[Event] Vines and Views MTB Classic 2022

[ChrisF]

Event Name: Vines and Views MTB Classic 2022
When: 03/09/2022
Where: Die Keldery Vredendal, , Vredendal, Vredendal, Western Cape
Category: Mountain Bike

The Vines and Views MTB Classic was the most talked about event of 2021 and excitement for 3 September is boiling over! In this newsletter we’re going to address some of the most frequently asked questions.

ROUTE: The link to the full route description (75km) appears at the end of this newsletter. The 55km and 30km events share the same route, albeit in different segments. The routes are not overly technical, although not suitable for gravel bikes. Weather wise, you needn’t lose too much sleep. Vredendal and surroundings have a very mild climate in September. In the unlikely event of rain, the trails have very good drainage and should pose little trouble. Sand? We don’t do sand. Small sandy patches on the mountain normally compacts very nicely after the winter rain and should pose no problems. You needn’t pack a GPS. Our trails are well marked.

Many events claim this, but we’ll prove that this trail is TRULY UNIQUE. This event was designed to cater for every type of rider while adding some unique features not seen on the mountain bike circuit. Trails are built by experienced and passionate mountain bikers. 70% jeep track; 25% gravel road; 5% single-track (75km route). This is truly the one trail to rule them all.

The 75km and 55km events start at Die Keldery at 07:30 and 08:15 respectively. The 30km event starts at Idma@Kapel at 09:00. (Basic transport from the finish venue to the start of the 30km event is available. Details will be communicated at Friday’s race briefing.) 

All 3 distances end at Die Keldery (where we’ll resume festivities....) 

75km: 4 waterpoints

55km: 3 waterpoints

30km: 1 waterpoint

The LUTZVILLE VINEYARDS VASBYT HILL CLIMB CHALLENGE, presented by Lutzville Vineyards, has seen a major revamp from last year. The infamous Skaapkop will be challenged from a different angle which allows riders a fantastic panoramic view of the valley. The “party on the hill” will also have a different setup to allow more serious racers to pass unobstructed. The first 3 places in both men and lady’s categories will win prizes, compliments of Lutzville Vineyards. Just make sure you’re on Strava!

LOCATION of the various venues and POI’s will be send two weeks prior the event.

REGISTRATION will open on Thursday 1 Sept at Klawer Wine Cellar from 12:00-16:00 and Friday 2 Sept from 08:00-12:00. This gives riders who stay in the outskirts of town and/or want to make a long weekend of the festival, a more suitable option for registration. The main registration will commence at Idma@Kapel (same as last year) on Friday 2 Sept from 16:00-20:00. There will be 2 race briefings on Friday at 18:00 and 19:00. Please try and attend these as vital information will be shared. Furthermore, a bunch of lucky draws and festivities await at the main registration. Late registrations and entries on race day will only be done between 06:00 and 07:00 at Die Keldery. Late entries on race day do not qualify for goodie bags.

RACETEC/CSA: Riders not in possession of a Racetec timing board (compulsory) can purchase one at registration at R50 each. The same applies to a Cycling SA rider permit. CSA day licenses can be bought at registration.

PRIZE GIVING: Relaxed Covid regulations allow us to host a prize giving on race Saturday at 12:30. Further lucky draws will also be handed out.

ONLINE SHOP: Please have look at the Idma meal option for Friday. These meals can only be booked in advance. Boerewors rolls will be sold on site. Please support NGK Klawer’s lovely picnic at Klawer Wine Cellar on Sunday 4 Sept. Have a look at the picnic boxes in our online store as well as the “grab & go” option, ideal for riders in a hurry home. And the big news! Don’t be caught napping with our stunning new cycling shirts. Get yours ASAP as these stocks are limited and flying! If you have a query regarding sizing, please e-mail us.

SPECTATOR POINT. Teubes Wines is a classy wine estate adjacent to the finish venue. This year riders will turn at the fountain on the porch of Teubes Wines’ tasting room/restaurant. This means spectators will have much more engagement with riders. This is the perfect place to enjoy some splendid food and beverages while viewing the event literally within touching distance of the riders. Teubes Wines has a playground to keep the kids entertained while supporters enjoy the spectacle. There will also be a marquee tent with live music to keep the die-hard adventure seekers entertained until late on Saturday.

