Picture: Trans Bavians / Facebook
The event is expected to be fast, thanks to a recently graded R332 road and a predicted tailwind over the first 140 kilometres. Valley Electrical Titan Racing and Insect Science lead a strong field, with the potential to break the course record of seven hours, 51 minutes, and six seconds. The race kicks off at 10:00 in Willowmore and concludes at Mentors Country Estate in Jeffreys Bay after 2 850 meters of climbing.
Zane Schmahl, from the Trans Baviaans organisation, anticipates a swift edition due to the improved road conditions, making it possible for competitors to race on gravel bikes. Rossouw Bekker of Valley Electrical Titan Racing, participating for the first time, expressed excitement about the iconic event, despite some uncertainty about bike choice. Bekker and his teammate, Matthys Beukes, have outfitted their gravel bikes with 2.1-inch mountain bike tyres to handle the rugged terrain.
Their main rivals, Arno du Toit and Keagan Bontekoning of Insect Science are also gearing up for the challenge. Du Toit, who narrowly missed a course record in 2018, acknowledged the unique demands of the race, from equipment choices to mental stamina. Despite considering gravel bikes, the duo opted for fast tyres on their Giant Anthems, anticipating that this setup would be the most efficient for the rough sections.
Participants are reminded that the route is unmarked, following an adventure racing ethos. Schmahl emphasized the importance of downloading GPX files and familiarizing themselves with the course, which has been slightly modified this year. The race will start in the centre of Willowmore and finish at Mentors Country Estate.
Water crossings, a significant race feature, have been carefully graded, ranging from minor splashes to sections requiring riders to dismount and push their bikes. Additional measures to prevent Foot-and-Mouth Disease include disinfecting bike wheels at Check Point 7 and cycling through disinfectant baths at farm gates.
Weather conditions look favourable, with cool temperatures and a moderate northwest breeze at the start, warming up to 20°C in the Baviaanskloof. Rain is expected in Jeffreys Bay on Saturday evening, along with a gentle southwest headwind. Temperatures along the coast will remain mild, with a low of 14°C overnight.
Watch Trans Talk coverage in the video below:
For live updates and more information, follow @transbaviaans on Instagram, visit the Trans Baviaans 24HR MTB Race Facebook page, or explore www.transbaviaans.co.za.
