Roughing it on the bike trail

No doubt, Gwyn Pine and AC Swanepoel are among top local cyclists.

With numerous titles and accolades to their names, this formidable duo recently undertook the Homeward Bound Challenge.

Although not the longest, this event is still a gruelling 300 kilometre experience.

For AC, ultra-distance MTB riding is nothing new, having completed two 365km solo Namibia Desert dashes and the 36one Challenge this year.

Gwyn Pine is also a name synonymous with success.

An excellent road cyclist who has cycled for his country at the World Championships in 2014, taking on a mountain bike ride was in itself a challenge for Gwyn.

Alone talented, together unstoppable.

For the challenge, Gwyn and AC had 24 hours to complete a set route from Mount Splendour near Winterton to Salt Rock on the North Coast, relying only GPS coordinates.

“With no water points, they depend on the team driver, who guides them by GPS and is responsible to feed, water and support them throughout,” explained fellow cyclist, Heather Watson.

Despite problems with their night light, which resulted in their dropping from the front group 60km in, AC and Gwyn rallied to reclaim fourth position up a steep climb behind Wagendrift Dam, and into the sunrise at Rosetta.

Passing through Karkloof via terribly rough terrain, the team reached a pick-up point at Noodsberg.

After a 26km transition area, AC and Gwyn were dropped off for their final 40km through the challenging Holla trail zone near Ballito.

“At an elevation of 4983 metres, our time was 13 hours, 38 minutes, including the 30-minute compulsory portage, where we had to get in a vehicle due to safety.”

Finishing third overall, Gwyn’s and AC’s prize was free entry to next year’s event.

“We would like to thank all who supported us in making this ride possible.”