The Fedhealth Magalies Monster MTB Classic is one of South Africa’s favourite mountain bike marathons and the 2023 edition on Saturday 3 June, promises to deliver another generous dose of challenges, rewards and memorable experiences. Here’s why…
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IT’S AN ACTUAL MONSTER
The name monster is no joke. The marathon distance race over +/-65km has a total of 1433m of climbing. That’s solid! The marathon distance race includes the formidable ascent – and subsequent descent – of Breedtsnek, one of the most iconic climbs in the region. In the Magalies Monster marathon, the actual climb to the top of Breedtsnek starts at The Shack, is just over 5km in distance and gains 355 metres of elevation at an average of 6.7% gradient – on a largely rough surface. That’s tough by anyone’s standards. The long descent offers some respite, but the poor condition of the road requires 100% concentration.
THERE ARE MULTIPLE DISTANCES
If the marathon seems a bit formidable, there’s a +/-33km half-marathon with 711 metres of ascent and a 15km fun ride with 271 metres of ascent. This year, the half-marathon has its own Mini Monster climb, which is shorter, but steeper than the Monster climb in marathon. Only the fit, strong riders will be able to ride the whole climb, but it’s sure to offer a good challenge and a great post-race talking point for the half-marathon participants. The half-marathon and fun ride include large segments of non-technical gravel roads and jeep track.
IT’S A RACE WITH REAL HERITAGE
This will be the 22nd edition of the Fedhealth Magalies Monster. It’s one of the country’s oldest and most revered mountain bike marathons. It has been contested by most of the biggest names in the sport over the past two decades as well as more than one generation of mountain bikers who have answered the call to ‘Beat the Monster’! The finisher medal is more than another race medal, it’s an actual badge of honour.
IT’S CLOSE ENOUGH FOR A DAY OUT
Based at the ATKV resort, which is located in the magnificent Buffelspoort Valley in the North West Province, the Fedhealth Magalies Monster is accessible to many. Just a 90-minute drive from Johannesburg and an hour from Pretoria, the Fedhealth Magalies Monster is close enough for a fun day out, but far enough away to feel like an escape from the big cities of Gauteng. The dramatic Magaliesberg Mountain Range and surrounds offers stunning wilderness views and a fabulous feeling of freedom.
ITS ORGANISED BY STILLWATER SPORTS
You know the organisation is world class because Stillwater Sports is one of South Africa’s premier sports events companies. With the backing of Fedhealth, a leading medical aid, the Magalies Monster ensures a fantastic rider and supporter experience, before, during and after the event itself. There’s also a significant investment in media coverage of the event, a key factor for sponsored riders and clubs.
AGE CATEGORIES ARE VALUED
The Fedhealth Magalies Monster values and encourages participation across all ages, with podium recognition and prizes for the top marathon male and female performers in the following: Senior (19-29 years), Sub-Veteran (30-39 years), Veteran (40-49 years), Master (50-59) and Grand Master men over 60. In the half-marathon and fun race, the top three male and male finishers overall are given acknowledgement.
If you haven’t yet, there is still time to get your entry in. Visit the event website here.
