Pedal power all set to get the adrenaline pumping
Exciting mountain biking action is on the cards this weekend as the annual Thomas River event takes centre-stage in the Thomas River Valley on Saturday.
Five mountain bike races and three trail runs will be available on the day, with people of all ages and fitness levels able to tackle one of the events, giving it a strong family vibe.
The main drawcard, the popular 60km race, is also being revamped with a new route that includes a stiff climb that will test some of the top local mountain biking talent, before they join up on the same route as the 40km riders into previously unexplored country past the Thomas River haunted house.
“If you walk up the N6 in the dead of night you might well be met by the ghost of Jono Trowbridge who died there in 1876,” said one of the organisers, John Potter, giving a back story to the haunted house.
“He will offer you work on the railway line, hence the name of Funumsebenzi.
“From there on it’s pleasant riding back to the finish.”
Usually a different route will peak the interest of a large number of riders who had done the race a few times before and were possibly not going to come back due to having done it, so with a fresh feel to this year’s race a large entry field is expected.
The trail run side of the day is also fast becoming a very popular drawcard, as it brings a different challenge to proceedings.
An enjoyable family day is expected.
“A feature of the country races is the hospitality, and this is where Thomas River really excels,” said Potter.
“The farmer members have 16 sheep added to the 12 bles- bok. You can look forward to a feast of farm mutton and venison, all included in the entry fee.
“I have also just unloaded seven boxes of ‘Goody Bag’ stuff, so you can expect some really good goodies in your bag.
“Coke as always will see that you don’t dehydrate out there, and if you enjoy something different in beer Table 58 will be in attendance.”
On the mountain biking side distances of 60km, 40km, 19km, 12km and 5km are available as well as a kiddies ride, while the trail runs are 20km, 10km and 5km.
Pre-entries for the race closed on Tuesday. However, late entries, with a R40 late entry fee, will be accepted online at entries@thomasriver.com by Thursday.
Late, late entries will be accepted at the venue on Friday, and day entries will be accepted at registration but they cannot be timed.
“As always podium winners in the MTB will receive meat prizes of farm mutton, while the runners will receive cash,” said Potter.
“Thanks to our sponsors we will have a host of lucky draw prizes, ranging from those handy little things up to a free alarm installation from Optimum or an installed air-conditioner from Cold Control.”