Vines and Views MTB Classic 2022

The Vines and Views MTB Classic was the most talked about event of 2021 and excitement for 3 September is boiling over! In this newsletter we’re going to address some of the most frequently asked questions.

ROUTE: The link to the full route description (75km) appears at the end of this newsletter. The 55km and 30km events share the same route, albeit in different segments. The routes are not overly technical, although not suitable for gravel bikes. Weather wise, you needn’t lose too much sleep. Vredendal and surroundings have a very mild climate in September. In the unlikely event of rain, the trails have very good drainage and should pose little trouble. Sand? We don’t do sand. Small sandy patches on the mountain normally compacts very nicely after the winter rain and should pose no problems. You needn’t pack a GPS. Our trails are well marked.

Many events claim this, but we’ll prove that this trail is TRULY UNIQUE. This event was designed to cater for every type of rider while adding some unique features not seen on the mountain bike circuit. Trails are built by experienced and passionate mountain bikers. 70% jeep track; 25% gravel road; 5% single-track (75km route). This is truly the one trail to rule them all.

The 75km and 55km events start at Die Keldery at 07:30 and 08:15 respectively. The 30km event starts at Idma@Kapel at 09:00. (Basic transport from the finish venue to the start of the 30km event is available. Details will be communicated at Friday’s race briefing.) 

All 3 distances end at Die Keldery (where we’ll resume festivities....) 

75km: 4 waterpoints

55km: 3 waterpoints

30km: 1 waterpoint

The LUTZVILLE VINEYARDS VASBYT HILL CLIMB CHALLENGE, presented by Lutzville Vineyards, has seen a major revamp from last year. The infamous Skaapkop will be challenged from a different angle which allows riders a fantastic panoramic view of the valley. The “party on the hill” will also have a different setup to allow more serious racers to pass unobstructed. The first 3 places in both men and lady’s categories will win prizes, compliments of Lutzville Vineyards. Just make sure you’re on Strava!

LOCATION of the various venues and POI’s will be send two weeks prior the event.

REGISTRATION will open on Thursday 1 Sept at Klawer Wine Cellar from 12:00-16:00 and Friday 2 Sept from 08:00-12:00. This gives riders who stay in the outskirts of town and/or want to make a long weekend of the festival, a more suitable option for registration. The main registration will commence at Idma@Kapel (same as last year) on Friday 2 Sept from 16:00-20:00. There will be 2 race briefings on Friday at 18:00 and 19:00. Please try and attend these as vital information will be shared. Furthermore, a bunch of lucky draws and festivities await at the main registration. Late registrations and entries on race day will only be done between 06:00 and 07:00 at Die Keldery. Late entries on race day do not qualify for goodie bags.

RACETEC/CSA: Riders not in possession of a Racetec timing board (compulsory) can purchase one at registration at R50 each. The same applies to a Cycling SA rider permit. CSA day licenses can be bought at registration.

PRIZE GIVING: Relaxed Covid regulations allow us to host a prize giving on race Saturday at 12:30. Further lucky draws will also be handed out.

ONLINE SHOP: Please have look at the Idma meal option for Friday. These meals can only be booked in advance. Boerewors rolls will be sold on site. Please support NGK Klawer’s lovely picnic at Klawer Wine Cellar on Sunday 4 Sept. Have a look at the picnic boxes in our online store as well as the “grab & go” option, ideal for riders in a hurry home. And the big news! Don’t be caught napping with our stunning new cycling shirts. Get yours ASAP as these stocks are limited and flying! If you have a query regarding sizing, please e-mail us.

SPECTATOR POINT. Teubes Wines is a classy wine estate adjacent to the finish venue. This year riders will turn at the fountain on the porch of Teubes Wines’ tasting room/restaurant. This means spectators will have much more engagement with riders. This is the perfect place to enjoy some splendid food and beverages while viewing the event literally within touching distance of the riders. Teubes Wines has a playground to keep the kids entertained while supporters enjoy the spectacle. There will also be a marquee tent with live music to keep the die-hard adventure seekers entertained until late on Saturday.

FUN RUN/WALK/RIDE at Teubes Family Wines on race Saturday 09:30. Supporters can sleep a bit later and join a relaxed outing through the vineyards of Teubes Wines. The distance is roughly 5km and the route is the final 5km of the cycling events’. It’s easy and relaxed. Online entry is not required. Donations can be done by means of an honesty box. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. A tractor pulled cart will carry fun runners/walkers back to Teubes Wines, just in time to watch the cyclists passing through.

ACCOMMODATION: There are several options ranging from rustic camping & glamping to stylish B&B’s but do not wait until the last minute to book your lodging. Vines and Views coincides with the annual wildflower season in the region, so make sure you book your lodging well in advance. Please e-mail Eonie at wine@visitnwc.com for assistance in this regard.

MEDICS are on standby, but please pack your own medicine particularly in case of allergies (bee sting).