The 19th annual Barberton XCM Mountain Bike Challenge takes place this weekend. The route is not for the faint-hearted. As they say, “Blood, sweat and gears”, can be expected during this race. The ultramarathon cyclists will peak their 110 kilometre route at just under 1 800 metre above sea level overlooking the majestic Makhonjwa Mountains and De Kaap Valley.
This route will take participants through two nature reserves, plantations and a number of river crossings.
All races will start and end at the Barberton High School sports fields. With a festival-like atmosphere, there is much for the fans and supporters to do while waiting for the cyclists to return from their thrilling rides.
Race categories
The very delicate 20 kilometre fun ride
The delicate 30 kilometre half-marathon
The not-so-delicate 48 kilometre half-marathon
The not-so-delicate 77 kilometre full marathon
The not-so-delicate 110 kilometre ultramarathon.
Race staring times
The 20 kilometre – 08:00
The 30 kilometre – 07:45
The 48 kilometre – 07:20
The 77 kilometre – 07:00
The 110 kilometre – 06:30.
Race cut-off times
• 110 kilometre: Brighton kop, 10:30 (26 kilometres from start)
• 110 km: Mountainlands Nature reserve gate, 12:00 (56 kilometres from start)
• 77km: Brighton Kop, 11:00 (26 kilometres from start)
• 77km: Mountainlands Nature Reserve gate, 12:30 (56 kilometres from start)
• 48km: Olifantskop, 10:30
• All distances at the race finish – 15:30
Enter online at https://www.cycleevents.co.za/category/mtb-events/
According to Nic Eksteen, president of the Barberton Rotary Club, this race is the perfect motivation to stay fit, all of this while contributing much needed funds to The Barberton Rotary Club, and its nominated charities.
Eksteen further expressed his excitement about the route’s single tracks, which guaranteed to make the race more exciting and challenging.
Pre-entries are open and you can enter at www.cycleevents.co.za
For more information regarding the routes and profiles, the Rotary, stalls, sponsorships, accommodation in town and tourist attractions, please visit
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