Trials Nationals at Rimer’s a huge success

The past weekend was the third year that Barberton hosted the Trials Motorcycling Nationals at Rimer’s Creek, and according to coordinator Evert van Engelenhoven, a record number of spectators attended.

This year, people came not only from the Lowveld region, but from outside as well and although still in its infancy, this annual event is fast becoming the favourite on the yearly calendar in Barberton.

Suprisingly, more women and children also attended this year and with the Dutch Reformed Church holding its annual bazaar at Rimer’s during the nationals, there was plenty to do. The bazaar was also a great success and took pressure off the organisers.

Right from the very first event in 2012, the town and its businesses have shown their support by means of sponsorships and helping out where needed.

This year the riders enjoyed the challenges even more and compared with previous years, it was much more exciting with new obstacles which put their skills to the test around every corner – even the area where the old lapa used to be has been transformed into a trials riding park.

No one had an excuse not to be part of the action as Barberton Ford’s shuttle service was at hand, providing transport to the spectators. According to Evert, this service proved to be very popular indeed.

Financially, this kind of event is good for Barberton as some visitors also do the geotrial, and many visit restaurants, coffee shops, and local stores.

“Apart from the nationals, Barberton now has five local weekend trial riders and I believe it will only increase in future. We expect more riders to visit throughout the year to take part in this sport. They will also bring their families, as right from the start we marketed it as a family event.

“Many people who attended are keen to buy motorcycles and those from the surrounding areas like White River and even as far as Machadodorp, will definitely use our facilities to master the sport. The idea that a club will be established in the future is also a strong possibility,” he said.

As in the past Umjindi Jewellery was once again responsible for the unique trophies. Evert was responsible for the design and the whole school jumped in to help finish the trophies. This year’s medium was a bronze male rider climbing a sekelhout stump with his bike, mounted on a piece of Beachwood.

These trophies and others are also made commercially and those interested should visit Umjindi Jewellery’s website at www.umjindijewellery.co.za. Alternatively they can visit the store or simply phone if they wish to have their own uniquely designed trophies.

The Trials Motorcycling Nationals was truly an event worth attending and the coordinators and everyone involved can be proud of what they achieved. Sad news, however, is that Barberton is expected to only host the nationals again in 2016. This is originally a Cape Province event which will now alternate between the Cape and Barberton, however, a feather in the cap of the organisers and Barbertonians is the comment from 2013 champion Brent le Riché, who said the training ground at the top of Rimer’s was the best in the country.

Anyone who would like to get involved can visit the website on www.barbertontrials.co.za