So today, 31 August 2013, was the inaugural Hopefield Fynbos MTB Event and for a first time event I would call it a big success with an attendance number of 72 riders far surpassing the organizer’s mark he would have been happy with. As with it being August and any event lately being at the mercy of the weather the 72km event did get cancelled on number 99 due to the fact that the river levels rose to high making the route unsafe. None the less the 46km and 13km routes were still a go and in hindsight given the conditions I think the 72km would have been a leg breaker for me but then again I was pushing my threshold today seeing as it was a “race” vs my normal weekend solo riding . Though the routes was not technical the rain made for some interesting riding conditions with lots of standing water to negotiate and demanding constant power to the pedals making me appreciate the fact that the overall elevation gain on the 46km route was only 225 meters but that did not make the route easier on the legs either. For the route itself I must complement the organizer as the route was well marked and even had marshals at key points making going of track virtually impossible that is a tendency of mine . I do know that a comment was made on one section of the route that could have had more markers especially if you didn’t know the route or had an idea of the route. Personally I didn’t find it a problem but I do see the logic to the comment because it was a rather long stretch of road with connecting side roads. Besides the standing water the route mostly consisted of wide gravel roads (enough for two way traffic by cars) between the farms. The roads were smoothish for the most part baring the water erosion and sections demanding some power to navigate the muddy stuff but nothing extreme. This is definitely a route that any beginner could manage. To my knowledge only 3 riders had the misfortune not to be able to finish on their bikes due to breakage and some riders did make it but did under estimate the track vs their ability but managed to tough it out to the end and kudo’s to them . I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the organizer Willem Shoeman and all those involved (Sponsors, Marshals, Volunteers, outside Clubs etc) for bring us this event especially given that it was put together in less than a month. I would also like to thank all those riders that came out today and took the gamble with the weather to be blessed with a break in the rain for the most part of the race. Besides the standing water and bit of a slushfest to quote a fellow rider I think we could not have asked for a better turnout. I will update this thread with some picture as soon as I get some from the organizer and friends and I know one of the okes will be doing a recap of the race from his gopro footage so I will link that too as soon as it is available. For all those here on thehub that attended you are more than welcome to give your feedback and suggestions as I will pass it on to the organizer for future reference. I do know that he told me he is planning to do two of these events in the future, one to be held in the winter and one in the summer. Also on a side note it was great to put some faces to online names (thehub and Facebook alike) it was pleasure meeting you guys in person for a change! Happy and safe cycling B)
