The third of the Dirtopia 2016 Enduro series was held from Val De Charron wine & olive Estate near Wellington this weekend, 11 & 12 June. Top Veteran rider Gary Barnard proved to be fastest once again with an overall time for 8 special stages of only 30 minutes 45 seconds.
Barnard won the same event in 2015 and complimented the riding and social atmosphere for an enjoyable weekend for all. About 75 riders entered for Saturday and more than 90 for Sunday. Both days had four stages on the well-known MTB trails of Welvanpas.
The new start and finish venue offered top class food and drink to the riders with incredible views of the mountains. Although chilly in the morning, the weather was perfect for riding and the trails were in great condition.
Even the liaison stages were enjoyed, although the climbing proved to be tough. Riders are only timed on the downhill stages though, were real skill has to be shown.
Overall winners on Saturday following Gary in the Men category: Louis Knipe and third Thomas Roodt. In the ladies the top three were Gina Nixon, Arina Botha and Sune Henning.
Sunday Overall were Gary Barnard, Mark Hopkins and Louis Knipe. Ladies Rika Olivier, Gina Nixon and her daughter, Jessi Nixon in third place.
Category prizes were given for both days over eight stages and here the winners were Gary Barnard, Mark Hopkins and Darren Stow.
Full results are available on www.trailtag.co.za and photos can be views on www.photosport.co.za. See the Dirtopia website for the calendar of events www.dirtopia.co.za.
Next Enduro at Helderberg trails on 21 August and entries are open. Sponsors: Leatt, cSixx, Bike Hub, Giant Bicycles and Falke socks.
