Greytown MTB report
An early start, after what could only be a mountain bikers’ night of shenanigans, big talk and complaints over poor refereeing at the Sharks/Bulls Final, lead us to the windy and cold start line of the 45km Greytown Classic.
The count-down had my adrenalin pumping accordingly and I immediately worked myself behind Tania Raatz and dragged on her tail for the first 10km of dusty roads and very sandy single track until breathing in dust for half an hour forced me to back off and carry on at my own pace (a tad embarrassing for a young, strapping 16 year-old male!). The wind proved to be a problem in trying to keep my line on the single track, yet with a bit of pace, was manageable. With many roads leading in different directions, the well-marked paths kept me moving in the right direction, while signs such as “autobahn” and “water-table” pointed out what was coming up ahead. The dirt roads made sure of easy flowing positions and created space between the riders, but they also allowed some fast paced downhills and easy climbs. The 25km and the 45km route split came upon us and I soon after realized why that position was chosen for the split!
The rest of the forty-fivers and I were forced to throw our bikes over our shoulders and trek to the top of a monstrous hill. The “Haaibo!” sign marked the end of the trek and that was exactly what my calves were saying at that moment. Enough is enough of hiking the bike!
The climb was definitely rewarded with some awesome scenery on the mountain-top and a slightly technical single-track through a small forest and down another dirt road which gave a wonderful break to my cramping legs. After another long gradual climb, I found myself above another beautiful valley, except this time about 1m away from landing myself at the bottom of the valley! The “race briefer” had warned us about this ride along the cliff edge and it was quite tricky in the howling wind. Luckily, the cliff edge was guarded by a fence which became a life saver when the wind gusted me off the single track. This section of single track proved to be one of the best parts of the ride and of the best I’ve ever ridden. It is the adrenalin that we mountain bikers love – isn’t it?!
I gradually zigzagged down into switchbacks that gave me a good to perfect challenge. It then carried on along a contour that had wonderfully crafted wooden bridges that spanned the gaps across the streams running down the mountain. It ended with a sharp rocky descent that was closely watched by keen local spectators who had great joy in giving me hi-fives at the bottom.
The rest of the race went through some jeep tracks and single track through the pine forests and finally on a fast and furious dash to the finish along a dirt road.
Overall the race was incredibly well balanced with a bit of everything to enjoy. I did find, however, that the first leg of the race had some disappointing single-track, yet made up for it along the cliff-edge! The course was well marshalled and sufficient supplies were available at the water tables and the finish line.
The organization and hospitality at the event was impeccable, even in the challenging dusty wind. This was very evident from white teeth shining through dust-blackened faces by satisfied riders having completed the various events. The week-end festival was enjoyed by all and I will certainly do it again next year!
Rowan McKenzie
Kearsney College
