Papo, Vorster earn more series points

Even an hour before the 08:00 start, the dust was already hanging heavily in the air as 165 riders started warming up for the Ugab Terrace MTB race at Sophienhof Lodge near Outjo last Saturday.This stretch of the Gravel & Dirt MTB Marathon series powered by Hollard, earned the respect of all the cyclists due to its challenging single tracks and fast paced stretches – by no means a casual cycle in the park for even the most experienced of riders.The line-up welcomed all the familiar mountain biking veterans back to take on the 70 km and 40 km distances set out before them. Both routes challenged the riders with sandy and rocky terrain, as well as the climb to the Ugab Terrace, sporting a beautiful view, but equally treacherous descent. It truly is an event that tests not only the physical endurance, but also the technical know-how of every rider to take up the challenge.From the starting line Xavier Papo immediately showing clear intent as he sprinted ahead of the group, but with the likes of Drikus Coetzee hot on his heels this was by no means going to be a simple task. In the women's elite category, Michelle Vorster, Irene Steyn and Michelle Döman ensured that this year's event was once again going to be an action packed race where the best of the best would test their skills not only against each other, but against one of the best tracks the Namibian calendar can throw at them.Two hours and 47 minutes later, wearing the colours of Team Hollard, Papo raced over the finish line with his arms raised in emphatic style as he took first place in the overall 70 km men's race, three minutes ahead of his nearest rival Drikus Coetzee (2:50:38) finishing in the same time as veteran Clinton Hilfiker. The first sub-veteran Ingram Cuff was close behind them in 2:53:22.In the 70 km elite women's race, Michelle Vorster (3:02:22) dominated with a full 19 minute lead ahead of Irene Steyn (3:21:32) in second and Michelle Döman (3:38:12) in third.The Gravel & Dirt MTB Series powered by Hollard does not only cater for mountain bikers, but also delivers a platform for trial runners, which is why this year's Ugab Terrace MTB included a 10 km fun run as part of its entry options. Organisers were proud to see the turnout of each inclusive event as more and more runners take on the Gravel & Dirt.The Gravel & Dirt MTB Series organisers expressed thanks to each and every rider who took on and dominated the Ugab Terrace MTB, as well as Sophienhof Lodge for providing such an amazing venue for the riders. SPONSORSA very special thanks goes out to the series sponsors, Hollard, Namibia Breweries, Gondwana, Dulux, Nexus, Food Lovers Market, Pupkewitz Megabuild, Sasa Safari Camp, Adeva, Herman Krause Insurance Brokers, Puma, Total, Weimann's Garage, OK Foods, Be Hair, Eldorado Guest House, Multicon Namibia, Etosha Garden Hotel, Platinum Plumbing, Robran, Riverside Pharmacy, Rhino Trek, Plumbco, Mannies Bike Mecca, Bank Windhoek, Basecamp Namibia, Namibian Cycling Federation, Northern Fuel Distributors and Krank'd Clothing, whose support enabled yet another amazing event to be a reality for the local Namibian riders.• This Saturday riders take on the Skyride MTB Marathon just outside of Windhoek at Heja Lodge. The organisers hope to see yet another record breaking turn out as this event has in the past proved to be a favourite amongst local riders. See you on the Gravel & Dirt!

Papo, Vorster earn more series points

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Republikein 2025-05-01

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Papo, Vorster earn more series points

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Republikein 2025-05-01

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