GAUTENG will be hosting the once-off 2014 South African National MTB Championships, which incorporates the cross-country and downhill disciplines at Thaba Trails on July 19 and 20.
Race organiser Wendell Bole has hosted several National Cup races over the past few years, and is tweaking the routes ahead of the prestigious championship event this winter.
The cross-country (XCO) track currently measures between four to four and a half kilometres, and includes a few new rock gardens to bring the total to seven. Each technical section also offers a B-line for the less technical riders.
More rocks have been added to the downhill (DHI) track, which has also been revamped since the 2013 National Cup Series event. Bole estimates that the reworked track adds approximately 15-20 seconds to the descent.
Route maps and route profiles are not yet finalised and will be disseminated in due course, as will entry details and a list of recommended accommodation options in the area.
