Monday, February 27
World Cup Marathon #1- Sabie
The MTN Marathon in Sabie this weekend acted as the first UCI World Cup Marathon of 2012. Sabie has always one of my favourite places in South Africa. A beautiful small town located at the bottom of Long Tom Pass in the Lowveld. One just has to roam the streets or walk alongside the river to feel the peacefulness and friendliness of the town. The basin-like town is surrounded by hectars of never-ending forests that look as if they reach to heaven itself. This (of course), would be where the riders would spend the bulk of their time while racing the marathon. The prospect was somewhat daunting, but nonetheless exciting. I had spent the month of December riding the endless hilly roads in the area. But now it was time for a true mountain biking experience.. I couldn't wait.
One always seems to overlook and downplay the route profile, when seen on paper. Physically going out there and conquering those mountains, is a different story altogether. Ask anyone who completed the marathon at Sabie..
A few countries were represented on the Womens startline. It was great to have some internationals in South Africa raising the standard of competition, and in turn, raising the athletes' game. The gun exploded with a bang, and a very animated Max Cluer sent us off with great enthusiasm. Unfortunately, the hype and buzz of the startline madness was short lived, as Ariane Kleinhans (Contego) began to dish out the pain on the base of the long climb. A string of riders attempted to hold her pace, one of these being myself. I am a cross country racer at heart, so it is in my blood to chase hard in the beginning, in the attempt to not let the leader disappear out of sight. My attempt was (almost) successful:) Reaching the summit of the climb 30kms into the race, I crossed the KOM line in second place with others (Ischen Stopforth and Yolande Speedy) hot on my tail! I also knew at this point, that it was going to be a battle to the finish line for me. My legs had felt "jelly-like" the entire day, but I was trying to keep mentally strong. Looking back, i think there is value in being made to suffer like this- it teaches you the meaning of the Afrikanns word "vasbyt". Basically- grind your teeth, dig deep into the pain barrier and move onwards.
I was beginning to feel the effects of my efforts in the first part of the race, and in turn was passed by Teresa (Biogen) who rode with extreme determination on the day. The third water point/tech zone came 47kms in, where i was welcomed with full bottles, splashes of water and chain lube by Philip Vosloo and family. My ever- emptying tank was filled up by the encouragement and support I received there. Legs burning, but motivation existing, I embraced the last 30kms.
The last 10kms was where the I lost the race. The heat was unbearable and shivers were running through my body. I was passed by Ischen Stopforth and Yolande Speedy, who came charging from behind. Their age and experience outdid my lack thereof. However, I refused to give up. One million rocks, 2100m of climbing and 2 falls later, I crossed the finish line in 5th place. At 20 years old, I was happy with my result in this challenging marathon. What made me even happier though, was the ice cold coke I sat and enjoyed at the end of a rough day on the bike! Pure heaven:)
South Africa can be proud of the standard of marathon racing in the country (men and women), with many South Africans finishing in the top placings. What a fantastic way to boast some of the best and most challenging racing terrain our country has to offer. Kevin Evans (360 Life) rode an unbelievable race to win his first World Cup, minutes ahead of second place. We just have to do something about the swiss taking the Womens victory! Maybe in the near future:) Ariane- you are so strong! Well done to all who overcame the pain and finished the race. A serious accomplishment.
Can we have another World Cup Marathon in South Africa in 2013 please..
The Senior category podium. (Ariane Kleinhans, Candice Neethling and Sam Saunders)
Next, my focus is on the Cross Country World Cup in Pietermaritzburg. This will no doubt present me with my next lot of challenges to overcome. The track is looking world class! Spectators are going to love the entertainment too.
Keep following to hear of my adventures on my BMC..
One always seems to overlook and downplay the route profile, when seen on paper. Physically going out there and conquering those mountains, is a different story altogether. Ask anyone who completed the marathon at Sabie..
