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MTN SABIE - XCM #3 driven by NISSAN

MTN SABIE - XCM #3 driven by NISSAN

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Date: 25 / 26 February 2012
Venue: York timbers, Sabie, Mpu S25 06' 00.47" E30 45' 20.91"
Terrain: Plantations | Humid | Savanna
Elevation: 1015m  |  Ascent: 113km - 3150m / 75km - 2100m / 40km - 1050m
Participants: 3000+
Features: Forests | Heritage Site
Registration times: Fri 24/02 17:00-21:00 & Sat 25/02 05h30 - 16h00 & Sun 26/02 05h30 - 07h15
Entries:  ONLINE ENTRIES are now closed. Lare entries will be available on registration days

Event Summery:

For 12 years the Sabie Classic has become the benchmark Enduro Mountain Bike race by which all others are judged. Over 3000 riders will descend upon the small Lowveld town to experience South Africa’s “Mecca” of mountain biking over the two days. All of the country’s top riders who appeared for the race as SA Champs last year, will be lured by the large winning purse, the UCI points as well as the legendary challenge that Sabie possesses.

MTN, NISSAN and the organizers are ensuring that not only will the riders experience the best Mountain Biking in Africa, but their families will enjoy the whole weekend with a dedicated kids area with face painting and games as well as a race restaurant for all to fill up on. A 2km race for really small kids will guarantee that all ages are catered for... This year there are more reasons than ever for anyone who has a yearning to experience the thrill, fun and camaraderie that Sabie has always offered, bring the whole family for a weekend away and escape into the forests to experience the breathtaking scenery and mind blowing trails that is the Sabie Classic, it’s what your Mountain Bike was made for...

The Friday night registration will, as always, provide lots of entertainment for the whole family with food, music, product stalls, Xtreme Sports shop, product displays and lots to sample.

Included in the entry fee, is access for the rider and supporters that can enter the York Timbers Sports grounds free of charge. Secure parking for teams is available on the Venue. The public will park outside the designated areas.

RACE PROGRAMME - CLICK HERE
Saturday:

05h30-16h00: Registration & Line Entries
25/02 06h15: Riders Briefing /  Leaders Jersey Handover
25/02 06h45: Start MTN ULTRA UCI PRO/Elite 113km Race
25/02 07h00: Start MTN ULTRA Amateur Men + Ladies Marathon
25/02 07h30: Start MTN Marathon 75km "A". Batches at +5min intervals
25/02 11h00: Winner of Marathon 75km Expected
25/02 11h45: Winner of UCI PRO/Elite Men expected
25/02 13h00: Prize Giving

Sunday:

05h30-07h15: Registration & Line Entries
26/02 07h15: Riders Briefing /  Leaders Jersey Handover
26/02 07h30: Start Half-Marathon 40km "A". Batches at +5min intervals
26/02 08h20: Start Fun Race 15km
26/02 09h20: Winner Fun Race
26/02 09h45: Winner Half-Marathon
26/02 12h00: Prize Giving
 

 

ENTRY FEES & CLOSING DATES - CLICK HERE

Entries:

  • Closing date for online entries is 22/02/2012 Midnight
  • Closing date for Early Bird entries is 01/02/2012 Midnight

Entry Fees:

  Early Bird Normal fees Late fees
Ultra Marathon R200 R250 R250
Marathon R170 R200 R200
Half Marathon R140 R170 R170
20km Fun Race R70 R80 R80

RACE INFORMATION - CLICK HERE


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:

  • 113km:  5h00min – 8 hours
  • 75km:   3 – 6 hours
  • 40km:  2 – 4 hours
  • Cut-off Waterpoint 5 – 74km 11:00am
  • 113km has a cut-off at the finish of 8hours.

 Cut-off times:

All marshals will be cleared from the course after 16h00 and all direction markers removed. The cut off at the finish line for the 113km route is 16h00.

NB! Cut-off time for back markers at the 74km mark where it splits away to follow the 40km route is 14h00 (5 hours 30 minutes) Their race numbers will be cut and riders may then return to the finish 1km away.

Refreshment Stations: 

  1. At 14,8km at the base of Mamba Switchback.
  2. At Stables hut at 27km. Tech Zone 1.
  3. On the Bell Road at 43.5km after "Rocky Horror" descent. Tech Zone 2.
  4. At the Nursury at 58km. Tech Zone 3.
  5. At 74km at the Amrathon split near start/finish. Tech Zone 4.
  6. At 81km, on 40km loop.
  7. At approximately 94km just before the top of the last climb, before a screaming downhill home

Important Pointers

  • As this event is held in the summer, the cyclist may experience hot or rainy to cool weather and should be prepared to cope with these conditions.
  • The (113km) Ultra Marathon will have a total of 7 water points along the route.
  • 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.
  • A Pasta evening is included for all participants, additional tickets are available at a extra fee for all non-participants.
  • Bike wash facilities will be available at the finish area

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 on the cricket field and at the Bambani hall (registration venue).

