The uBhejane Xtreme MTB Challenge returns this year with an exciting new route that will take riders through the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
Now in its 7th year, the race continues to be an important fundraiser for rhino conservation and anti-rhino poaching efforts in Northern KwaZulu-Natal.
More than R2 million has been raised so far.
“We have seen the uBhejane Xtreme grow hugely over the years and it’s become a popular choice for riders to make a difference in a small way,” said race organiser Cliff Will.
“We are looking forward to welcoming riders again for the event this year and hopefully we can make another significant contribution to the efforts against rhino poaching.”
In the past the race finished at Hilltop Camp in the Hluhluwe/Mfolozi game reserve, but this year riders will go 40km through the iSimangaliso Wetland Park to the finish in Bonamanzi reserve.
Riders have the option of 5 different rides with the 3 day option starting on Thursday, December 10.
The Long Horn is the flagship ride of the event and is roughly 30 kilometres longer this year, totalling 350km.
It starts in Hillcrest just after midnight and takes riders from the start in the Upper Highway area, through Wyebank onto the M5 and then via Verulam to Salt Rock and then through the cane fields of the North Coast on their way to the finish at Bonamanzi.
Photo: Anthony Grote/Gameplan Media
There is also a 270km Short Horn ride that has over the years become the most popular event of the uBhejane Xtreme and usually sells out the fastest.
The ride starts at the Umvoti Toll Plaza and will also finish at Bonamanzi.
There is also a 130km Baby Horn ride and then a shorter 60km ride that will attract riders who are keen to take part but might not have done the training to take on the longer distances.
Photo: Anthony Grote/Gameplan Media
The uBhejane event is not a race, and there will be a lead rider to maintain the pace in an attempt to get all riders to finish in each of the events.
Those interested in taking part may apply to enter, donations can be submitted and more information can be found via the event’s website, www.ubhejanex.org.
