20 May 2014 – Gauteng will be hosting the once-off 2014 South African National MTB Championships, which incorporates the cross-country and downhill disciplines, at Thaba Trails near Alberton from 19-20 July.
Race organiser Wendell Bole has hosted several National Cup races over the past few years, and is tweaking the routes ahead of the prestigious championship event this winter.
The cross-country (XCO) track currently measures between 4-4.5km, and includes a few new rock gardens to bring the total to seven. Each technical section also offers a “B-line” for the less technical riders.
More rocks have been added to the downhill (DHI) track, which has also been revamped since the 2013 National Cup Series event. Bole estimates that the re-worked track adds approximately 15-20 seconds to the descent.
Route maps and route profiles are not yet finalised and will be disseminated in due course, as will entry details and a list of recommended accommodation options in the area.
Source: Cycling South Africa
