The big entry of trail runners and mountain bikers entered for the 2015 STIHL Sharks Trail Adventure that takes place this Sunday, 6 December at Summerveld Estate will be able to enjoy several new sections and further improvements to both sets of routes in and around the spectacular Shongweni Valley.
The 18km and 9km trail running events have become firm favourites and the tweaks and additions to the combination of natural pathways and purpose-built trails, bridges and obstacles look set to entrench the events growing following.
Cyclists and trail runners alike are in for a Shongweni Valley viewing treat during their respective efforts at Sunday’s STIHL Sharks Trail Adventure at Summerveld Estate. Anthony Grote/ Gameplan Media.
Both trail run event’s courses share a common opening stretch before participants go their separate ways and enjoy their time in the countryside.
“Both races’ runners will get to experience new views overlooking the entire Shongweni Valley,” said Route Director, Andrew van Rensburg. “If we are lucky enough to have a clear day on Sunday it would be awesome because then runners will also have an amazing view of the ocean down in Durban!”
“The Shongweni and Summerveld area has such incredible trails, especially for running, and we really believe we have been able to link up some of the most amazing natural footpaths and goat tracks in some even greater routes this year.
“The beauty of running is that with you going a little slower than those on bikes is that you can take note of your surroundings a little more and take in the amazing environment that you’re in,” he added.
The day’s wheeled participants are also set for a refreshed trail experience with an improved feel and flow throughout the MTB courses and a safer final few kilometers.
“There are quite a few changes that we have made to the 40km MTB route that have helped improve the feel and flow of the route even more while we have also taken riders out to an amazing viewpoint that overlooks the Shongweni Valley.
“There is now a little sting in the tail with three kilometers to go thanks to a short, steep climb that cuts out two tar road crossings.
“The climb is a little rocky and technical but should be quite manageable for most and it is a dual track section so there will be overtaking opportunities going up.”
An improved 20km Half Marathon route is also set to take riders down into the heart of the Shongweni Valley while a few tough climbs that will tests the legs will be rewarded with incredible views and great stretches of single track throughout.
The 10km outing is an ideal opportunity for all members of the family to enjoy some time in the saddle and unwind as the end of the year rolls round while the hugely popular Sharkie Kids Ride remains one of the highlights of the day as the youngest members of the family look to get in on the action.
“The route for this year’s Sharkie Kids Ride will be about 1,5km and Sharkie will once again lead out all the eager youngsters at the start of their adventure!” confirmed Van Rensburg.
“With the event also only being at 11h00, it is also ideal for parents to get involved and ride or run alongside their children once they finished their longer mountain bike or trail run events earlier in the day.”
The STIHL Sharks Trail Adventure takes place at Summerveld Estate, Shongweni on Sunday, 6 December. Entries can be submitted via www.roag.co.za and more information can be found at www.sharkstrailadventure.co.za.
