Time for the Debtsafe CANSA MTB Challenge

The Debtsafe CANSA MTB Challenge was launched last year and attracted mountain bike cyclists from far and wide. What differentiates it from other trails is the fact that it is hosted in the National Zoological Gardens’ Mokopane Centre which is nestled in the Waterberg. This year, the race will be held on 11 October and will cater to all cyclists, from young novices to the seasoned riders. Northern News spoke to race organiser Hein du Plessis, about the upcoming challenge.

NN: Why was the Debtsafe CANSA MTB Challenge launched?
HdP: The CANSA Walk-for-Life event in Mokopane was cancelled and a mountain bike event was proposed in its place. Debtsafe decided to get involved because it was for a worthy cause. Mountain biking is also one of the fastest growing sports in SA. The Bushveld is ideal for an event such as this one.

NN: What is new about this year's race?
HdP: The Debtsafe CANSA MTB Challenge is now a Cycling SA-sanctioned qualifier for Limpopo Colours (the 30km & 60km races). We have also incorporated a 1km distance as an alternative for the scooter race and 10km for the kids and novices that want to participate in the MTB challenge.

NN: What can cyclists expect from this year’s challenge?
HdP: The race is broken down into four distances. The 1km is for children aged 5 and older. Parents are welcome to join their children. The 10km race is for everyone. It is an easy route, but you might be in for short stretches of sand on the trail.
The 30km is more of a challenge. You need to be comfortable with your bike and some fitness will be a benefit. For fit riders this will be a nice route, but for the unfit riders it would be a challenge. The flow of the trail and the wildlife that you will see will make up for the time in the seat. There are a few hills and sand stretches, but the trail is mostly flat and fast and everything is drivable on the route. This route differs slightly from last year’s route.
The 60km route follows a large part of the 30km route, but expect challenging short climbs. Fitness is recommended. The route is drivable and differs slightly from last year – riders can expect single-track trails closer to the end of the route.

NN: CANSA is supported via the popular Spin-a-thon challenge. How does one enter?
HdP: The Debtsafe CANSA Spin-a-thon is a charity event. Entry is R800 per team consisting of a minimum of four members (up to eight). It starts at 08:00 and lasts for four hours. There will be prizes for the best team spirit and the best-dressed team. Rules will be given out on the day, but keep in mind that no bike must be stationary for longer than 30 seconds – without someone cycling – enough time for team members to switch. Some of the teams who have already entered include: Office Made Easy, Midas Ladies, Toyota and Van der Hoven Attorneys.

NN: What else can we look forward to?
HdP: Food stalls, interesting exhibits and a scooter race for the kids (2-5 years) as well as other entertainment. There will also be an iPad raffle and a lucky draw.

NN: What are rules to keep in mind?
HdP: All CSA rules will apply to the event. Please note that the following needs to be mentioned: No helmet – no ride. Nobody will be allowed to participate if they do not wear a helmet.
Remember that this is in the National Zoological Gardens and out of respect for our environment, no littering will be tolerated.
Parking will be across the road.

What are the costs for the day?
60km:  R160. 30km: R140. 10km: R70. 1km: R30. Scooter race: R20. Spin-a-thon – R800 (per team of 4-8). Late entries: R35 (30km & 60km) and CSA day licence R35.
Free entry for all spectators.