Why you should enter now for the iconic Karoo To Coast Mountain Bike Challenge!
There’s something inherently magical about a point-to-point race and the Lions Karoo to Coast Mountain Bike Challenge is no exception. This iconic event, scheduled for 22 September 2024, offers riders the chance to traverse a breathtaking 100km journey from Uniondale to Knysna. Along the way, participants pedal through the historic Prince Alfred’s Pass and traverse a diverse range of biomes, from the rugged beauty of the Karoo through lush river valleys to the famous Knysna forest near the coast. But, not before an epic evening of pure Karoo hospitality in Uniondale…
The pre-event festivities as well as the 100km adventure (and the logistical challenge of your support crew meeting you in Knysna) is but one part of why riders (of all fitness levels) return to this event year after year. Read on for a handful of others.
You don’t have to be an industry insider with eyes on all the latest purchasing numbers and projected marketing trends to know that the E-Bike and Gravel categories are the two biggest growth segments in cycling. It’s just exploded in the past few years and this race embraces that (the route is absolutely ideal for both categories and each now has its own start time and podium). In fact, so much has it grown, that E-Bike entries tripled in 2023! In line with that, the event has added a few special features for E-Bike riders, most notably a free battery swap service. Riders can expect a battery change after 59 kilometres at Buffelsnek, ensuring they stay powered through the race. Of course, certain terms and conditions apply to E-Bikes (such as a separate maximum continuous rated power of 250W for the auxiliary electric motor), more info is on the website. Will these ‘rules’ detract from the chilled vibe of the event?
Also adding to the credibility and bragging rights (for the racing snakes) is the fact that for the first time in nearly a decade, the Lions Karoo To Coast will be a Cycling South Africa-sanctioned event. This development opens the race to licensed riders and allows local development riders to compete against the best in the country.
A spokesperson for Cycling South Africa shared their excitement, saying, “Karoo to Coast has long been a favourite among recreational cyclists. Previously, due to regulations requiring elite and licensed riders to only participate in sanctioned events authorised by Cycling South Africa, these riders were unable to join the race. Now, with Karoo to Coast being sanctioned, all riders can participate, including the full elite field, which will likely elevate the event’s status,” they said, adding that, in addition, the presence of elite riders will also attract more media attention. “At Cycling South Africa, we believe the Lions Karoo To Coast has the potential to become a UCI-classified event, especially as the UCI Marathon series gains momentum. We are extremely pleased that the K2C is now a sanctioned event and look forward to a successful day.”
You might very well not be gunning for a podium or points but that doesn’t mean that the race only rolls out the red carpet for the licenced riders. This year they’re rolling out the ‘blue’ carpet for all entrants:
As the official retail partner, Cycle Lab is offering riders some fantastic deals. Once you’ve entered, you’ll receive a R150 Cycle Lab voucher, free tyre sealant top-ups, and 50% off minor service labor, ensuring your bike is in top shape for the race. Riders will receive a link via SMS to redeem vouchers at the end of July, with entries made after this receiving the link once entries have closed. Visit their megastores in Fourways, Johannesburg, Cornubia, Durban, Boksburg, Pretoria, and Cape Town, or check them out online.
“The race isn’t about any of those locations, but it attracts riders from all over the country to the beautiful Garden Route and Karoo hinterland. The partnership with George, Wilderness, and Uniondale Tourism underscore the event’s importance for the region.” Joan Shaw, the manager of George Tourism, expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “George Tourism is thrilled to once again be an official partner of the Lions Karoo to Coast Mountain Bike Challenge. The cancellation of the event in 2023 due to weather conditions was a great loss for Uniondale, and we would like to assist in getting the race back to its pre-COVID numbers to benefit participants and residents of Uniondale.”
Aside from boosting tourism by showcasing the region’s potential and drawing visitors from far and wide, the race is fundamentally about supporting a great cause. The event is owned by the Lions of Uniondale and Knysna, with all proceeds going to people in need in the area. Additionally, the Karoo To Coast water points and marshal points are managed by other Non-Profit Organizations, including Knysna Rotary, Eden and Sedgefield Lions, and the Knysna Education Trust and Animal Welfare, all of which receive donations from the event. By entering the race, you’re contributing to the well-being of the community.