MTB skills training strengthens bikers’ hill attacks

THERE was a big group of enthusiastic people at the Amanzimtoti Cycling Club skills practice this week.

Gavin Harvey showed mountain bike riders how to lift their front wheel so that it is easier to get over obstacles and how to position their bodies for steep descents.

There was quite a bit of upper body action going on, with the wheel popping and a couple of slides off the back of the saddle from the super strong guys.

The drop-offs were done at speed and with control and then all had to pedal back up the steep ascents, allowing the bike to come up to the body by relaxing the elbows. There were two tiny guys on tiny bikes who had no fear, attacking the downhills with gusto.

The XC race was once again well attended, with Sean Janse van Ransburg’s team almost winning for the second weekend running but unfortunately, he and Hennie Nell ran out of steam and Gavin Harvey and Willie took the prize money. Next week there will be a bit of bike fixing skills at the clinic. Thanks for the support and enthusiasm. Anyone is welcome to join in on a Sunday. Helmets are a necessity. For more details, call Caryn Harvey on 082-357-5287.

The roadies took to the smooth tar past uMnini dam on Saturday morning. The ride went past the back of Sappi before they turned and attacked the steep hill back home. They achieved the huge feat of a 15% gradient climb. That is one giant of a hill to pedal up. The road team is growing rapidly, with quite a few women joining this fun bunch of riders. They meet up in the mornings at 5am at Engen garage in Rockview road for their training sessions. Contact road captain Colin Bedingfield for details on 083-657-7416.

Well done Andrew Jones and Hendrick Bester on completing the Comrades. The club salutes them.

The Toti 69er road race is to be held on Sunday, 12 July and the club is looking for anyone willing to marshall for this race. Contact Barry Walker with your name on 083-459-8253.