On the 11th of July 2015 we will be hosting our 5th annual Ngwenya Mountain Bike Challenge, last year we hosted over 250 hardy cyclists, and hope fully this year they will be back to savour the trails of Swazilands highest altitude one day Mountain Bike Challenge.
Swaziland is a mountain bikers dream, with the most amazing scenery and diverse array of possible routes at many different altitudes. Due to our race being at high altitude it is great for high altitude training for other longer events and races. So get training!
We have not been idle throught the year and have found some new single track and Kia track to improve and keep the route fresh! Like both our Facebook pages to keep updated.
https://www.facebook.com/NgwenyaglassMTB?ref=hl
https://www.facebook.com/ngwenyaglass?ref=hl
The Routes
70km Marathon
70 km’s of flowing trails consisting of jeep tracks, forest roads, cattle paths (single track) and unused railway lines, with a balance of undulating hills, steep climbs and wicked down-hills. 21.1km of single track, 37.7km of district road, 4.6km of KIA track and 2.1km of tar. We will be scouting for those single track sections to sweeten the route even more.
With altitude variances from 1350m to 1600m – the route was not for the faint-hearted or weak legged, a couple of cyclists from flatter parts of the country learnt a lesson or two about climbing and pacing themselves. These routes are open to you to come and enjoy throughout the year, give us a shout if you need directions.
40km Classic
40km of enjoyable riding on jeep tracks, cattle paths (single track) and meandering forest roads. Ideal for the seasoned rider. 18.6km of single track, 15.6km of District road, 4.0km of KIA track and 2.1km of tar.
The route traversed the Motshane / Sicgangeni valley, heading into the hills towards Mhlabanyatsi some climbing was required.
27km Family Ride
27km of rideable foot paths, jeep tracks and old railway lines around the Ngwenya Village and Motshane valley. With one or two stiff climbs to keep you focused! 11.8km of Single track, 7.6km of District road, 3.3km of KIA track and 2.1km of tar.
Online entries are open
http://www.cycleevents.co.za/mtb-events/ngwenya-glass-mtb-challenge-2014-2/
Do not hesitate you may be sorry!!
2012 race results can be found at
http://www.spectrumsport.co.za/Portals/17/ResultDoc/NgwenyaGlass_MTB_20120707.pdf
2011 race results can be found at
http://www.spectrumsport.co.za/Portals/29/ResultDoc/Ngwenya_Glass_MTB__20110702.pdf
Funds raised by the race have been used to purchase blankets and water projects for the local community through which we ride.
There are a number of other races during the year that we would recommend. These start with the Imvelo in the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary. Swazi trac – Three Reserves and Inyatsi – Nkonyeni and the Hub Hardware City to City!