FUN RUN/WALK/RIDE at Teubes Family Wines on race Saturday 09:30. Supporters can sleep a bit later and join a relaxed outing through the vineyards of Teubes Wines. The distance is roughly 5km and the route is the final 5km of the cycling events’. It’s easy and relaxed. Online entry is not required. Donations can be done by means of an honesty box. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. A tractor pulled cart will carry fun runners/walkers back to Teubes Wines, just in time to watch the cyclists passing through.

ACCOMMODATION: There are several options ranging from rustic camping & glamping to stylish B&B’s but do not wait until the last minute to book your lodging. Vines and Views coincides with the annual wildflower season in the region, so make sure you book your lodging well in advance. Please e-mail Eonie at wine@visitnwc.com for assistance in this regard.

MEDICS are on standby, but please pack your own medicine particularly in case of allergies (bee sting).

Go to Event Page.

[ChrisF]

This promises to be an exceptional WEEKEND 

 

The way this community got together to present this event is just stunning.

 

Friday afternoon, and into the night, the registration is at Idma@Kapel.  With braai pack options.  The start is on another farm.  The water points include yet more farms and wine cellars.

 

It is FLOWER SEASON in the West Coast.  And with the heavy rains in June it promises to be an exceptional flower season.

 

Expecting some truly awesome views along the cycling routes.

 

 

PS - It IS flower season .... accommodation is at a premium ....  The tour operators have booked out most accommodation.

 

PPS - If you were at Trans Augrabies you will recognise a lot of faces at Vines and Views 

[Skubarra]

Very sad that its a timed event now...

Was so much fun when it was untimed with some Strava segments to chase

Will be there again this year with the family, event had a great vibe

[ChrisF]

6 minutes ago, Skubarra said:

Very sad that its a timed event now...

Was so much fun when it was untimed with some Strava segments to chase

Will be there again this year with the family, event had a great vibe

 

Looking at the event format .... the "water table" format that is ..... doubt the larger group will be too worried about timing 

 

I am now working on another mounting point for a second GoPro on my bike .... and trying to figure out what camera to take along in the back pack.

[Skubarra]

37 minutes ago, ChrisF said:

 

Looking at the event format .... the "water table" format that is ..... doubt the larger group will be too worried about timing 

 

I am now working on another mounting point for a second GoPro on my bike .... and trying to figure out what camera to take along in the back pack.

I'm just wired that way - if there is a clock ticking somewhere while I'm cycling I get anxious to go faster, no clock and I'm relaxed... But seriously I felt big part of the good vibe last year was the no timing, hope its the same this year! 

[ChrisF]

HOPE I dont pull another Trans Augrabies on myself ..... 

 

Plan was a SLOW start .... enjoy the vibe and take lots of pics.

 

A mechanical issue just after the start saw me loose 5 minutes .... full taps to catch up !!!  And then I just kept the pace ....

[eddie.lubbe]

You needn't worry about the timing issue.  We had a lot of response from riders who wanted the race timed so it's always a challenge to please everyone.  The event was actually "timed" last year as well - we had a GC on Strava.  However, when I started this thing last year I was adament to create a truly unique event which includes a unique trail, features and relaxed vibe.  We will not budge on that.  The "fun zones" are MUCH more this year.  Lots more sponsor activations, lucky draws, prizes, wine tastings, etc.  I actually expect only a handful of people will race it.  The event lends itself to a great weekend of cycling festival.

[ct_rider]

This event clashes with Race to Sea 🙃

[ChrisF]

2 hours ago, ct_rider said:

This event clashes with Race to Sea 🙃

 

Yes, we are spoilt for choice.

Couple of events on that weekend.  Pretty sure there will be many more clashes as the cycling season takes off.

 

Eselfontein just a few weeks later .... 

 

 

By all accounts Vines and Views are so much more than just the time in the saddle.

 

I get time in the saddle, with exceptional views.  Perfect opportunity to take a camera along on the ride ....  A stunning day with like minded people.  AND, my wife gets a long weekend with an extra day to take in the flowers.

 

[Skubarra]

6 hours ago, eddie.lubbe said:

You needn't worry about the timing issue.  We had a lot of response from riders who wanted the race timed so it's always a challenge to please everyone.  The event was actually "timed" last year as well - we had a GC on Strava.  However, when I started this thing last year I was adament to create a truly unique event which includes a unique trail, features and relaxed vibe.  We will not budge on that.  The "fun zones" are MUCH more this year.  Lots more sponsor activations, lucky draws, prizes, wine tastings, etc.  I actually expect only a handful of people will race it.  The event lends itself to a great weekend of cycling festival.

