GRAAFF-REINET SPORT NEWS - It's technically a very challenging race that drains your energy and can play mental games with one's mind. But at least the scenery of the unique landscapes makes the Trans Augrabies Mountain Bike Race (MTB) worth the while.
So says local resident Danie Jackson after he and Roland Larsen, also from Graaff-Reinet, completed this gruelling 3-day stage race over 231km recently.
Roland (64) finished in the overall 59th place in 15 hours 7 minutes and 59 seconds. Danie (63) completed the race in 68th overall position in 15 hours 56 minutes and 6 seconds.
Trans Augrabies is a three-day mountain bike stage race that is contested on a handicap format and takes place at the Augrabies Falls National Park in South Africa. Taking the handicap into account Roland's finishing time was in fact 11 hours 57 minutes and 28 seconds while Danie clocked in after 12 hours 35 minutes 36 seconds.
Of the three stages the second one over 91km were by far the most challenging, says Danie. "Believe me, this is not for the fainthearted and it saps your energy. But riding through the heart of the Green Kalahari is worth the pain and effort."
One of the highlights of the Trans Augrabies was crossing the Orange River on a floating bridge.
The three stages run through the spectacular Augrabies Falls National Park and surrounding areas, including Riemvasmaak, Kakamas, Keimoes and Kanoneiland.
The route navigates through various types of terrain, including 136km of gravel tracks, 85km of jeep tracks, 14km of single tracks and tar roads.
One of the highlights, says Danie, was crossing the Orange River on a floating bridge. "That was awesome. And encountering game while cycling contributed to this authentic regional experience.
"It was by no means easy, but we will be back for more punishment."
The Trans Augrabies Mountain Bike Race is not for the fainthearted:
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