Grab a wrench and start tightening those bolts and adjusting your seat because the two-day MTB Funky Challenge is fast approaching! Giving contestants unbelievable value for money without compromising on thrills or frills, this new addition to the Funky Fynbos MTB calendar will push you to your limits while keeping your bank balance out of the red.
Spanning 95 km on purpose-built tracks that cut through alien vegetation on natural lines and breaks, you and your trusted steel steed will traverse some of the most breathtaking private farms in the Walker Bay Conservancy. But don't let the beauty fool you. This race will be tough. It requires an above average level of fitness and technical skill. Steep climbs will have you feel the burn as you climb the mountains surrounding Gansbaai. Singletracks (which make up the bulk of the route) and jumps will help you flow through the newly made tracks as you gain speed down gravity aided descents that will test your skill, brakes and nerves. The start/finish point for each day will be at the Lomond Wine Estate.
The payoff for all the hard yards you will be facing outweighs even the steepest climb. The thrill of zooming past hectare after hectare of protected land as you commit the epic vistas from atop the mountains to memory, will be worth every last drop of sweat. Blooming proteas and fynbos plants will dot the landscape around you as you weave your way past the opposition. And stunning views of the entire Walker Bay and Walker Bay Nature Reserve might just have you stopping to take it all in.
Costing only R600 per person, do not miss out on the chance to take part in one of the most cost-effective and beautiful MTB stage races in the country. But just because you ride on rugged terrain enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of the fynbos doesn’t mean that's all you’re getting. Included in the price is timing, marshaling, route marking, race refreshments and water points, goodie bags and post-race cooldown space with great food, local wines and craft beers at the Lomond Wine estate.
Stay tuned and keep in contact with Funky Fynbos Festival. They are currently working on accommodation for contestants and festival goers to rest overnight on farms nearby in warm and tented chalets with braai facilities on offer for evening reminiscing. If rest is not what you are after stop by at the second leg of the Funky Fynbos Festival in the Gansbaai Harbour. There you will find an evening funky festival cheer, great music, delicious handmade food and a fare and plenty of fynbos.
