The breath-taking scenery, diverse landscape and quiet dirt roads of the Overberg region provided the backdrop for the 5th Annual Staalwater MTB Challenge and Spring Trail Run this weekend, 6-7 September.
The fun-filled weekend was hosted by Dirtopia at The Caledon Casino, Hotel, Spa and Entertainment and catered to both amateur and advanced mountain bikers and trail runners of all ages. Those who preferred not to get their hands dirty opted for spa treatments and delicious meals instead.
Meurant Botha from Dirtopia says, “This was the second year we included the Spring Trail Run which took place on Saturday (6 September). Runners were given the option of either a 7km or 15km trail run and the turn-out was nothing less than spectacular with over 100 participants taking part in the fun.”
Fast becoming a favourite annual ride for mountain bikers, the Staalwater MTB Challenge saw bikers from all walks of life take on either a 15km, 37km or 60km route on Sunday (7 September).
The Caledon Casino, Hotel, Spa and Entertainment Marketing Manager, Ailsa van Wyk says, “This is the 5th year we’ve hosted the Mountain Bike Challenge on the property and we were pleased to see such a great turn-out with over 500 mountain bikers participating in this year’s event.”
“Luckily, the weather conditions were good and our participants did not have to deal with any additional challenges resulting from heavy rain or wind. It really was an unbelievably fun event for outdoor-loving families,” van Wyk concludes.
The long distance mountain bike event was won by Dominic Calitz, followed by Jarryd Haley in second place and Craig Boyes in third. It was a tight race, as the three stayed together for most of the ride. In the ladies it was Adrian Vera, Michelle Lombardi & Anel Henn in the top three.
The next big event on the calendar is the Spur MTB Classic to be held in the Helderberg on 28 September. For more information visit www.dirtopia.co.za.
Well done Michelle Lombardi !! Still an incredible athlete after all these years !