Explore spectacular scenery along the Sabie River during the annual Vodacom Hippo Hollow MTB Challenge and trail run on 2 June. The event will be held at Elephant Whispers in Hazyview, on the doorstep of the Kruger National Park. This is the closest cycle race to the reserve and is characterised by the lush and unspoilt terrain. Single tracks hugging the Sabie River make way to lush indigenous forests, macadamia and forestry plantations, providing views that make this race a must on the cycling calendar.
There are four cycling events – a 60km, 40km, 19km and an 8km. Runners can also experience the scenery on a 4km or an 8km trail run. The routes are challenging enough but also allow for moments to appreciate the unspoilt views. If that is not motivation enough, Numbi Ford has sponsored prize money worth R36 000.
The event starts on the Friday night and continues to Saturday evening with live entertainment, craft beer on tap, a country market, food trucks and plenty activities to keep the children entertained. Enjoy helicopter flips and sundowners at Hippo Hollow Country Estate while watching the hippos. Elephant interactions at Elephant Whispers are on offer Friday and Saturday. It’s a weekend event for the whole family, with plenty to keep non-riders entertained and give city-cyclists a breather from the hustle and bustle. The event venue is just 15-minutes’ drive from the Phabeni Gate into the Kruger National Park, making it ideal for a visit to the reserve for those planning to make a weekend of the Vodacom Hippo Hollow MTB Challenge.
If you have never taken part in a mountain bike race – this is the kind of event that will motivate you faster than you can say “ride on the wild side”. For experienced riders the routes offer something out of the ordinary and a challenging, rewarding weekend. The Lowveld Hollow Hotels are offering weekend packages at special rates. Book early to avoid disappointment. For more information and to register go to www.sunshineevents.co.za.