*Tech Zones:

There will be 4 official Tech Zones on route. Tech Zone #1 will be a neautral Tech Zone at 29km after the KOM Hotspot and will assist all Ultra Marathon and Marathon riders. Tech Zones 2, 3, and 4 are for Pro Elite Ultra riders and Elite Woman only.

Riders can buy a Tech Zone coupons for R10 per coupon at registration. A Tech Zone coupon will allow you to send a pre-mixed bottle to the Neutral Tech Zone #1.
Bottles must be handed in at the Epic Sports gazebo at the start line 30mins before the start of the Ultra Marathon. Please ensure that your bottle is labled for easy identification.
Bottles will only be accepted if you have purchased a Tech Zone coupon.
The neutral Tech Zone #1 will also provide technical assistance and basic spares for all Ultra and Marathon riders on route.

*Strict UCI rules and regulations regarding outside technical assistance and feeding apply. This info can be found in the Pro Elite Tech Doc distributed to team managers. 

Bike Wash Bay:

Take advantage of the great service from Powasol, the official Bike Wash partner to the MTN National MTB Series.
  • Wash only                                     R30
  • Wash, Polish and Lube             R50  
Pre book your Bike wash at http://www.powasol.co.za/ and save R10.

Nearest Hospital and Medical Information

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

  • Ambulance           1 0177
  • Sabie Hospital  (013) 764-1222
  • Cave Rescue  (083) 334-3439 or  (083) 392-4395
  • Dr. Mhlongo          (013) 764-2134
  • Dr. Smith  (013) 764-2301

MTN ULTRA MARATHON ROUTE DESCRIPTION & MAP - CLICK HERE

Ultra Marathon

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The National ULTRA Marathon #3 – Sabie is a circular loop race; it will starts at the York Timbers Sports Grounds in Sabie, Mpumalanga and finishes at the same venue. This legendary route zigzags up to the hartebeest “vlakte” plateau, where 3000 participants will pass, over the weekends racing. The race has been in existence for 4 years and has grown tremendously the riding is absolutely unique and spectacular.

  • Total Distance: 113km (GPS)
  • Total Ascent: 3150m (GPS)
  • Forest Road: 69.7km
  • Jeep Track: 33.2km
  • Single Track: 10,1km

 

The 2012 route basically follows the sections of the one which the riders found both enjoyable, yet challenging in 2011. The Mamba Switchback (360m in 3,5km) remains as the main climb, with an added 100m ascent towards the Queen of the Mountain, which now occurs at 25km into the race. The tough 6km Sawmill Climb section has been removed, and also the 5km loop in Tweefontein, which played havoc with riders’ minds last year. For safety reasons some minor changes have been made recently leading up to the race due to some roads being completely flooded or crossings washed away. It is an exciting route with a lot of variable in terrain, surfaces and some stunning views of the valley below and waterfalls from the top of the mountain if you take time out to stop, take in the surroundings and perhaps a photo or two. The second loop of 40km encompasses the Half Marathon section through Ceylon Forestry areas, and does not quite take the riders back up to top of the mountain, but nevertheless after 75km they will still feel the intensity of the short climbs.
The technicality of the route is not quite as tough as the first loop. For the “Pros” the route will present itself with sections to test technical skills, while the steep and extended climbs, and fast, sketchy down hills will test skills and courage to the limit.
 
Refreshment Stations:
Seven, spaced at strategic points, with great views, approximately 15km apart. Ensure that you carry at least 1,5 litres of water or energy drink with you, either in a hydration pack or bottles.
  1. At 15,8km just below the single track above Maritzbos Hiking Hut.
  2. At 29km at Stable Hiking Trail Hut. This is also a netral Tech Zone.
  3. At 48km, after the long downhill section and contour road to the four way intersection in the Mac Mac area. This is also a Team Tech Zone.
  4. At 62km, after the Iveron Trail and series of single tracks near the old Sawmill.
  5. At 75km where the riders pass through the Start/Finish area before doing the final 40km loop. This is also a Team Tech Zone.
  6. At 87km on the alternative route around Jantjiesbos,
  7. At 101km at the top of the last major climb, before dropping down the Loerie trail into the Ceylon Valley.
This route takes riders quickly up to the Queen of the Mountain at 1830m at 25km, and after a few single tracks at high altitude it climbs again to 18h50m before it rapidly drops off the Eastern aspect of the mountain. Once again we are privileged to ride amongst the wild animals (a leopard was seen at the Eland Trail only two weeks ago) and some stunning views of waterfalls and the valley way below. Enjoy the privilege of riding in true mountain bike terrain.
 
