Liberty Encounter lines up fresh challenges
First 8km will cover new territory for a manageable, scenic ride
A MIX of mountain-biking ingredients with a few challenges thrown in is what riders in the Liberty Winelands Encounter can expect when it takes place next month.
The fifth edition of the three-stage event will see cyclists tackle a 147km journey between Franschhoek and Paarl from April 12 to 14.
Route director Johan Kriegler said they had created a combination of single-track, gravel roads, Jeep tracks and climbs which would be “doable for most riders”.
“There are, however, a few technical sections and a degree of ascent which will provide a test for some.
“Much of the route is similar to last year, but there has been a change to the starting venue, which will now be at the Boschendal Wine Estate (in the Franschhoek Valley).
“This means the first 8km will cover new territory, but then it will be back to the Boschendal tracks, climbing to the highest point and going down the single-track on the other side,” said Kriegler.
He said the second and third stages of the Winelands Encounter would remain largely unchanged.
Kriegler added that the route objectives were to make sure it was manageable and that the riders would be able to enjoy the scenic journey.
“But there are a few challenging sections, such as the climb up to Matoppies before Water Point One on the second day, which is quite hectic,” he said.
“And then there is a technical stretch around the Berg River dam which will test them and could be influential in the final positions.”
He advised those interested to waste no time in booking their spot in the race as the hotel accommodation was limited to 80 two-person teams.
The Liberty Winelands Encounter is the second race in the Encounter Series, following the TransCape MTB at the beginning of February.
The final event, the Waterberg Encounter, takes place near Bela-Bela in Limpopo from June 7 to 9.
There are a few technical sections and a degree of ascent which will provide a test for some
Johan Kriegler
Liberty Winelands Encounter route director