Boschendal Wine Estate was buzzing with excitement on Saturday, 16 September 2017 with junior mountain bike (MTB) enthusiasts eagerly lining up to participate in the 3rd annual Fedhealth Kids MTB Events.
Featuring three events: a 500m, 1.5km and a 5km race, the Fedhealth Kids MTB Events catered for children between the ages 0 – 5 years, 6 – 9 years and 10 – 13 years.
Making his Fedhealth Kids MTB Events debut on the day, four and a half year old Tyler Van Gesselleen of Stellenbosch was the first rider to cross the finish line in the 0 – 5 year category. “My Grandpa entered my name into the race. I had a good ride and wanted to win. My MTB hero is Nino Schurter.”
Photo Credit: Tobias Ginsberg
Four year old Hannah Watts of Somerset West was seen riding her new bike on the day. “I had fun. The route was super hard. I turned four this month. I entered because I wanted to ride my new bike. I will definitely be back next year.”
Seven year old Ben Teubes of Rondebosch was all smiles when he crossed the finish line. “I like riding my bike and I really like racing. I am happy that I finished first today. My Dad is my MTB hero.”
Joshua du Plessis of Stellenbosch was the first rider home in the 5km race. “The route was great,” says a very happy du Plessis. “It was muddy and tough. I like mountain biking because I really enjoy training. My father rides a lot. I enjoy riding with him.”
Jeanne Jordaan of Stellenbosch entered the 5km race because she loves mountain biking. “I am really happy to have crossed the finish line first. I only wanted to beat my sister though. I enjoy the sport because I love getting muddy and really enjoy the down hills.”
Says Jeremy Yatt, Fedhealth Principal Officer: “Each year, we just love seeing our young riders in action at the Fedhealth MTB Challenge. Not just hanging around to support Mom or Dad, but actively having fun and competing in their own races. That’s why we introduced this family event in the first place: to get the whole family together around fun, fresh air and exercise. Well done to every junior rider for completing the race. You are all champs in my book!”
The action continued on Sunday, when the more serious mountain bikers took to the line to experience the magnificent trails on offer at Boschendal Wine Estate in the 2017 Fedhealth MTB Challenge.
Source: Newsport Media