The route is aimed at providing fit, competent and professional riders an opportunity to compete over mountainous terrain, with some technical road descents and extended sections of forest single track to test their skills.
 
Fit and skilled recreational riders will find the climbs and some of the rocky, rutted and sometimes slippery surfaces challenging. Where the surfaces and descents are dangerous it is recommended that riders be cautious.
 
There a number of short stream crossings which have suddenly gotten slightly deeper due to the recent floods. It is difficult to estimate the depth while riding and submerged rocks make riding through difficult. If you are unsure, dismount and un/carry your bike through.
 
Wet weather conditions before, or on the day of the race, together with vehicle usage of the roads prior to the race will dictate the levels of mud and slipperiness. Ride within your limits and prevailing conditions. Smooth, red clay surfaces with a green algae tinge very quickly become slick with only a few millimeters of rain.
 
Single tracks in the valley are sometimes slippery and inundated with water after downpours. And some have flood damaged surfaces.
 
Although the organizers endeavour to remove dangerous rocks and cut as much of the long grass and overhanging bushes, trees, thorns and vegetation as possible before the event, weather conditions sometimes result in certain unforeseen obstacles on the route. It is the rider’s responsibility to avoid these hazards by riding more carefully where required.
 
Cyclists who have entered the 40km Race must follow the WHITE with BLACK ARROW MARKERS! If you follow any other MARKERS you will find yourself off 113km UCI Marathon and deviate from your route.
Entrants observed deviating from the official route in any way will receive a DISQUALIFICATION (DQ) result! If you have deviated from the route in anyway please inform an official at the Finish Line, which will result in a less embarrassing DID NOT FINISH (DNF) result.

 

Great News! The last part of the ultra is different from the last part of the marathon and therefore Elite riders will not have to fight their way through back markers riding the marathon. 

MTN MARATHON ROUTE DESCRIPTION & MAP - CLICK HERE

Marathon

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The 2012 route basically follows the sections of the one which the riders found both enjoyable, yet challenging in 2011. The Mamba Switchback (360m in 3,5km) remains as the main climb, with an added 100m ascent towards the Queen of the Mountain, which now occurs at 25km into the race. The tough 6km Sawmill Climb section has been removed, and also the 5km loop in Tweefontein, which played havoc with riders’ minds last year. For safety reasons some minor changes have been made recently leading up to the race due to some roads being completely flooded or crossings washed away. It is an exciting route with a lot of variable in terrain, surfaces and some stunning views of the valley below and waterfalls from the top of the mountain if you take time out to stop, take in the surroundings and perhaps a photo or two. For the “Pros” the route will present itself with sections to test technical skills, while the steep and extended climbs, and fast, sketchy down hills will test skills and courage to the limit. The recreational riders will find these areas extremely challenging, an may be limited to pushing their bikes for short distances.
 
Quick Releases:
Total Distance: 74,8km (GPS)
Total Ascent: 2100m (GPS)
Forest Road: 47km
Jeep Track: 20.2km
Single Track: 7,6km
 
Refreshment Stations:
Four, spaced at strategic points, with great views, approximately 15km apart.
Ensure that you carry at least 1,5 litres of water or energy drink with you,
either in a hydration pack or bottles.
  1. At 15,8km just below the single track above Maritzbos Hiking Hut.
  2. At 29km at Stable Hiking Trail Hut. This is also a neutral Tech Zone.
  3. At 48km, after the long downhill section and contour road to the four way intersection in the Mac Mac area. This is also a Team Tech Zone.
  4. At 62km, after the Iveron Trail and series of single tracks near the old Sawmill.
This route takes riders quickly up to the Queen of the Mountain at 1830m at 25km, and after a few single tracks at high altitude it climbs again to 18h50m before it rapidly drops off the Eastern aspect of the mountain. Once again we are privileged to ride amongst the wild animals (a leopard was seen at the Eland Trail only two weeks ago) and some stunning views of waterfalls and the valley way below. Enjoy the privilege of riding in true mountain bike terrain.
 
The route is aimed at providing fit, competent and professional riders an opportunity to compete over mountainous terrain, with some technical road descents and extended sections of forest single track to test their skills.
 
Fit and skilled recreational riders will find the climbs and some of the rocky, rutted and sometimes slippery surfaces challenging. Where the surfaces and descents are dangerous it is recommended that riders be cautious.
 
Unfit riders who have not trained or spent too much time on the tar will suffer even if you pace yourself, and cramps will be the order of the day! If you are still up to the challenge, pace yourself from the start, walk up the steep climbs and use the down hills to recover and then finish within the designated cut-off time.
 
There a number of short stream crossings which have suddenly gotten slightly deeper due to the recent floods. It is difficult to estimate the depth while riding and submerged rocks make riding through difficult. If you are unsure, dismount and run/carry your bike through.
 
