The Belmont Valley Mountain Bike Challenge, Grahamstown’s new up-and-coming cycling event, was hosted by Albany Saints and Sinners Multisport Club on Sunday.
The Belmont Valley Mountain Bike Challenge, Grahamstown’s new up-and-coming cycling event, was hosted by Albany Saints and Sinners Multisport Club on Sunday.
The winner of the 70km main event was Jonathan Rosenstrauch in a fast time of 2:52:44 on what many called a hard and technical route. He was followed by Rhodes University student, Paddy Fisher in 2:55:20. The women’s winner was Michelle Schlebusch who finished in 4:03:49.
The event, sponsored by Pam Golding Properties, took place from The Belmont Golf Club with the routes looping through the farms of Belmont Valley and Manley Flats.
With 15km, 40km and 70km distances on offer, there was something to appeal to all types of cyclists – whether you were looking for a leisurely ride in the farmlands with your family or a platform to compete and test your ability on some strenuous hills. All the riders were greeted and refreshed by the staff of Buco, Hi Q, Pick ‘n Pay, De Jager Lordan, PG Glass and Pam Golding Properties at various water stops along the way.
The 40km and 70km events crossed over the Port Alfred road to take in the Manley Flats Developing Trails and included fence crossings, river crossings and plenty of single track.
“Our most profound thanks and appreciation to the Sikhululekile community of Manley Flats for working tirelessly for over 8 months in preparing these paths and trails. This community together with Leonie Yendell have produced a world class bike and run trail in Grahamstown’s backyard,” said Challenge organiser, Megan Hobson.
The event started at 7am with the 70km cyclists. One of the 70km participants, Vusumzi Jakuja, a regular cyclist who had travelled from PE to take part, described it as “a beautiful race” and “one to be a part of”. He finished in 3:15 and has already decided to come back next time to do it in under three hours.
In a sprint finish for the 40km event, overall winner was Zachary Swart in 2:11:23, followed by Graeme College pupil Lloyd Vos one second behind. First female in the 40km was Gill Barbour in 2:34:41, followed by DSG pupil Sascha van der Merwe in 2:54:23.
The organisers describe the 15km ride as having something for everyone. A visibly fatigued but delighted Gareth Conrad (14), was the winner saying, “I did get a medal but I hope I get a prize.”
The women’s 15km winner was Lindsay Webber in 1:01:29.
Organisers and participants alike agreed it was a successful event with beautiful and enjoyable routes and all are looking forward to next year.
sport@grocotts.co.za
