Organisers of the FNB Wines2Whales have given riders the assurance that the event will take place from 20-29 October despite the flooding and wind damage caused by recent storms.
“The Chardonnay, Pinotage and Shiraz Switchback races are going ahead as scheduled. Our route and logistics teams are currently assessing the damage to the trails and will be working hard to ensure that the event delivers a riding experience worthy of our #SeriousGees tagline,” Hendrico Burger, Race Director of FNB Wines2Whales (W2W) said.
“We would however also like to take this opportunity to point out that landowners and communities, particularly in the Botrivier region, have suffered significant losses during the floods. Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time and we know that they will be able to count upon the solidarity of the FNB W2W community in the coming months. Be it by the purchase of a bottle or two of wine, or via direct donations to community projects.”
According to Burger there is a change in the route that will give the riders an experience they will never forget.
Stage 1 has mellowed somewhat, with three of the 2021 route climbs being changed to offer more scenic and easier climbs. The Hemel-en Aarde Gorge climb, the Van der Stel Pass link, and the Paul Cluver trail climb give way to the engaging La Vierge steps, a new enjoyable contour path linking to Kat Pass and the memorable Rondomtalie switchback which adds interest and a whole lot of fun.
“Based on rider feedback, we have replaced the three significant climbs on Stage 3; Grabouw Country Club to Gantouw Pass, Journey’s End to Vergelegen, and the Lourensford killer climb towards the finish. From Grabouw Country Club to Gantouw Pass, we have replaced a long section of the climb with a shorter and more mellow climb to allow a gentle warm up to the day. The route from Journey’s End to Vergelegen is the stage’s most dramatic improvement to maximise enjoyment.”
With permission from the landowners of Idiom, Wedderwill and Vergelegen Nature Reserves to cycle via their properties, the organisers have eliminated the infamous Journey’s End Climb and route, resulting in a magic new route that is more scenic and offers the possibility of game viewing. .Food Lover’s Market is a proud sponsor and participant of the FNB Wines to Whales bike race.
