Challenge caters for cyclists of all ages

The team has added a 22-kilometre ride which is designed for cyclists who want to move up from 12 kilometres but are not ready for the 35.

Route descriptions

• 10 kilometres (170-metre ascent) – Nice flat start on district road to get the legs warmed up. You’ll then veer off onto Msilezi Farm with a lovely undulating jeep track. Along the district road to the final disc-burning descent and finish off on some flowing single track.

• 22 kilometres (380-metre ascent) – A gradual climb up the district road past Sudwala Lodge and up into the pine forests. Just when you think you can’t climb any longer there’s a water point waiting for you at 9,2 kilometres followed by undulating recovery time. Then descend through African bushveld, with a roller-coaster style bush tunnel. The second water point is at 18 kilometres with a fast finish along the district road, one more steep descent and fun single track at the end.

• 35 kilometres (900-metre ascent) – A rude awakening up the Old Sabie Road will have you doubting your fitness levels. Once at the top of the sting you will be rewarded with some pine single track. Flowing jeep track, rocky climbs will take you to the next water point at the 12-kilometre mark. Then it’s down all the way into the Sudwala Valley. At 25 kilometres you’ll get your second breath at the water point. Steep descents, bushveld trails, bush tunnels, pecan orchards and the final water point at 34 kilometres.

Read more on the 62 kilometres route profile in today’s Lowvelder.

This is what riders had to say on Facebook:

Black armbands will be handed out to the all riders in condolence of Jaco Lubbe and his three boys after recently losing Christelle Lubbe in a tragic accident.

The director of Mountain Bike for Cycling South Africa, Brett Coates will also be in action!