This lauded mountain bike race, which has taken place annually since 2005, takes riders through a scenic journey in Kwazulu Natal, from the Drakensberg down to the coast.
The team from Alberton consisted of Nathan Naidoo, Tyrone Gerber, Bradley James, Grant Chamier, Deon Roodt, Jeff Whiteley.
For three of them, it was the very first time taking on the sani2c, which meant an extra bout of excitement for these newcomers. The race is completed in teams of two. The RECORD spoke to one of these first time sani2c riders, James, about his experiences taking part in the race.
“There was much excitement as we all drove down in a minibus with the bikes,” said Bradley.
For Bradley, the trip introduced an additional element due to the overnight camping during the trip. The weather was throughout the trip was good, which was wonderful news for the campers while providing spectacular mountain biking scenery.
The first day of the race started off with much excitement among the racers. Kicking off from Glencairn Farm the route saw the cyclists go through country roads and farms. After this, the riders took on a single track road that provided fun for all.
“I loved how the entire farming community came together to make the race a success,” said Bradley.
Day two was the one that Bradley looked forward to most.
“This is the part of the sani2c everyone always talks about,” he said.
By his own account, this day did not disappoint. In this leg of the race, the cyclists enter the valley towards Umkomaas River.
“Pictures don’t describe how beautiful it is,” said Bradley.
“The river grows continuous larger as you cycle down, perilously close the edge of a canyon. My only request would be that they install a ski lift so that you can do it all again.”
Crossing the river multiple times, the route features amazing sights. On the other side of the river, waiting for them, was one of the key points of the race – Iconic Climb. A test and challenge for cyclists are being able to climb this obstacle without setting their foot down, something Bradley was unfortunately unable to complete.
While the second day was Bradley’s favourite, it was also the toughest part of the sani2c.
The third and final day of the race started off with the cyclists riding among the sugarcane farms. The day also featured a section in the Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve, which not only gave the riders a fun trail but opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature and the animals.
The final part of the three-day journey headed towards Scottburgh and the finish line at the coast.
“All of us had a great time,” said Bradley.
The six riders from Alberton stuck together as they progressed through the route.
“It gave us the opportunity to know each other better. It was a jol. I would definitely do it again. It is one for cyclists’ bucket lists.”