A few countries were represented on the Womens startline. It was great to have some internationals in South Africa raising the standard of competition, and in turn, raising the athletes' game. The gun exploded with a bang, and a very animated Max Cluer sent us off with great enthusiasm. Unfortunately, the hype and buzz of the startline madness was short lived, as Ariane Kleinhans (Contego) began to dish out the pain on the base of the long climb. A string of riders attempted to hold her pace, one of these being myself. I am a cross country racer at heart, so it is in my blood to chase hard in the beginning, in the attempt to not let the leader disappear out of sight. My attempt was (almost) successful:) Reaching the summit of the climb 30kms into the race, I crossed the KOM line in second place with others (Ischen Stopforth and Yolande Speedy) hot on my tail! I also knew at this point, that it was going to be a battle to the finish line for me. My legs had felt "jelly-like" the entire day, but I was trying to keep mentally strong. Looking back, i think there is value in being made to suffer like this- it teaches you the meaning of the Afrikanns word "vasbyt". Basically- grind your teeth, dig deep into the pain barrier and move onwards.I was beginning to feel the effects of my efforts in the first part of the race, and in turn was passed by Teresa (Biogen) who rode with extreme determination on the day. The third water point/tech zone came 47kms in, where i was welcomed with full bottles, splashes of water and chain lube by Philip Vosloo and family. My ever- emptying tank was filled up by the encouragement and support I received there. Legs burning, but motivation existing, I embraced the last 30kms.
The last 10kms was where the I lost the race. The heat was unbearable and shivers were running through my body. I was passed by Ischen Stopforth and Yolande Speedy, who came charging from behind. Their age and experience outdid my lack thereof. However, I refused to give up. One million rocks, 2100m of climbing and 2 falls later, I crossed the finish line in 5th place. At 20 years old, I was happy with my result in this challenging marathon. What made me even happier though, was the ice cold coke I sat and enjoyed at the end of a rough day on the bike! Pure heaven:)
Managed to find a smile:) (Possibly after the coke)
Can we have another World Cup Marathon in South Africa in 2013 please..
The Senior category podium. (Ariane Kleinhans, Candice Neethling and Sam Saunders)
Next, my focus is on the Cross Country World Cup in Pietermaritzburg. This will no doubt present me with my next lot of challenges to overcome. The track is looking world class! Spectators are going to love the entertainment too.
Keep following to hear of my adventures on my BMC..
Monday, February 20
Momentum Health XCO- Giba Gorge
In contrast to the hot, dry dusty conditions we experienced last week in Durbanville, Saturdays race took place in muddy, damp, cool conditions. The light drizzle and extreme humidity posed a challenge to all riders. Giba Gorge, situated in KZN, close to Hillcrest is a mountain biking park that is a network of trails scattered across the mountainside. Any mountain bikers dream! This weekend, the racing was confined to a 5km course, designed and built by Nick Floros. Clover leaf in shape, the course had the riders looping back to the start every 5-10 minutes, making for maximum spectator value. This, combined with the muddy conditions and Max Cluers commentating, had the spectators buzzing with excitement for the duration of the event.
After some entertaining interviews on the start line to calm the nerves, (or hype them up), we were off to a blistering start. The moment that gun went off, i could feel the adrenaline rushing through my body, as we sprinted up the road in pursuit of the prime spot in the singletrack. I could see the red rocket of Ashleigh Parker-Moffatt (BMC) in the corner of my eye, which resulted in me digging slightly deeper in the attempt to grab that front spot. Content with my start and how my legs were feeling, i lead the group through the first half of the course. Considering the speed at which we were handling those slippery corners and rocky sections, it surprises me that I was able to stay upright. Amazing what adrenaline can do!
The end of the first lap saw Yolande Speedy (USN), myself and Sam Saunders (Valencia) sticking to one another like glue. I could feel that today was going to be a good one for me. I was feeling fresh, and ready to dish out some pain. (Or to handle the pain being dished out). Last weekends misfortunes had me even more inspired to race the race I had hoped for, missing no opportunities. The lead switched a few times in the first two laps between myself and Speedy, both in an attempt to be the one calling the shots up front. I soon realised that as long as i stuck close enough behind her, i would in turn be applying pressure from behind, and would be able to gauge where her strengths and weaknesses lie, hopefully being able to use the weaknesses against her in the later laps. It was interesting for me to watch the 29er and how it handled different aspects of the course. My 26inch BMC hardtail was definitely the pick of the day, as it handled those tight switchbacks with style and precision.
