It's pedal to the metal for The Herald Continental Cycle Tour

PARK & RIDE: Cyclists can once again look forward to first-class rider and spectator experience at next year’s Herald Continental MTB race, to be hosed at the Addo Polo Club.

The Eastern Cape’s most anticipated mountain bike race is once again around the corner, riders of all abilities can expect a fun-filled day at The Herald Continental Cycle Tour mountain bike race taking place on February 17, 2019 at the Addo Polo Club, says race director Brad Jackson. 

Besides enjoying the well-maintained purpose-built trails, riders will also be exposed to some of the most breath-taking scenery the region has to offer.  

The purpose-built mountain bike routes wind their way through the picturesque  Karoo bushveld and ensure that riders get to experience some of South Africa’s finest single track trails topped off with stunning views over the vast Addo region. 

“The routes once again incorporate some of the famous Hayterdale single track trails for the 60 km Adventure and the 80km Extreme races,” Jackson said. 

“The 30km route remains unchanged from previous years taking in the area around the Sundays River Valley through the vast citrus orchards the area is well known for”. 

“The 80km is designed to be a challenging ride with technical single track and plenty of climbing.”  

“The 60km Adventure ride is the perfect balance between challenging and fun with a mixture of open gravel roads, single track and moderate climbing the 30km Leisure ride is an easy one which is purpose built for families and friends wanting to enjoy a morning out on the bike”  

There are plenty of water points on all the routes fully-stocked and equipped to keep riders hydrated and fuelled,” he said. “Once again riders can expect a festive atmosphere at the various water points”.  

The race director also suggested that riders of all distances take a little time to check that their mountain bikes are in top condition before race day. 

“For all riders it’s important to make sure that your bike is ready for the race. Get your bikes serviced and ready for the race. You don’t want to arrive unprepared. 

Riders must collect their race packs on Friday, February 15 between 9am-7pm and also on Saturday, February 16 between 9am-1pm at Pollok Beach and on Sunday. 

The Race Village will be fully loaded with plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained before, during and after the race. 

The mountain bike race village will offer true farmers hospitality from the Addo community with a traditional farmers market, food prepared by the locals, tractor rides for children and horse rides.

 If you plan to spend the night, various camping options are available for riders and spectators. 

Riders are permitted to erect their own tent within the dedicated area at the Addo Polo Club at R100 per adult and R50 per child under 12-years per night. 

Luxury tents are also available from R450 per tent, with two beds and mattresses included, for an extra R150 linen will be included with the offering. 

For those wanting to save 25% on their entry fees, Early bird entries are available until November 30, 2018. 

Visit The Herald Continental Cycle Tour website for additional camping and race information: www.heraldcycletour.co.za