MTN MABALINGWE - XCM #5 driven by NISSAN

Saturday:

Only an hour and a half from Pretoria is the new race in the MTN National MTB Series, Mabalingwe. The race has a great history, with a mere 154 cyclists in 2001, has grown to one of the most prominent and popular Mountain Bike Races in South Africa.

Spread over more than 12 500 ha and malaria free, unspoilt bushveld, Mabalingwe Nature Reserve nestles in the shadow of the majestic Waterberg Mountains.

The Mabalingwe Lion Man MTB race has become a "must-do-event" for all seasoned cyclists but also for families and newcomers to the sport. 2011 saw the 11th consecutive race take place with no less than 2060 cyclists. Because the race has grown so significantly only a limited amount of cyclists can enter. This ensures your safety and more enjoyment for everyone....

Cyclists can look forward to an easier 40 km route or the more challenging 75 km route.

The 40 km route is mostly fast riding with the occasional climb, loose rock and thick sand patches. The 75 km route is more challenging and takes you over the treacherous and technical climb of Vodacom Hill.  Cyclists also get the opportunity to ride past the Lion hide and in the past some have been lucky enough to spot the Mabalingwe lions!

On route, you can expect well stocked water points with a festive atmosphere. These sponsors are not only there to restock your water supply but also to lift your spirits and encourage you to keep on going.

At the Mabalingwe Lion Man MTB Race you can be sure of our best service, attention to detail, and a unique experience, both on and off your bike!

This race will surely go from strength to strength and we look forward to sharing this awesome day with you and your family in years to come! Cyclist or spectator .... make sure that you and your family diarize the dates for the Mabalingwe Lion Man MTB Race well in advance!

Entries:

• Early Bird Fees - Close 31st January 2012!!

• Normal Entry Fees

• Closing date for online entries is 07/05/2011 Midnight (or as soon as 2100 participants have been reached)

Registration:

Cyclelab - Tuesday 08/05 09:00 - 17:00
Cyclelab - Wednesday 09/05 09:00 - 17:00
Mabalingwe - Friday 11/05 14h00 - 19h00
Mabalingwe - Saturday 12/05 05:30 - 07:30

Route Descriptions:

TBA - Maps to be uploaded first week of February.

Specifics:

All marshals will be cleared from the course after 16h00 and all direction markers removed. The cut off at the finish line for the 115km route is 15h45.

Prize Money*:

• Prize money & Points will be calculated for the UCI PRO/Elite Men in this distance only.
• PRO/Elite ladies will earn points & prize money in the usual 75km marathon distance only.
• All other categories will only be eligible for points and prize money in the usual distance.

Approximate riding times:

• 115km:  5h00min – 8 hours
• 75km:   3 – 6 hours
• 40km:  2 – 4 hours
• Cut-off Waterpoint (TBA)
• 115km has a cut-off at the finish of 9hours.

Directions from Pretoria

Shuttle / Transport:

There are no official shuttle services on offer, public transport is available from JHB International airport, and this is the quickest way of getting to the venue. Mabalingwe is situated about 2.5 hours drive from JHB International.

Accommodation:

Accommodation information on all available accommodation can be obtained from Tourist Information Web Site or from Tourist Reservations.

• Accommodation available @ Mabalingwe – 014 736 9000 / info@mabalingwe.co.za

Important Pointers

• As this event is held in the autumn, the cyclist may experience hot or rainy to cool weather and should be prepared to cope with these conditions.
• First Aid Services will be provided to the cyclists on the routes and at the finish.
• The organisers may, at their discretion, shorten, lengthen or change the course if the weather, or safety of the cyclist, deem this necessary.
• Bike wash facilities will be available at the finish area

• Wash only                                     R20
• Wash, Polish and Lube             R40  

Location of Amenities

Teams / Riders / Public Parking Location

Teams have access to the Event Venue, and setup in the teams designated area next to the finish area. Riders will park just adjacent to the race venue next to the venue, and the public at the designated public parking zones, outside the riders parking zone, just off the start finish venue.

Nearest Hospital and Medical Information

A wide range of professional medical services are available, including:

• Ambulance                                                            +27 10177
• Hospital                                                                +27 (0)23 312 1117
• Police                                                                     +27 (0)
• Fire Department                                                   +27 (0)