Amongst a plethora of mountain bike stage races in South Africa, the MTB community is set for a totally new concept in multiple day riding. The 2017 Legacy Tour, taking place from Thursday 16 to Sunday 19 November, in the heart of the KZN Midlands, promises to set new standards in expectations for those fortunate enough to be part of the inaugural event.
Only one hundred teams of two riders will be accommodated, ensuring that the best service and hospitality for every rider is possible. From a complimentary car wash on arrival to a daily bike wash service and physiotherapy session as part of the all-inclusive package, each participant will feel invigorated by being part of something which will tantalize in every way possible.
The core focus of the event is to accommodate the executive who has limited time to train and yet appreciates attention to the finer details in life. The route distances have been selected accordingly and riders of a moderate level of fitness will be able to complete the race. However, time in the saddle to prepare for the Tour is required as the riders will find themselves on top of ridge lines of the lower Drakensberg Mountains, climbing to over 2000m above sea level on Day 2.
The route spans and covers numerous farms in the area and has been made possible by the generous nature of the farm owners who have allowed the riders to pass through unobstructed. Race Director, Devlin Fogg, hasn’t looked for the quickest, shortest or easiest route, rather one which is novel and compelling in all aspects. He has engineered, pioneered and created sections of riding which riders would struggle to experience anywhere else in the country. Riders will traverse spectacular mountains, valleys and forests, cross rivers and dams, through farmlands and rural villages and pristine wildlife sanctuaries. This includes riding past the source of the life giving Umgeni River which feeds KZN. Fogg has been riding bikes for twenty five years and built trails both locally and abroad. His business, Bike Life, also travels the country filming and reviewing cycling destinations, making him one of the country’s leading trail aficionados.
Derek Macaskill (Race Founder), has highlighted the focus of the event is to bring like-minded individuals together who have an appreciation for the natural world, wildlife and the open road along with luxurious amenities, delectable cuisine accompanied by fine wine, decorated whiskies, traditional craft beer and world class entertainment.
Macaskill added, “Legacy is about life and living. It is about learning from the past and keeping those lessons in the present but most importantly leaving something sustainable behind, on which future generations can build.”
The host venue and base camp for the Legacy Tour is Hemyock Farm, owned by former Springbok Captain and Rugby Legend, Gary Teichmann and business partner, James Te Riele. From here riders will venture into the areas of Lotheni, Fort Nottingham and Kamberg, returning each day to an oasis of enjoyment where all their needs will be met.
Companies have the opportunity to invest in Corporate Team Packages, with brand benefits, but opportunities are limited. Interested parties should contact Derek Macaskill for more details.
Individuals wishing to enter can do so by logging onto www.legacytour.co.za and sending their contact details through to the Race Office.