And there I sat, pressure building, humidity rising and teeth grinding for 5 laps. The race was longer than usual for me. Being an under 23 racing in the pro-elite category, i knew that Yolande had the experience and patience to play the game smartly, whereas I was more anxious and impulsive. This comes with just having turned 20, but i wasn't going to let that play with my mind. What doesnt kill you makes you stronger. The next few laps had the spectators screaming for us as we flew past. I remember wishing for more spectators on the long and lonely climbs mid-way through the lap. This is where the real work was being done, and the pain increased exponentially with each lap. The spectators are what keep me motivated when Im down to nothing. They truly are in support of you, and to see them going absolutely crazy as you pass by, does wonders at filling up the emptying tank! The pace was relentless, and I knew that the final lap would be the decider...
Yolandes experience and knowledge was in her favour as she rode clear of me on the last lap, after i had stumbled up one of the muddy banks. I crossed the finish line seconds behind her after an epic, muddy battle. This marked the end of one of the most exciting races of my career, as well as the most enjoyable one. I had the time of my life out there. This is what I love to do, and a race of this nature grows my passion for what I do. It also cultivates that fighting spirit within me, which plays a crucial role in this type of racing. Im excited for what lies in store! Bring on the next few weeks...
Looking somewhat fatigued, I explained the happenings to an energised Max Cluer.
Yolande Speedy and myself trying to rationally discuss what just happened..
What a successful event. KZN MTB has really stepped XC racing up a notch! You are doing a brilliant job and I look forward to the future of our sport in your capable hands. Prize-giving saw the top 10 women and top 15 men being rewarded for their efforts. Now that is what Im talking about! Well done soldiers. You fought a good battle!
Hey Yolande, what was in that mysteriously huge box??
3 BMC Women (Myself, Ashleigh and Simone Vosloo) in the top 10! :)
Next week Im off to the lowveld for some marathon action in Sabie. Come watch if you are in the area, otherwise, just keep reading.
CN
The end of the first lap saw Yolande Speedy (USN), myself and Sam Saunders (Valencia) sticking to one another like glue. I could feel that today was going to be a good one for me. I was feeling fresh, and ready to dish out some pain. (Or to handle the pain being dished out). Last weekends misfortunes had me even more inspired to race the race I had hoped for, missing no opportunities. The lead switched a few times in the first two laps between myself and Speedy, both in an attempt to be the one calling the shots up front. I soon realised that as long as i stuck close enough behind her, i would in turn be applying pressure from behind, and would be able to gauge where her strengths and weaknesses lie, hopefully being able to use the weaknesses against her in the later laps. It was interesting for me to watch the 29er and how it handled different aspects of the course. My 26inch BMC hardtail was definitely the pick of the day, as it handled those tight switchbacks with style and precision.
And there I sat, pressure building, humidity rising and teeth grinding for 5 laps. The race was longer than usual for me. Being an under 23 racing in the pro-elite category, i knew that Yolande had the experience and patience to play the game smartly, whereas I was more anxious and impulsive. This comes with just having turned 20, but i wasn't going to let that play with my mind. What doesnt kill you makes you stronger. The next few laps had the spectators screaming for us as we flew past. I remember wishing for more spectators on the long and lonely climbs mid-way through the lap. This is where the real work was being done, and the pain increased exponentially with each lap. The spectators are what keep me motivated when Im down to nothing. They truly are in support of you, and to see them going absolutely crazy as you pass by, does wonders at filling up the emptying tank! The pace was relentless, and I knew that the final lap would be the decider...
Yolandes experience and knowledge was in her favour as she rode clear of me on the last lap, after i had stumbled up one of the muddy banks. I crossed the finish line seconds behind her after an epic, muddy battle. This marked the end of one of the most exciting races of my career, as well as the most enjoyable one. I had the time of my life out there. This is what I love to do, and a race of this nature grows my passion for what I do. It also cultivates that fighting spirit within me, which plays a crucial role in this type of racing. Im excited for what lies in store! Bring on the next few weeks...
Looking somewhat fatigued, I explained the happenings to an energised Max Cluer.
Yolande Speedy and myself trying to rationally discuss what just happened..
What a successful event. KZN MTB has really stepped XC racing up a notch! You are doing a brilliant job and I look forward to the future of our sport in your capable hands. Prize-giving saw the top 10 women and top 15 men being rewarded for their efforts. Now that is what Im talking about! Well done soldiers. You fought a good battle!
