Despite one local cyclist going off the trail the team of Fairtree DP World Cannondale had an adventure-filled month at the Cape Pioneer and Bike2Blossoms races.
Ziandro Jordaan and Ethan Michaels travelled from the Karoo to Coast to take part in the seven-day long Cape Pioneer race. This is the first time the team took part in this event and the men did not disappoint.
From the arid desertscapes of the Groot Karoo to the great mountains of the Klein Karoo and the aboriginal forests of the Garden Route, the Cape Pioneer has it all, a truly African mountain biking experience. Biogen sponsors the 430 km race, which included a 9 700 m of climbing.
Riders took off on Thursday 30 September and crossed the finish line on Saturday 4 October. Jordaan and Michaels both did well considering they were also riding for solo positions, often having to ride alone.
Michaels also gave his wheel to Jordaan on the final day, after experiencing numerous punctures, ensuring his teammate could win the overall men’s jersey.
Team manager Chris Norton says incredible teamwork will always ensure success, despite this being an individual sport.
Jordaan took first place in his category and 52nd overall, in a time of 18:52:18. Michaels completed the race in 22:28:04, coming fourth in his category and 22nd overall.
Meanwhile, Luyanda Tobigunya, Kusaselihle Ngidi, Kwazi Mbhamali, and Thembela Lukalo headed to Grabouw for the Bike2Blossoms in the Elgin Valley on 4 October. Tobigunya (2:23:09) was the top cyclist of the team, placing fourth overall.
Mbhamali (2:31:58) ended 14th overall while Lukalo crossed the finish line in a time of 3:22:40.
Ngidi may have lost his way on the trail, but he said he is looking forward to the upcoming Wines2Whales.
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