young riders to racing, unlike the 65km which is not for the faint-hearted and best suited to the serious rider with real staying power.
Riders started in cool conditions, but that didn’t last long and soon it was perfect weather for a course that has a bit of everything that a mountain biker could wish for – four steady long climbs, raw untamed track through beautiful vegetation that certainly tests most riders’ skill levels. There were a few rocks to navigate, but the track running next to the beautiful Baynesfield Dam seemed to go on as did the exhilarating, teeth-rattling, super-fast downhills.
One has to respect the hills this race has – Baynesfield’s main climb is the first, which is 9.82km and an elevation of 470m. The second, known as the Baynesfield Breaker, is 8.63km long, with an elevation of 441m. Shackleton (4.09km/194m) and a classic climb (4.58km/196m) complete the climbs.
With so much beauty to admire, it was great that the track was superbly marked. Watering tables were well stocked and there were friendly folk who greeted everyone who finally made it to the finish line.
Malcolm Evans and Helena Muir both managed to come second in their age categories in the 45km.
The club holds its AGM on Wednesday, 16 October at Amanzimtoti Sports Centre (club house) at 7.30pm.
While everyone is invited, only paid-up members can vote. Pay 2019 membership fees with 2018s prices on or before the AGM and send email Karin Liebenberg proof at karinliebenberg@therugby.co.za.
Among other topics, the unveiling of new committee members is to be expected. Make sure your nomination form is sent to Sue Martin before Sunday, 6 October.
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