Single track proves serious challenge at MTB Hectorspruit

The annual Mpumalanga Marathon Series race drew 315 riders to Hectorspruit last Saturday morning and organisers Lien se Kleuternes ensured a great atmosphere for competitors and riders.

The event consisted of four distances winding through farms around Hectorspruit, each with its own challenges.

The 10 and 19 kilometres were great fun for more casual riders, which included young children, families and friends. The routes were very similar, and the bit of uphill proved difficult for many.

READ: MTB riders challenge routes around Hectorspruit

Riders in the 35 kilometres enjoyed the experience but said that the single track was very tough, while the 55-kilometre riders also remarked on the challenging nature of the route.

While some riders reached the finish line at the Buffalo Hotel with tired bodies and smiles on their faces, others arrived completely spattered in mud or at great speeds, determined to beat their best times or friendly rivals.

Supporters waited in the shade and cheered riders during the last stretch, creating a very welcoming atmosphere for the exhausted competitors.

No serious injuries were reported this year, although a few bicycles had to be repaired afterwards.

Results:

55 kilometres

First: Franco Pelser – 2:04:14

Second: Christo Carelsen – 2:09:37

Third: Heine Engelbrecht – 2:09:39

Fourth: Burger Bester – 2:09:40

Heila Meintjies was the first woman to cross the finish line in a time of 2:34:36, followed by Claudia Slattery with 2:42:52 and Tanya Knight in 2:45:35.

35 kilometres

First: Reinhart Viljoen – 1:25:04

Second: Rikus Booyens – 1:25:20

Third: Camden Kench – 1:30:28

Zandri Strydom was fourth and the first female to cross the finish line, 22 seconds after Kench.

Hijke Coetzee was the second woman home in 1:39:48 and Jo Mari Smith third in 1:45:54.

19 kilometres

First: Christiaan Coetzee – 48:22

Second: Lohan Pelser – 48:49

Third: Gert Peens – 50:21

Elsabe Winkler was the first female in 55:53, followed by Adri Kruger in 55:55 and Adele Geldenhuys in 57:35.

10 kilometres

First: Karike Coetzee – 27:13

Second: Rossouw Janson – 27:21

Third: Henning Radley – 28:23.

Pieter Kritzinger, Armandt Hatting, Johan Hattingh and Ricardo Raubenheimer followed seconds after Radley. Marizanne Barwise was in second place among the ladies in 36:58 and Magda Labuschagne in third in 40:03.

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Lien se Kleuternes would like to thank all of the sponsors, competitors and everyone who was involved in the successful event for their support and assistance.