Hey Yolande, what was in that mysteriously huge box??
3 BMC Women (Myself, Ashleigh and Simone Vosloo) in the top 10! :)
Next week Im off to the lowveld for some marathon action in Sabie. Come watch if you are in the area, otherwise, just keep reading.
CN
Monday, February 13
This weekend, the majority of the country's two-wheeled fanatics headed for the hills of Durbanville for some racing action. Friday the 10th- there was a buzz around Chris Willemse Cycles and the usual friday afternoon shoppers were overwhelmed by the presence and energy of mountain bikers in their hundreds. Being the first XC race of the season for most, the need to "make an impression" was that much greater. This in turn meant more time spent "studying" lines and making sure that pre- race prep bordered on perfection.
That being said- I find XC Mountain Bikers in South Africa to be a special crowd. Among all the nerves and gitters, a large group gathered on the sunny Friday afternoon to enjoy and support a team aspect of the sport. I was part of the KZN Team comprised of Burry Stander (Specialised Factory Racing), Kyle Dorkin (Ellsworth) and Travis Walker (Jeep). Myself included, many saw this as an opportunity to experience what a lap of the track at race pace feels like. Thinking this was a superb idea at the time, I set off at a hot pace in pursuit of Louis Bresler-Knipe who was racing for the Western Cape Team. Needless to say, he disappeared from sight. Maybe one day....
1km in, I began to wish that I hadn't opted for the race pace lap. Lungs were on fire, legs were burning and I felt as if i was going to swallow my heart. However, i learnt that in order to perform the following day, I was going to need a solid, robust warm up, and to establish a good rhythm early on.
Race day dawned, and once again i arose to the pitter patter of rain on the roof. That joke is getting stale now! Although I do realize that it develops a huge amount of mental strength. You can never have enough of that in this game.
During my warm up, the sun came out from behind the clouds- always a reassuring sign:) Confident in my preparation, i made my way to the start line where I joined my team mate Ashleigh Parker-Moffatt who was looking ready to go as always. I always find it strange how the second the gun fires, all previous thoughts, emotions and nerves seem to suddenly disappear with that piercing bang. All that matters is the task that lies ahead..
Feeling strong and fresh, I zoomed my way through the first lap with much focus and speed. Unfortunately, speed became my enemy when it caused my front wheel to wash out from beneath me on a steep, dusty bank near the end of the lap. I hit that ground so suddenly, that the sheer shock of it all took my breath away, and I found myself gasping for air. I managed to collect myself and pick up the pieces within a few moments. After straightening my handlebars, I mounted my BMC and proceeded onward, feeling as dizzy and confused as if i had just come off a roller coaster. The next few laps for me felt as if i was fighting a losing battle. My body was bruised, as well as my confidence, which was a challenge to deal with. Pace and rhythm were two things i searched for, but failed to find, as I found myself stopping and starting to mend and patch up the effects of my fall. It was one of those frustrating races, where you know you have the condition to perform, but circumstances prevent you from doing so. I must add though, that somehow, from somewhere, I found a sense of rhythm on my final lap. Exhausted and covered in dust and blood, I was delighted to see the finish line, which I had dreamed of crossing for a while now.
Adding to the bonus of crossing the line, I managed a first place in the U23 category, with Ashleigh Parker Moffatt close behind. More importantly though, I learnt some valuable lessons about fighting back after a setback. It is a painful process, but one that every athlete needs to endure in order to be a champion one day. I was also reassured of the strength of my support structure- The BMC-SA Team. Thank you for your endless ongoing encouragement and help. Johann- You are a star, and I look forward to working with you. Philip- Thanks for the laughs, I needed them:)
The BMC Team had a "stomping" weekend, with red, black and white splashed over almost every category's podium! Keep working at it. Its only the beginning of a long season in which you will all be successful- I just know:)
Im flying home today, back to the green hills of KZN, where more XC racing is to follow. Giba Gorge UCI Cat 2 race takes place in Hillcrest next weekend. Im hoping for the best. It will be an exciting week, as my new BMC Fourstroke has arrived and I am DYING to test it out!
