The 2016 Nissan TrailSeeker Western Cape Series kicks off in the majestic Banhoek Valley this weekend at Boschendal Wines. The Hottentots Holland mountains will welcome close to a 1000 mountain bikers eager to take to some of the highly rated trails in the region.
The key to the growing popularity of these Nissan TrailSeeker Series events lies in the fact that they are designed to usher newcomers into the sport by offering enjoyable trails that are enough of a challenge to keep them fun, but not overly technical. Statistically speaking, the half-marathon event is a breeding ground for first time racers if you look at the sheer number of first time registrations on the SASeeding system.
Photo: ZC Marketing Consulting
The Boschendal half-marathon is a 40km distance event and is expected to offer a balanced challenge to participants who will do their route on both the Banhoek and Boschendal trails with some stimulating singletrack and stunning autumn season views.
The 70km marathon event boasts an incredible 40% singletrack, including the famed Skyfall descent section and the Banhoek Conservancy, adding a measure of thrill to the enjoyment factor. There is of course a serious side to the event with some of the big names in the sport already signed up for the marathon including the likes of Waylon Woolcock (USN Purefit), Gert Heyns (Scott LCB), HB Kruger (Telkom) and Matt Beers (Red-E Cannondale) to name a few.
According to Woolcock, the 2.5km Skyfall section is something to look forward to for the marathon-distance racers: “While it’s quite a long, fun descent, it does test you if you are racing hard. You can’t afford to make any mistakes on any of the many switchbacks. For skilled riders, it’s a great section to gain some time on those who are nervous on switchback turns,” said Woolcock.
The sheer volume of singletrack over such a short distance should also present some explosive racing perhaps suiting Cross Country specialist Gert Heyns. The first of four events in the Western Cape Series competition is sure to be fierce to claim the first points on offer.
Athletes in the various categories will also be able to qualify for Western Province Regional Cross Country Marathon (XCM) points at the Series.
There is also a 20km fun race and a 10km fun ride for those who are young, old or just starting out. As usual the race village will cater well for spectators and offer a relaxing environment for riders and supports before the start and after the finish. While entries are looking strong, participants will still be able to register online through SASeeding until the morning of race day.
Nissan Trailseeker Boschendal schedule of events:
Venue: Boschendal Estate
Registration:
Friday, 6 May at Boschendal Estate: 16h00–19h00
Saturday, 7 May at Boschendal Estate: 06h00-09h15
Race start times:
Saturday, 7 May
07h45: Riders briefing
08h00: 70km
09h00: 40km
09h30: 20km
09h45: 10km
13h00: Prize giving
2016 Nissan TrailSeeker Western Cape Series Dates
- TrailSeeker Western Cape #2 Grabouw – 25 June 2016
- TrailSeeker Western Cape #3 Hemel & Aarde – 8 October 2016
- TrailSeeker Western Cape #4 Bosman – 19 November 2016
For more information on Saturday’s event, visit www.trailseeker.co.za
Source: InsideLine
