REDSTONE ANGRY ALLIGATOR MTB RACE

HARTBEESPOORT . GAUTENG

SUN 17.07.2011

Andre, being welcomed at the finish line after his 50km race by his son

Tiaan van der Merwe (winner of the 25km MTB race).

The start of the Angry Alligator MTB Race at the entrance to the

Redstone Private Country Estate at the Hartbeespoort Dam

Bennie Bester

082 783 0086

info@singletrack.co.za

Race Report by Amy McDougall - Team Crank Brothers

The Angry Alligator mtb race in Magaliesburg at RedStone Estate is a must-do for riders of every kind. The 25km and 50km routes, built for the more hard-core type suckers-for-punishment, consist of two killer climbs with lots of challenging and exciting single track in between. The 20km is a much easier route with a few small climbs and great riverside jeep and single track. We all have Bennie Bester from Singletrack Mountainbike and Lifestyle Shop to thank for super-sweet trails and a well organised race!

Unfortunately I could not race, as I am recovering from a minor injury, so I went as a spectator – weird feeling. The perfect conditions and standing on the route with a crazy photographer was fun, but made me very jealous of all the mountain bikers putting their skills and endurance to test.

I interviewed a few of the mountain bikers for their experience of the race, let’s see what they thought!
‘’I’d say it’s one of the nicest courses in Gauteng, technical ups and downs. Proper mtb race!” -Fred Leygonie (doing the 50km race on a single speed and getting top 20, very respectable!)
‘’Was a very hilly and technical race. Was challenging to all riders that took part, with steep climbs and technical descents putting riders’ skills and fitness to the test! A great event.” -Robert Frost. (Team Cotic).

“Hard race, steep, rocky, loose, dry, not merely a fun race! Amazing views of the dam and river make the hard work worthwhile. Will do it again!” -Miguel Da Silva. (3rd sub vet male 50km)
“The most technical race I have done this year.” -Ronel Van Wyk. (2nd 50km lady and previous SA champion road cyclist)
“Jy moet wakker wees! If you don’t concentrate you will get a surprise.” –Dirk Nel
“Tough! Great technical ride. Very varied terrain. Not a race for the timid.” -Petruschka Constancon (3rd 50km lady).

“Hectic tough trail that drains your energy, tests your abilities and fitness. I enjoyed it! -Eric Schipper (Owner and builder of the trails in Van Gaalens Cheese Farm.)

Judging from comments and facial expressions at the finish area, it seems like two things are guaranteed: Lots of suffering and even more enjoyment, which, of course, is why we keep coming back for more! See you in September for #3!

Carla van Huyssteen, winner of the 50km

women's race. Carla has just come back from France where she was the 5th women home in the Xterra at Xonrupt on 10 July 2011.

James Ross-Marsh going up the cement road,

with a spectacular view in the background.

Slahde Seale being interviewed after

coming 2nd in the 50km race.

Dylan Opperman (3 years) can't wait to also compete in the Angry Alligator MTB race.

Alex Pavlov (1st in 50km), after 13km, with

Bradley Mitchell (3rd place) behind him.

click here to view full race results

Carla van Huyssteen

Ronel van Wyk

Odette Bergh

There's no shame in some walking, 5 minutes from the finish line.