As mountain biking in South Africa matures and the economy tightens, mountain bikers are becoming more and more discerning in how they spend their time and money. When it comes to long stage races, the Momentum Medical Scheme Cape Pioneer Trek, presented by Biogen is a South African favourite and stands out as a sensible option. Here are 10 reasons why the 2023 Cape Pioneer Trek should be on your to-do list.
Paid partnership with Dryland Event Management
THE ROUTE
As is required with all UCI-graded stage races, the Cape Pioneer Trek route changes each year. After more than a decade though, the organisers have helped create some iconic features, such as stunning forest single track at Saasveld, the historic Montagu Pass and a stage finish on top of the iconic Swartberg Pass. Other than the prologue time trial stage, the main stages range in distance from 55km to 90km, which are challenging, but not murderous, allowing most participants to race them, not just try to survive.
THE VALUE
Get ready for a true Dryland experience at a full service stage race. At R52500 the two-rider team entry fee is among the best-value you will find for a seven-day, six-night stage race, which include all meals from lunch on prologue day until the final day for a celebratory meal once you’re done!
THE FACT THAT IT’S OWNER MANAGED
Experience the magic of an event where passion meets precision. Since its establishment in 2009, the owners of Dryland Event Management have played an integral role in the organisation and management of each edition. Behind the scenes Henco Rademeyer, Carel Herholdt and Bernard le Roux are actively involved to ensure seamless organization each day at the Cape Pioneer Trek.
THE WATER POINTS
You can plan your stage with only essential supplements on the bike, knowing that at each water point, you get a full range of popular endurance event snacks, as well as high-quality energy bars and gels from Biogen. All committed stage racers appreciate this as it helps reduce what they have to carry from the start of each stage. You’ll even find braaied Ostrich steak, cooked to perfection by event co-owner, Carel Herholdt.
THE FACT THAT EVERYONE IS A VIP
There is a VIP area at the Momentum Medical Scheme Cape Pioneer Trek, presented by Biogen. The VIP area takes up the entire race village because everyone is a VIP. There’s no segretation at the #RaceWithSoul where every rider and supporter is treated with the same respect and gratitude.
THE FOOD
Stage-race food and water has been known to create havoc. While there’s always a risk, the Cape Pioneer Trek’s culinary team and meticulous attention to detail by Rene Rademeyer, wife of event co-founder Henco Rademeyer, takes exceptional care with sourcing, storing and preparation of food and water to ensure excellence on and off your bike.
THE LOCAL COMMUNITY SUPPORT / COMMUNITY UNITY
Each town that hosts a stage puts in a big effort to support the event before, during and after the race. From passionate town support to local schools hosting the race village, the Cape Pioneer Trek not only boost the local economy but also receives a small-town spirit that will fuel your journey with love!
THE HERITAGE
After 13 editions and 91 stages, the Cape Pioneer Trek has established itself as one of the most significant mountain bike events in South Africa. For most, it’s a classy, high-quality event that offers value for money and a great experience, while for the professionals, it’s a well-thought out race that offers decent prizemoney, good media coverage and UCI points.
THE SHORTER VERSION
If seven days of racing doesn’t suit you, but you’re seeking a thrilling taste of the Cape Pioneer Trek in a shorter burst, the Adventure option awaits. It’s a four-day race that starts from Stage 3 and includes the formidable ascent of the Swartberg Pass on Stage 5. This event is ideal for those who can’t secure a full week off work or who aren’t quite ready to tackle the full Cape Pioneer Trek. You get the same high quality event experience though and the Adventure also accommodates eBike participants.
THE ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
There are four levels of accommodation at the Cape Pioneer Trek: Standard Red Tent (sleeps one); Silver Upgrade Luxury Tent (sleeps one or two); Gold Upgrade – Guest House & B&B accommodation (sleeps one or two); Platinum Upgrade – Guest House and Hotel accommodation (sleeps one or two). This is all managed by the event organisers (including shuttles to and from the race village), leaving you to simply book the accommodation that suits your budget and enjoy the experience.
WATCH THE CAPE PIONEER TREK VIDEO SUMMARY
To find our more or to secure your entry for the 2023 Momentum Medical Scheme Cape Pioneer Trek, presented by Biogen, click here.
Paid partnership with Dryland Event Management
