TZANEEN – Mountain bikers from across Limpopo and beyond descended on Faerie Glen at Westfalia on Saturday, June 20, for the annual Miami Magoebaskloof MTB Challenge, an event renowned for its scenic routes, flowing single-track sections and challenging terrain.

Hosted by the Tzaneen Cycling Club (TCC), the event catered for riders of all ages and abilities, with distances of 15km, 35km, 50km and 70km, as well as dedicated e-bike categories.

The challenge once again lived up to its reputation, attracting competitive cyclists and recreational riders eager to experience some of the province’s most picturesque mountain biking trails.

70km men’s race delivers tight competition at the front

The premier 70km men’s race delivered a highly competitive contest, with Salem Signer of Soutpansberg Cycling Club emerging victorious in a time of 03:45:39.4. Respect Ramashia of Polokwane Pedallers finished just over two minutes behind in second place, while Daan Terblanche claimed third.

In the women’s 70km event, Lianke Fourie of Winelands Cycling delivered a dominant performance to secure victory in 04:42:54.1. Chantal Weyers of TCC finished second after successfully conquering the challenging route.

Junior and 35km categories produce strong performances

TCC rider Sian Swartz claimed victory in the 15km boys’ race in a time of 45:37.7. Logan De Graeve of Potties Cycling Club finished second, while Reuben Schwartz secured third place despite competing in the younger u/10 age category.

The girls’ 15km race produced an impressive display from Milan Botha of TCC, who crossed the finish line first in 45:37.5. Nika De Witt finished second, with Rome du Preez completing the podium positions.

The 35km race saw Ivan Labuschagne of Polokwane Pedallers dominate the field to take overall honours in 02:34:56.1. Wouter Retief finished second, while CJ Els of Merensky secured third place.

Close finishes highlight e-bike and 50km races

One of the closest finishes of the day came in the 35km e-bike race.

Don Coetzee claimed victory by the narrowest of margins, crossing the line in 01:48:55.7, a split second ahead of Damien Pennefather. Wiekes Labuschagne completed the podium in third place.

In the competitive 50km men’s race, Henro van der Walt of Potties Cycling Club produced a strong ride to secure victory in 02:12:29.7. Elrick Opperman of TCC finished second, followed by Daniel Dreyer of Cycleway in third.

Karli van Wyk of Hartswerk was the leading woman over the 50km distance, finishing in an impressive 02:59:49.4.

Rachel Thompson claimed second place, while Kristen Thompson finished third.

70km e-bike category wraps up action

The 70km e-bike category was won by Dylan Chilcott of TCC, who completed the demanding course in 03:29:46.2. Jaco van Heerden finished second.

Nadia du Preez was the only female entrant in the category but was unfortunately unable to complete the race.