Cherio for now
Monday, February 6
My next adventure presented itself in the form of the EP Herald VW Cycle Tour, comprising of an MTB and road race event. I had an enjoyable road trip from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth with James Reid and was excited to face a challenging weekend of racing. Racing is the best form of training. With that being said, I saw this weekend as an opportunity to get in two hard days of training in the lead up to a block of XC racing happening in the next few weeks. And to be honest, I was searching for any excuse to race my BMC's.. what a thrill:)
The EP Herald MTB race on the Saturday was a mud festival! When I woke up to the pouring rain beating on my roof, I had to come to terms with the fact that we were al in the same 'boat'- literally. It had been raining in PE for the last few days and the result was a sticky, wet paste that made for slow going around the edited 90km course. The route featured one main 10km climb, at about 25kms in. The rest was a mixture of farm roads and jeep tracks- all extremely waterlogged. I started cautiously, but quickly realised there was nothing that wasnt going to get absolutely caked in mud. I rode clear of the other women in the first few kilometers, and from there, held my advantage up the main climb of the day. My BMC Team Elite 01 dealt with the mud fantastically and the stiff rear traingle was great for putting some power down, even in the slippery stuff.
On the long, mud-filled roads to the finish, I felt great and extended my advantage to come home a little less than 20 minutes ahead of Heidi Kloem. I must say a big thank you to my sponsor, BMC South Africa for the opportunity to race all over the country. Also- to Judy and the rest of the organisers at the VW Herald Cycle Tour- brilliant organisation in poor conditions!
The Road Race on Sunday is a prestigious event which sees most of the professional road teams in South Africa taking part. It was bound to be an exciting race, as the course was relatively flat with small short hills, making it difficult for attacks by riders to be successful. It felt good to have a win in the bank from yesterday- no pressure or expectations for today. Today was merely about sticking with the bunch and seeing how it pans out. My legs were feeling slightly knackered in the first few kms, but quickly came to the party as the attacks were launched early on. A group of 4 managed to get away, but i stayed with the bunch.
I was impressed with my form, and felt as if I still had quite a lot to give, despite my difficult race the day before. I felt confident on my bike, and could respond to attacks that were thrown.This is a motivating sign at this stage in my training cycle. As per usual with road racing, the final sprint determined the placings. I crossed the line in 9th place in a talented field of women. Well done to Ashleigh Moolman Passio (Toyota), Marissa Stander (Bizhub) and Anriette Schoeman (Bizhub) for their 1st, 2nd and 3rd places respectively.
I was torn apart not to be the grand winner of the VW Polo that was given away, but I still had a smile on my face due to a successful weekend of racing! Sunday evening, I was off to Plettenberg Bay with James Reid and Kevin Evans for a celebratory dinner and glass of red wine at "The Table".. What a beaut spot! Highly recommended..
Next up will be my experiences at the first National XC race in Durbanville. Holding thumbs:) Keep reading to find out more..
The EP Herald MTB race on the Saturday was a mud festival! When I woke up to the pouring rain beating on my roof, I had to come to terms with the fact that we were al in the same 'boat'- literally. It had been raining in PE for the last few days and the result was a sticky, wet paste that made for slow going around the edited 90km course. The route featured one main 10km climb, at about 25kms in. The rest was a mixture of farm roads and jeep tracks- all extremely waterlogged. I started cautiously, but quickly realised there was nothing that wasnt going to get absolutely caked in mud. I rode clear of the other women in the first few kilometers, and from there, held my advantage up the main climb of the day. My BMC Team Elite 01 dealt with the mud fantastically and the stiff rear traingle was great for putting some power down, even in the slippery stuff.
On the long, mud-filled roads to the finish, I felt great and extended my advantage to come home a little less than 20 minutes ahead of Heidi Kloem. I must say a big thank you to my sponsor, BMC South Africa for the opportunity to race all over the country. Also- to Judy and the rest of the organisers at the VW Herald Cycle Tour- brilliant organisation in poor conditions!
The Road Race on Sunday is a prestigious event which sees most of the professional road teams in South Africa taking part. It was bound to be an exciting race, as the course was relatively flat with small short hills, making it difficult for attacks by riders to be successful. It felt good to have a win in the bank from yesterday- no pressure or expectations for today. Today was merely about sticking with the bunch and seeing how it pans out. My legs were feeling slightly knackered in the first few kms, but quickly came to the party as the attacks were launched early on. A group of 4 managed to get away, but i stayed with the bunch.
