Race report: SA Champs at Hayterdale, Port Elizabeth

On our way there we passed a small town called Hankey, I think I should go retire there.

The last weekend of my almost eight week long holiday saw us heading to Port Elizabeth for the South African Downhill Champs. We weren't planning on attending this event, but Hanco's arm got twisted when one of our young rider's dad invited us to accompany them. We were soon looking forward to the weekend: a scenic road trip, a few days away and some awesome mountain biking.

Sunrise in Plett

The roadtrip to PE was extremely long but the scenic views made up for it. Driving through Knysna and Plett with the forests  beside the road put us in the mood for trail riding and we are planning another roadtrip in that direction with that aim soon.

The Game fence jump.

I was unsure of the nature of the Hayterdale DH track and decided to leave my Nukeproof at home  and rather take my hardtail to enjoy the rest of the famous Hayterdale trails instead. I also entered a small 26km race that was being held on the Sunday morning before the DH race where I placed first for the ladies.We are spoilt with Jonkershoek as our backyard and Hayterdale just cannot compare. It was awesome to experience new trails, but I was longing for the fast flowing descends we have so much of in Jonkers. After a few kilometres, I got used to the terrain and started enjoying the trails more. I would not call them beginner friendly as some of them seem to have not seen maintenance in a while, but they are definitely challenging and enjoyable. It was a nice break from the perfectly manicured trails that is very common in the Cape (read Northern Suburbs).  It is also an amazing experience to see wildlife almost right next to you while riding!

This little guy was enjoying the grass more then the Downhill action.

Arné at the start of the Little Zuurberg trek.

And off she goes.

While I spent the weekend riding trails and snapping pics of the downhill riders, Hanco and Jason were shredding the downhill track. Both boys really enjoyed the track and felt that it suited them quite well. The only complaint was due to the insane amount of thorns everywhere!

Jason pinning the Canyon gap, me having a bite after my crash there.

Game fence jump into step down! This track is so fun!

The XCO champs was held at the same venue on the Saturday and I took time out to watch the race a bit and to support some of our WP riders like Chris and Gina Nixon. I gained new respect for them after seeing the XC course and the obstacles they had to maneuver on their hardtails. After riding a section of the same course on the Sunday, I experienced why this course is seen as one of the best in South Africa. It is a really exciting track with interesting obstacles around every corner.

My seeding run over the Game fence jump and adding some style over the step down in my race run.

The WP riders did not disappoint on the Sunday and we were proud to see so many of them on the podium. I was also very happy to see Hanco getting first place in the Sports category.

Arné a very happy lady after her win and me on the podium.

Highlights of the weekend included the amazing hospitality of Jason and his dad, our awesome accommodation, being able to enjoy my most favorite breakfast - Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise, seeing all the friendly faces from the WP crowd and getting to see Nyalas almost at arm's reach. Well done to the organizers and everyone who took part in the races! See you at the next one!

It was a long drive back and it didn't take them long to doze off.

Our beautiful country.

Thanks again to Jason and his dad (and mom!) for their hospitality and for granting us this amazing opportunity!  Jason had to race in the under 16 category since he had no competition in his age group. Despite this, he was only 9 seconds slower than the National Champ and also beat two other 16 year old riders in that class who are 3 years older than him! Congrats you little pinner!

Jason and his Dad, aka "The Mechanic"

Watch out for young Jason flying through the air at 2:21 in this video:


SA MTB Champs 2013 from Greg Ritz on Vimeo.