The Cape Argus Pick n Pay MTB Challenge, South Africa’s largest mountain bike event, is set to take place at the Boschendal Wine Estate this weekend. Due to a number of roadworks in the area, participants are advised to arrive at the venue 1,5 hours before their starting time.

 

Thousands of riders and spectators are expected at the two-day event on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 March. Meurant Botha, Co-Organiser of the MTB Challenge, says: “We expect the roadworks to congest traffic and cause delays. “We have made arrangements with the local traffic authorities to ease the traffic flow to the venue, but motorists are advised to add an hour to their journey when travelling to Boschendal this weekend.”

 

Motorists and residents are advised that the traffic flow between the R45 turnoff and Pniel will be severely disrupted between 06h00 and 12h00 on both days. Journey times from Stellenbosch to Franschhoek via the R310 (in both directions) will also be affected, and motorists are advised to use the R44 via Klapmuts and Simondium as an alternative route.

 

 

Some of the country’s top MTB riders will be in action this weekend. Close friends and fierce competitors Erik Kleinhans and Johnny Kritzinger will battle it out for top honours in the 55km main race.

 

The MTB Challenge is first and foremost a family event and riders are encouraged to bring their wives, husbands and young ones for a perfect day out. “Relax under the trees with some lunch and quality South African wine. Remember to bring a picnic blanket,” advises Botha.

 

Limited late entries will be available at registration. For more information on the MTB Challenge, please visit www.mtbchallenge.co.za.