I was impressed with my form, and felt as if I still had quite a lot to give, despite my difficult race the day before. I felt confident on my bike, and could respond to attacks that were thrown.This is a motivating sign at this stage in my training cycle. As per usual with road racing, the final sprint determined the placings. I crossed the line in 9th place in a talented field of women. Well done to Ashleigh Moolman Passio (Toyota), Marissa Stander (Bizhub) and Anriette Schoeman (Bizhub) for their 1st, 2nd and 3rd places respectively.
I was torn apart not to be the grand winner of the VW Polo that was given away, but I still had a smile on my face due to a successful weekend of racing! Sunday evening, I was off to Plettenberg Bay with James Reid and Kevin Evans for a celebratory dinner and glass of red wine at "The Table".. What a beaut spot! Highly recommended..
Next up will be my experiences at the first National XC race in Durbanville. Holding thumbs:) Keep reading to find out more..
Wednesday, February 1
2012 is here! Its time to get fired up for some exciting racing. Its that time of the year when everyone is keen to test the legs after a racing "drought"- the month of December. I had many feelings going into my first MTB race of 2012- which happened to be the MTN Marathon in Barberton. There was the odd doubt in my mind, but the confidence that accompanied a new beginning overwhelmed and overcame these doubts. Also, having received a gold medal at KZN Road Championships the weekend before was fuel to my quiet confidence. Two words that most accurately describe this lowveld town- HEAT and HILLS! This is precisely what you experience while standing on the start line in a giant basin surrounded by monstrous mountains. Its like peering through your hands while watching a scary movie- you don't want to see it, but at the same time, you want the full experience. Thats what I came here for. All or nothing! Embrace those mountains guns blazing..
My preparation in the few days preceding the race had been ideal! The crew at Misty Valley Lodge (a peaceful 4 star lodge located an hour from Barberton), headed by Philip Vosloo had treated me like royalty! Nothing was ever a problem- these people know no limits. I am so grateful for their unselfish efforts and never ending energy, as this enabled me to focus on the task at hand.
The task- ride that BMC beast up and over the mountains, crossing 14 rivers along the way as quickly as you possibly can. (Simple- right?) Hmmm;) Coming from a Cross Country backround, I always enjoy the comparitively "gentle" start in the marathon distance. After a neutral zone of about 6km, the climb to the highest point began with Ariane Kleinhans (Team Contego) taking the lead up front- pedaling at an insane intensity! Taking a chance, I quickly stuck to her back wheel in an attempt to prevent her from simply riding away from the rest of us. I was impressed with the lightness and responsiveness of my new BMC TE01, and was so thankful i went with the hardtail option for this racing terrain. After a few painful minutes of ascending, i decided to drop back and tackle this climb on my own- creating my own rhythm and pace, with the goal of not letting Ariane disappear into the distance.
The journey to the summit was an epic one! "Sense of humour loss" is a genuine and common diagnosis on the way to the top. One would assume that the race for "king of the mountains" would take place at the summit of a climb- apparently not in Barberton. This being one of the numerous ways in which you could quickly lose your sense of humour. With lactic acid pumping through my legs and the sun blazing onto my arms, I peered down at my Garmin when I came over the horizon- It had been 35kms since the base of the climb. And it was all downhill from there.. literally.. and this was a good thing!
Just incase you hadn't lost your sense if humour on the way up- the way down was comprised of 14 river crossings, some of which you are almost completely immersed in water. At this stage i had accepted that I probably wasnt going to catch that Swiss bolt, but my best chance is to stay away from the chasing women, namely Ischen Stopforth (Bizhub) and Karien van Jaarsveld (MTN Qhubeka).
My attempt was successful and I was delighted to cross the finish line in second place behind Ariane- who rode an incredible race!
Being the first time racing my BMC, this was a mere taste of the sheer enjoyment I am going to experience the rest of the season. I am excited and blessed to have the privilege to be part of this team and to race such a high quality bicycle!
Next.. Im off to Cape town for some training before EP Herald and the first XC National in Cape Town. Keep reading for updates:)
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