Tx Eddie - really loved the event & vibe you guys created last year. We have already booked to be back again this year 👍

[ChrisF]

[ChrisF]

The Vines and Views MTB Classic is MUCH MORE THAN A CYCLE RACE.  It has a distinct character and unique features which sets it apart from any other event. 

 

We don’t copy, we don’t follow, we spell UNIQUE in capital letters and we certainly won’t disappoint.  Herewith the UPDATED information regarding THE cycling festival of the year.

 

ROUTE:  The link to the full route description (75km) appears at the end of this newsletter.  The 75km, 55km and 30km events share the same route, albeit in different sections.  The routes are not overly technical, although not suitable for gravel bikes. 

 

The 75km is a challenging race that requires decent levels of fitness, but from a technical point of view it is doable for the average mountain biker.  We regularly test the trails with lesser skilled riders to ensure we strike a balance. 

 

Weather wise, you needn’t lose too much sleep.  Vredendal and surroundings have a very mild climate in September.  In the unlikely event of rain, the trails have very good drainage and should pose little trouble.  Sand?  We don’t do sand.  Small sandy patches on the mountain normally compacts very nicely after the winter rain and should pose no problems.  You needn’t pack a GPS.  Our trails are well marked.

 

Many events claim this, but we’ll prove that this trail is TRULY UNIQUE.  This event was designed to cater for every type of rider while adding some unique features not seen on the mountain bike circuit.  Trails are built by experienced and passionate mountain bikers.  70% jeep track; 25% gravel road; 5% single-track (75km route).  This is truly the one trail to rule them all.

 

Please note!  While this event has a festive character, we also cater for the serious racer.  Whether you’re a racing snake or simply a laid-back weekend warrior, we’ll tick your box.  However, the 75km event has a 4-hour cut-off at the 50km mark.  This is to ensure farm roads and gates can be reopened for normal service.

 

Teaser ALERT:  Have you ever ridden your bike through an enormous cucumber greenhouse?  Through a wine cellar?  (Not past a cellar – through a cellar!)  On a riverbank in full flood?  A canal system?  How about a selfie at a wine tasting on top of a spectacular hill?  

 

The 75km and 55km events start at Die Keldery at 07:30 and 08:15 respectively.  The 30km event starts at Idma@Kapel (about 5km from the finish venue) at 09:00.  All 3 distances end at Die Keldery (where we’ll resume festivities....) 

 

Note on the 30km event:  A shuttle from the finish venue to the start of the 30km event is available.  You can park at the finish venue and hop on a truck to the starting point, free of charge, courtesy of Idma@Kapel.  Details will be communicated at Friday’s race briefing. 

75km:  5 waterpoints (1 tech zone)

55km:  4 waterpoints (1 tech zone)

30km:  2 waterpoints (no tech zone)

 

The LUTZVILLE VINEYARDS VASBYT HILL CLIMB CHALLENGE, presented by Lutzville Vineyards, has seen a major revamp from last year. The infamous Skaapkop will be challenged from a different angle which allows riders a fantastic panoramic view of the valley.  The “party on the hill” will also have a different setup to allow more serious racers to pass unobstructed.  The first 3 places in both men and lady’s KOM/QOM categories will win huge prizes, compliments of Lutzville Vineyards.  Just make sure you’re on Strava!

 

LOCATION of the various venues will be communicated 2 weeks prior the event.

 

REGISTRATION will open on Thursday 1 Sept at Klawer Wine Cellar from 12:00-16:00 and Friday 2 Sept from 08:00-12:00.  This gives riders who stay in the outskirts of town and/or want to make a long weekend of the festival, a more suitable option for registration.  The main registration will commence at Idma@Kapel (same as last year) on Friday 2 Sept from 16:00-21:00.  There will be 2 race briefings on Friday at 18:00 and 19:00.  Please try and attend this as vital information will be shared.  Furthermore, a bunch of lucky draws and festivities await at the main registration.  Late registrations and late entries will only be done on race day between 06:00 and 07:00 at Die Keldery.  Late entries on race day do not qualify for goodie bags.

