Words: Dave Mcleod | Photo: Jetline Action Photo
Durban – After a popular debut last year, the Stihl Sharks Trail Adventure makes a welcome return at the start of the end-of-year holidays when the MTB ride and trail run family day takes place at Shongweni on Sunday 8 December.
The mountain bike trails proved to be accessible and rewarding for the experienced MTB enthusiasts entering the 40km and 18km races, while the 10km family ride and the 2km Sharkie Kids Ride proved to be a hit with the youngsters and less experienced MTB riders.
Last year the event attracted a significant entry from the elite MTB fraternity, eager for a serious outing before the end-of-year break in the MTB calendar. Andrew Hill (TIB Insurance) emerged victorious in a keen tussle that left all the pro racers beaming.
For the trail runners, the day will once again offer a choice of 9km or 18km options, winding through the picturesque Summerveld countryside.
The Sharks players will be there to spend time with their fans, and their larger-than-life mascot Sharkie will also be in demand amongst fans keen to have their photo taken with the friendly icon before he boards his bike for his 2km race with the smaller children.
Based at the Summerveld estate in Shongweni, the day has been designed around families, with a rare Sunday opportunity to visit the Shongweni Farmers Market, while participants are encouraged to bring braais and picnic baskets to enjoy after the racing is completed, with live music and a distinctly Christmas theme to the day.
"It is an opportunity for The Sharks players to spend some time with their fans who are keen MTB racers and trail runners, to thank them for their support during the year," said The Sharks marketing manager Mike Ablett.
"This time of year is all about families, so Sharkie and The Sharks players will find themselves equally in demand," he added.
"The Sharks are really keen to encourage families to adopt a healthy outdoor lifestyle, and there are few more appealing places to do this than the Shongweni area.
"After the success of last year, we are really looking forward to the 2013 edition of this event," he said.
As an added incentive Discovery Vitality members will earn Vitality points for taking part in the various events on the day, and a Silverback Vida 3 29er MTB is also up for grabs in a competition around the event.
Entries can be submitted via www.roag.co.za and more info can be found at www.sharkstrailadventure.co.za
