31 March 2012

65KM MARATHON:

14km of single track, as well as boardwalks, bush tunnels,
river crossings and as always big climbs are some of the
things to look forward to. The Marathon is 60km of absolute
adrenaline pumping trails and if you get the chance to look
around, the views are breathtaking.

35KM MARATHON:

It’s going to be fast! One killer of a climb and then all the fun starts... Forest single track, bush tunnels, bridges, river crossings and some disc burning descents. After 9km of single track you will feel like the single track king!

12KM FUN RIDE:

This is where you will learn what MTBiking is all about.
Endless single track, board walks & some fun twisty stuff.
You will want to do another lap when you are done.

Sappi makes major commitment to
mountain biking in Mpumalanga

Sappi today confirmed that they are increasing their support for mountain bike racing which uses Sappi land. To this end Sappi have agreed to take up the naming rights of the popular Mankele Mountain Bike Challenge, which will now be called the Sappi Mankele Mountain Bike Challenge. “Sappi’s plantations not only provide a critical renewable resource to help grow South Africa’s economy, but together with our conservation areas our land provides a fantastic resource for planned recreational activities. We therefore support non-motorised activities such as mountain biking and bird watching on Sappi land, also as part of our commitment to promoting a healthy life style and nurturing an appreciation for nature and the sustainable use of renewable resources” says Regional Forestry Manager, Duane Roothman.

The Sappi Mankele MTB Challenge will be taking place on Saturday, 02 April 2011 on Sappi’s land near the Sudwala Caves, about 30km from Nelspruit. The event offers a number of races, which includes a 2.4km, 12km, 35km and a 65km race.

Over the years the organising body, Mankele Mountain Biking, has developed unique trails running through Sappi’s bush tunnels and endless single tracks, which enables riders to have the best possible mountain biking experience. Sappi’s property also boasts one of the longest bush tunnels in the country, which makes for an exhilarating ride.  The route will also take riders through beautiful grasslands where, if lucky, the riders may spot red data species such as the Oribi buck and Humilis cycads. 

Mountain biking is one of the fastest growing sports in South Africa and the Sappi Mankele MTB Challenge is fast becoming a national event with riders from across the country participating. The race has seen a 30% growth rate increase per year since the event first started in 2008, and the Mankele trails are rated amongst the best mountain biking trails in South Africa by many professional riders.

RESULTS

Click here for the 2011 race results

2011 Sappi Mankele TV Broadcast schedule:

Click here for the 2010 race results
Read the 2010 race review by Brett Coates

Route Profiles (click on a profile to enlarge)