HB Kruger will be hoping for a successful title defence on Sunday, 16 September 2018 when he takes on the +- 60km Fedhealth MTB Challenge (Marathon) at Boschendal Farm Estate (The Retreat).
Kruger claimed victory in 2017 in an impressive time of 02 hours 51 minutes. “The Fedhealth MTB Challenge is one of my favourite one day events,” says Kruger. “Claiming gold in 2017 was an amazing feeling. It was one of my first races back after my shoulder injury. The route featured some great single track in the picturesque Winelands. The win was a big morale booster.”
“I’d definitely recommend the Fedhealth MTB Challenge to other mountain bikers,” continues Kruger. “The routes are beautiful, well-marked and there are various distances that cater for all types of mountain bikers. I am really looking forward to racing on the Boschendal trails. My goal is to get to the top step of the podium.”
Riding for the same team, Nicol Carstens and Jurgens Uys are sure to be tough competition in the +- 60km Fedhealth MTB Challenge (Marathon).
“I never say no to a challenge,” says Carstens. “The trails in and around Boschendal are sure to be challenging and rewarding. I finished 3rd at the 2015 Fedhealth MTB Challenge. I’d love to better my result this year. I am looking forward to shredding the awesome Boschendal trails and spending time with family and friends afterwards.”
Uys will be gauging his fitness levels at the 2018 Fedhealth MTB Challenge. “I am looking forward to racing the Marathon again this year. I finished third in 2017. I’m expecting some steep climbs and good trails. My goal is to either better my finishing position or help my teammate (Nicol) get a win.”
Natia van Heerden (Fedhealth Ambassador/Adventure Athlete/Chef) from Hazyview (Mpumalanga) will take on the +-30km Fedhealth MTB Challenge (Half Marathon). “I did the 60km Marathon in 2017 and absolutely loved it,” says van Heerden. “The event was so well organised, the vibe was amazing with really good food and music. The trails were well kept, technical but flowing. It really was a fun weekend.”
“The competition was strong in the women’s field,” continues van Heerden. “I am hoping to see even more strong cyclists racing this year. My goal is to have a good race. I’m in good shape and would be really happy with a podium finish.”
EVENT INFORMATION:
Highlighting the magnificent trails of Boschendal and the Banhoek Conservancy, the 2018 Fedhealth MTB Challenge boasts a 15km Fun Ride, +-30km Half Marathon and +-60km Marathon.
Saturday, 15 September 2018
| Event & Time: | Fedhealth Kids MTB Events: not timed
· 500m / 0 – 5 years of age / 10:30 · 1.5km / 6 – 9 years of age / 11:00 · 5km / 10 – 13 years of age / 11:30 |
| Entry Fee: | R100 |
Sunday, 16 September 2018
| Time: | 08:00 |
| Event: | +- 60km Fedhealth MTB Challenge (Marathon) |
| Entry Fee: | R350 per rider (excludes CSA License) |
| Time: | 08:30 |
| Event: | +-30km Fedhealth MTB Challenge (Half Marathon) |
| Entry Fee: | R250 per rider (excludes CSA License) |
| Time: | 09:00 |
| Event: | 15km Fedhealth MTB Challenge (Fun Ride) |
| Entry Fee: | R150 per rider |
Once across the finish line, all mountain bikers will be treated to a foot massage in the Falke Foot Zone. The Festival Village will be a hub of excitement. Enjoy a Flying Fish beer with a mouth-watering meal while listening to a live performance by Newton & Co.
WIN WIN WIN: Two lucky 2018 Fedhealth MTB Challenge riders will take home a whopping R10 000 gift voucher (each) compliments of Specialized Bicycles Africa, a proud partner of the 2018 event.
The 2018 Fedhealth MTB Challenge, in association with Specialized Bicycles Africa, will also boast a Turbo E-bike category. Please Note: This category will start in its own batch, but will not feature prize money.
FREE ENTRY: Fedhealth members can enter free of charge – simply by typing in their membership number when entering online!
Facebook: Fedhealth Medical Aid / Stillwater MTB Events
Twitter: @Fedhealthmed / @Stillwater_MTB
Website: www.stillwatersports.com
For more information or to enter the Fedhealth MTB Challenge, contact Stillwater Sports on 082 991 0045 or email [email protected]
ENDS
Issued by: NEWSPORT MEDIA
On behalf of: FEDHEALTH and STILLWATER SPORTS