Magalies Monster MTB routes ‘guaranteed to impress’
Organisers say they can’t wait to welcome mountain biking enthusiasts of all ages to the start line at the 2023 Fedhealth Magalies Monster MTB Classic on June 3.
Returning to the ATKV Buffelspoort on Saturday, June 3, the Fedhealth Magalies Monster MTB Classic will treat mountain biking enthusiasts to a “real” MTB experience that is challenging yet rewarding. It is called #TheMonster after all!
• Also read: Even kids can tame the Magalies Monster
The Fedhealth Magalies Monster MTB Classic has four fantastic distances to choose from: a Full Marathon (+-65km), Half Marathon (+-33km), Fun Ride (+-15km), and Kids Event (2.5km), making it the ideal outdoor activity for families.
The Full Marathon consists of a +-65km route that boasts a total ascent of 1 433m,” said Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.
“Featuring a good mixture of terrain, this is one of the most beautiful MTB routes in and around Gauteng and the North West Province. Riders will get to enjoy gravel roads, Jeep track, rocky single track, technical climbs, and descents. About 20km of the total route will be on farming jeep tracks in and around Citrus, Blue Berry and Cherry Orchards. These sections are fast and non-technical.
“The most iconic section of this route, the Monster Climb, is on the Maanhaarrand Pass Road going all the way up to the highest point on Breedtsnek at 1 765m above sea level. You need to be an experienced and fit mountain biker to enjoy this route. It’s not recommended as your first mountain bike race, also do not compare this route to other events of similar distances. Ride within your own technical ability and rather get off of your bike if you do not feel comfortable going down or up technical sections. Remember to give way to passing riders.
The Half Marathon will feature a +-33km route that includes an ascent of 711m,” continued Michael.
• Also read: Donate and support a good cause at the 2023 Magalies Monster, Trail Run
“It might not be the big Monster Route, but it is still tough and fun to do. It is also a nice stepping stone to #TheMonster for next year. This distance is unique, as it is perfect for younger athletes that want to race each other in a highly competitive environment. It is also the perfect route for athletes that are new to the sport, as 70% of the route is very ridable and non-technical. However, it is the Magalies Monster, and there will be many sections that remind you of this.”
The route includes exceptionally beautiful sections of the Buffelspoort Valley.
The Fun Ride is just that, 15km [with a 271m ascent ] of pure mountain biking bliss in the Buffelspoort Valley,” confirmed Michael.
“The route offers an exciting variety of terrain including farming Jeep tracks, untouched Magaliesberg Mountain trails and indigenous bushveld. The riders will enjoy cycling in a beautiful indigenous bushveld forest that is easy to negotiate and perfect for new riders entering the sport of mountain biking. There is one steep concrete climb that younger athletes will probably not be able to cycle up. It is, however, non-technical and easy to walk up. The rest of the route is fun and fast.
We can’t wait to welcome mountain biking enthusiasts of all ages to the start line at the 2023 Fedhealth Magalies Monster MTB Classic, ready to #ConquerTheMonster.”
