FNB Wines2Whales set to kick off with a rewarding Stage One

ByMtbApp

FNB Wines2Whales set to kick off with a rewarding Stage One

 The 2017 FNB Wines2Whales (W2W) Mountain Bike (MTB) Events will kick off at the picturesque Lourensford Wine Estate on Friday, 27 October 2017 with Stage One of the FNB W2W MTB Adventure. The first of three stages, Stage One boasts a spectacular 68km route that features an impressive 1650m ascent.

“Iconic sections will include the Lourensford and Vergelegen climbs, the PERI Vergelegen Bridge, the portage over Gantouw Pass and the A2Z single tracks,” says Johan Kriegler, FNB W2W MTB Director.  “The Lourensford climb with downhill is the best gravel highway in South Africa.  Expect good gravel roads, jeep tracks and single tracks. The good news is that the Gantouw Pass is the only portage section on the FNB W2W route and it features on Stage One.  It is rocky.” “We’ve made some changes to the A2Z trails,” continues Kriegler.  “Sections B and C are more flowing, while W has been excluded due to it being too technical.  Instead we’ve extended V, adding a more flowing downhill exit.  We’ve also included three new single tracks in Molteno.  The rest of Molteno however has changed, as not to interfere with farm activities.”

“My advice to first time riders is to pace well.  Stage One starts with the 8km Lourensford climb.  Don’t get pulled into the hype and frenzy of other riders.  Cycle your own pace.  Remember there is still another 60km to go.  Be careful at the Lourensford downhill after the climb, it’s very fast with sharp turns and occasional ruts.  Most importantly savor the moment.  Enjoy the route, the scenery and the experience.  We look forward to welcoming you to your race village at Oak Valley Wine Estate, your home for three days.”

EVENT INFORMATION:  FNB Wines2Whales MTB Events

Starting in the Winelands of Somerset West, riders will cross through (and over) 13 wineries, 26 private farms, six mountains, historic roads and mountain passes, nature conservation areas (including the Kogelberg Biosphere) before finishing within sight of the famous whales of Hermanus!

 Stage One:

Distance: 68km

Ascent: 1650m

Water Points: 

  • WP1 / Lourensford Wine Estate on 20km
  • WP2 / Idiom on 36km
  • WP3 / Grabouw Forest on 50km

 Event Dates:

  • FNB Wines2Whales MTB Adventure: Friday, 27 October 2017 – Sunday, 29 October 2017

  • FNB Wines2Whales MTB Ride: Monday, 30 October 2017 – 01 November 2017

·                    FNB Wines2Whales MTB Race:  Friday, 03 November 2017 – Sunday, 05 November 2017

Facebook:  Wines2Whales

Twitter:  @w2wmtb