{"id":42925,"date":"2024-10-31T09:30:27","date_gmt":"2024-10-31T07:30:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/eikestadnuus\/mtb-routes-for-the-savanna-origin-of-trails-mtb-experience-revealed-20241031\/"},"modified":"2025-03-20T07:38:17","modified_gmt":"2025-03-20T05:38:17","slug":"mtb-routes-for-the-savanna-origin-of-trails-mtb-experience-revealed-20241031","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/eikestadnuus\/mtb-routes-for-the-savanna-origin-of-trails-mtb-experience-revealed-20241031\/","title":{"rendered":"MTB routes for the Savanna Origin of Trails MTB Experience revealed\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Stillwater Sports, organisers of the Savanna Origin of Trails MTB Experience, have announced a series of exciting route enhancements aimed at showcasing the very best of Stellenbosch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The two-day mountain-biking event will be held in and around the town on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 November, with Coetzenburg Field acting as the race village.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Riders have the option of choosing between the marathon and half-marathon distances. \u201cThe marathon is designed for fitter, more experienced riders who feel confident on technical terrain,\u201d says Michael Meyer, managing director of Stillwater Sports and event founder. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThe route showcases some of Stellenbosch\u2019s best trails. The punchy climbs and rocky single tracks are characteristic of the area. Fitness will definitely enhance the overall experience.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Day 1 of the marathon covers 48 km with a total ascent of 1 400 m. Described as a \u201clucky packet\u201d of mountain biking, it offers a variety of short, punchy climbs, smooth single-track, long climbs and technical terrain. Highlights include the ever-popular trails of Mont Marie, Dornier, Ernie Els and Stellenzicht.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Day 2 of the marathon spans 54 km with 900 m of climbing. It\u2019s flatter and faster than day 1. For the first time the underrated Somerbosch Trails will be featured, with the Faure Drop promising an adrenaline rush.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For those looking for a less intense experience, the half-marathon is perfect for novice stage racers or riders who want to enjoy the event\u2019s atmosphere while experiencing magnificent trails.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Day 1 of the half-marathon features a 26 km route with a total ascent of 650 m, offering a balanced stage with a mix of jeep-track and single-track. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Highlights include the floating bridge at Mont Marie and the iconic G-Spot trail. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This stage caters for riders of all levels, incorporating some technical riding without the more challenging sections of the full marathon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Day 2 of the half-marathon covers 36 km with a 600 m ascent. It\u2019s flatter and smoother than day 1, featuring fun single-track and climbs toward the end, and offering riders their first chance to tackle the Somerbosch Trails.<\/p>\n\n\n\n