Muddy but memorable wrap-up to the Glacier Storms River Traverse

The three day Glacier Storms River Traverse wrapped up with a final beautifully scenic stage through the Tsitsikamma Forest on Monday the 8th of August. The race victory was secured by Etnard Louw and Hanco Kachelhoffer of Team NFB Altech Autopage but their elation was shared by every rider in the field.

Anthony Fogel cranks up a forest climb during Stage 3 of the Glacier Storms River Traverse. Photo by: Oakpics.com.

Riders were treated to clear skies throughout the third and final stage, which didn’t seem likely during Sunday night when the heavens opened for a typical Storms River downpour. Fortunately the rain blew over and although the Stage 3 route was the wettest of the race it didn’t damped anyone’s spirits.

The race leaders, including Hanco Kachelhoffer and Etnard Louw, crossing the Storms River. Photo by Oakpics.com.

Louw and Kachelhoffer rode to an assured stage victory to claim the general classification victory, despite Louw crashing spectacularly on a muddy descent. The leading mixed team remained Yolande de Villiers and Neill Ungerer, who capped a fine weekend – during which they proved to be the most festive of the riders competing for overall victory – with another stage victory. The women’s team category saw Wendy Brand and Tania Hanekom claim stage and general classification victory after the Cape Brewing Co women dropped out of contention.

Wynand Louw navigates a tricky descent during the final stage of the Glacier Storms River Traverse. Photo by: Oakpics.com.

The muddy trails meant that the water point support crew had to work overtime cleaning drivetrains as the riders enjoyed the treats on offer at the water point tables. The highlights of the Stage 3 route were the long indigenous forest sections, where the sunlight filtered through the leaves and Knysna louries called from the canopy. Though the riding was by no means tough, the average pace dropped for the final stage as the riders seemed to be soaking up every last moment at the Glacier Storms River Traverse.

Mixed category winners Neill Ungerer and Yolande de Villiers lead the field through the indegenious forests of the Tsitsikamma. Photo by Oakpics.com.

As the riders crossed the finish line and enjoyed a final scrumptious lunch the conversation around the lunch tables soon turned to the 2017 Glacier Storms River Traverse. And though entries aren’t open yet many an accommodation booking was made for next year’s race. For riders who enjoy the socialising after each stage as much as they do the actual riding the Glacier Storms River Traverse truly is a must do event.

Warren Medina e Vasconcelos and Attie Jacobs celebrate completing the Glacier Storms River Traverse. Photo by: Oakpics.com.