 

FINISH VENUE:  Die Keldery restaurant and function venue will once again host the finish of ALL events, including the fun run/ride.  This stylish setting will have plenty of food and beverage options to choose from.  Carefully selected music sets compiled by DCS Media, conducive to this exceptional cycling festival, will keep you entertained in the huge entertainment area and lawn.  The finish venue also has ‘n kiddies play area.  Bring the whole family!

 

RACETEC/CSA:  Riders not in possession of a Racetec timing board (compulsory) can purchase one at registration at R50 each.  The same applies to a Cycling SA rider permit.  This event is sanctioned by Cycling South Africa (CSA).  CSA day licenses can be bought at registration.

 

PRIZE GIVING:  Relaxed Covid regulations allow us to host a prize giving on race Saturday at 12:30. Further lucky draws will also be handed out.  We have thousands of Rands of giveaways at both Friday’s registration and Saturday’s prize giving.  Don’t miss it!

 

ONLINE SHOP:  Please have look at the Idma meal option for Friday.  These meals can only be booked in advance.  Boerewors rolls will be sold on site. 

 

Please support NGK Klawer’s lovely picnic at Klawer Wine Cellar on Sunday 4 Sept.  Have a look at the picnic boxes in our online store as well as the “grab & go” option, ideal for visitors in a hurry home. 

 

And the big news!  Don’t be caught napping with our stunning new CYCLING SHIRTS.  Get yours ASAP as these stocks are limited and flying!  If you have a query regarding sizing, please e-mail us.

 

SPECTATOR POINT.  Teubes Wines is a classy wine estate adjacent to the finish venue.  This year riders will turn at the fountain on the porch of Teubes Wines’ tasting room/restaurant.  This means spectators will have much more engagement with riders.  This is the perfect place to enjoy some splendid food and beverages while viewing the event within touching distance of the riders.  Teubes Wines has a playground to keep the kids entertained while supporters enjoy the spectacle.  There will also be a marquee tent with live music to keep the die-hard adventure seekers entertained until late on Saturday.

 

FUN RUN/WALK/RIDE at Teubes Family Wines on race Saturday 09:30. Supporters can sleep a bit later and join a relaxed outing through the vineyards of Teubes Wines.  The distance is roughly 5km and the route is the final 5km of the cycling events.  It’s easy and relaxed.  Online entry is not required.  Donations can be done by means of an honesty box.  Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.  A tractor pulled cart will carry fun runners/walkers back to Teubes Wines, just in time to watch the cyclists passing through.

 

ACCOMMODATION:  There are several options ranging from rustic camping & glamping to stylish B&B’s but do not wait until the last minute to book your lodging.  Vines and Views coincides with the annual wildflower season in the region, so make sure you book your lodging well in advance.  Please e-mail Eonie at  wine@visitnwc.com for assistance in this regard.

 

MEDICS are on standby with various access points to the trails, but please pack your own medicine particularly in case of allergies (bee sting).

 

SMILE AND WAVE.  We’ll have 5 photographers and 3 drone zones on the trails.  Pictures and videos will be uploaded afterwards and available FREE of charge.  Just pack your best smile and a whole lot of gees!

[ChrisF]

12 days to go .... 

 

 

[Iwan Kemp]

STOP THE PRESS! It’s back!

 

The Vasbyt Hill Climb Challenge, sponsored by Lutzville Vineyards is back for this year's Vines & Views MTB Classic.

 

Vines & Views MTB Classic made some tweaks to last year’s hill climb Strava segment to create an even better rider experience. Grind your way to the top in the shortest time possible to take the prize. The KOM and QOM will each win 3 cases of Lutzville Vineyards’ superb Classic Collection wine!

 

1st Prize - 3 cases of Lutzville Vineyards Classic Collection Range

2nd Prize - 2 cases of Lutzville Vineyards Classic Collection Range

3rd Prize - 1 case of Lutzville Vineyards Classic Collection Range

 

Time to get training!

[ChrisF]

This event is SO much more than just a bike ride 👍👍

 

 

Join the vibe at Friday night at race briefing at Idma -

 

 

Saturday the riders are in for a feast, the ride, the views, the waterpoints IN the cellars.

 

With the families and supporters having a blast at Teubes family farm.

 

All this topped off with a picnic option on Sunday.

 

 

 

[ChrisF]

Please note :

The ONLINE SHOP will close on Thursday 25 Aug at midnight.  All MEAL orders for next Friday as well as Sunday’s PICNIC box need to be done online. Limited clothing stock is available for purchase at Friday’s registration.