The countdown to Stellenbosch’s most iconic MTB celebration, the Savanna Origin of Trails MTB Experience, has begun and mountain bikers that have not yet entered, have until Tuesday 23 November to do so to secure their spot on the start line on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 November 2021.
An individual 2-day MTB Stage Race, the Savanna Origin of Trails MTB Experience routes highlight the beauty and splendor of Stellenbosch. Mountain bikers can look forward to experiencing a vast network of world-class and exclusive trails while celebrating the origin of SA mountain biking.
“We can’t wait to treat entrants to an on-route MTB party like no other,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Founder of the event. “It’s been a roller-coaster of a year. What better way to put it all behind us, than by spending two days with family and friends enjoying Stellenbosch’s most iconic trails. The Savanna Origin of Trails MTB Experience is not about the race, it’s about the experience. There is no better way to rekindle your love for the sport.”
When entering online, mountain bikers can support the event’s charity, the Stellenbosch Trail Fund (STF). A registered non-profit organisation (NPO), STF is entirely funded by donations from local trail users and corporate sponsors. Since 2011 STF’s aim has been to create, improve and maintain – hiking, biking and running trails in and around the greater Stellenbosch.
“Stellenbosch truly is an off-road athlete’s dream destination,” says Meyer. “Boasting a myriad of world class trails, whether mountain biking or trail running, we really are spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing a route to enjoy. This is largely thanks to the fantastic role fulfilled by STF. We have been proud supporters since the event’s inception in 2013, and we are even prouder to continue our support in 2021.”
According to Richard de Villiers, STF Founding Director, the organization values the support received from Stillwater Sports and the Savanna Origin of Trails MTB Experience. “Our trails are permit-free, which enables all to enjoy our trails free of charge. We are therefore entirely dependent on donations from the public to fund our trail-building and trail-maintenance teams and program. The funds received from the Savanna Origin of Trails MTB Experience will really make a difference.”
The MTO Trails – part of the MTO Group – are also set to shine at the 2021 Savanna Origin of Trails MTB Experience. A significant player in forestry, manufacturing, agriculture, energy, training and ecotourism the MTO Group offers 35km of plantation roads and 42km of single tracks built and maintained in MTO’s Jonkershoek working plantation.
“We are extremely excited to be part of the Savanna Origin of Trails MTB Experience,” says Douw van der Merwe, MTO Eco-tourism Manager. “Jonkershoek is such a special place! Once you enter the valley you are just taken aback by the beauty and awe of the mountains that surround you. After the devastating fires (experienced earlier this year), the team did an amazing job repairing and upgrading the trails. With support from the local community and our partners we are thankful to be able to share the trails with an even greater outdoor community and culture. Best of luck to the participants of the event.”
EVENT INFORMATION: Savanna Origin of Trails MTB Experience
Date: Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 November 2021
Festival Village: Stellenbosch High School
Format: Two-Day Stage Race for individual entrants
Categories, Distances & Entry Fee: Full Marathon
Age: 18+
Entry Fee: R1600.00
Distance Day 1: +-45km
Distance Day 2: +-40km
Half Marathon
Age: 18+
Entry Fee: R1400.00
Distance Day 1: +-27km
Distance Day 2: +-22km
ENTRIES CLOSE: Tuesday 23 November 2021
The entry fee includes:
• Finisher Technical Rider Tee
• Finisher Medal
• Race Number
• Trail Access Fees
• Spectacular on route experience
• Access to world class routes that are usually not open to the public
• A light breakfast pack with coffee on both days
• A scrumptious lunch pack on both days
• Complimentary drinks and refreshments
• Well stocked water points (on route and in the race village)
• Entertainment (on route and in the race village)
• An impressive selection of gifts from our sponsors including Beet It Sport, Savanna and THIRSTI.
PLEASE NOTE: The event organisers will at all times adhere to Government Regulations regarding COVID-19.
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For more information or to enter the Savanna Origin of Trails MTB Experience please email entries@stillwatersports.com or visit www.stillwatersports.com.
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