Wet weather conditions before, or on the day of the race, together with vehicle usage of the roads prior to the race will dictate the levels of mud and slipperiness. Ride within your limits and prevailing conditions. Smooth, red clay surfaces with a green algae tinge very quickly become slick with only a few millimeters of rain.
 
Although the organizers endeavour to remove dangerous rocks and cut as much of the long grass and overhanging bushes, trees, thorns and vegetation
 
as possible before the event, weather conditions sometimes result in certain unforeseen obstacles on the route. It is the rider’s responsibility to avoid these hazards by riding carefully where required.
 
Cyclists who have entered the 40km Race must follow the MTN YELLOW/BLACK MARKERS! If you follow any other MARKERS you will find yourself on the 113km UCI Marathon and deviate from your route.
Entrants observed deviating from the official route in any way will receive a DISQUALIFICATION (DQ) result! If you have deviated from the route in anyway please inform an official at the Finish Line, which will result in a less embarrassing DID NOT FINISH (DNF) result.

NISSAN 1/2 MARATHON ROUTE DESCRIPTION & MAP - CLICK HERE

Half Marathon

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Note: The 2012 route basically follows the same one which the riders found both enjoyable, yet challenging in 2011 with exception to the Jantjiesbos route. For safety reasons some minor changes have been made recently leading up to the race due to roads being completely flooded or washed away. It is an exciting route with some stunning views if you take time out to stop, take in the surroundings and perhaps a photo or two. For the “Race Snakes” the route will present itself with enough challenging sections to test technical skills, while the substantial climbs, and fast, sketchy down hills will test both fitness and courage.

Quick Releases:
Total Distance: 40 km (GPS)
Total Ascent: 1050m (GPS)
 
Forest Road: 24km
Jeep Track: 13,2km
Single Track: 2800m
 
Refreshment Stations:
Two, spaced at strategic points, with great views, approximately 15km apart.
Ensure that you carry at least 1,5 litres of water or energy drink with you, either in a hydration pack or bottles.
 
1. At 11,8km just at the top of the climb alongside Jantjiesbos Indigenous Forest.
2. At 27km at the top of the last climb before the fast downhill and single track sections down into Ceylon Valley.
 
This route has some stunning views of waterfalls and the valley below. Enjoy the privilege of riding in true mountain bike terrain.
 
The route is aimed at providing fit, intermediate and competent riders an opportunity to compete over mountainous terrain, with some relatively technical road descents and a short section of forest single track to test their skills.
 
Relatively fit intermediate skilled recreational riders will find the climbs and some of the rocky, rutted and sometimes slippery surfaces challenging. Where the surfaces and descents are dangerous it is recommended that riders be cautious – rather reach the finish to earn your medal a little later on the bike than to hospital in an ambulance!
 
Unfit riders who have not trained or spent too much time on the tar will suffer! If you are still up to the challenge, pace yourself from the start, walk up the steep climbs and use the downhills to recover and then finish.
 
Wet weather conditions before, or on the day of the race, together with vehicle usage of the roads prior to the race will dictate the levels of mud and slipperiness. Ride within your limits and prevailing conditions. Smooth, red clay surfaces with a green algae tinge very quickly become slick with a only few millimeters of rain.
 
Although the organizers endeavour to remove dangerous rocks and cut as much of the long grass and overhanging bushes, trees, thorns and vegetation as possible before the event, weather conditions sometimes result in certain unforeseen obstacles on the route. It is the rider’s responsibility to avoid these hazards by riding carefully where required.
 
PLEASE NOTE!
IF YOU ARE A “RACE SNAKE” IN THE 40KM RACE PLEASE BE AWARE OF THE POSSIBILITY THAT YOU MAY APPROACH YOUNG CHILDREN AND OTHER SLOW, INEXPERIENCED FUNRIDERS FOR APPROX. 3KM IN THE LAST 6KM OF THE RACE. PLEASE GIVE THEM AMPLE WARNING BY CLEARLY CALLING FOR “TRACK” BEFORE ASSING IN A SAFE MANNER ON THE RIGHT WHEN SPACE ALLOWS. DO NOT INTIMIDATE OR SWEAR AT THEM. REMEMBER THAT AN UNPREDICTED MOVE ON THEIR PART MAY RESULT IN A COLLISION WITH INJURIES AND A “DNF” FOR BOTH OF YOU.
 
Cyclists who have entered the 40km Race must follow the WHITE/RED ARROW and NISSAN ROUTE MARKERS! If you follow the BLUE MARKERS you will find yourself on the 15km FUNRIDE and deviate from your route. Entrants observed deviating from the official route in any way will receive a DISQUALIFICATION (DQ) result! If you have deviated from the route in anyway please inform an official at the Finish Line, which will result in a less embarrassing DID NOT FINISH (DNF) result.

15KM FUN RIDE ROUTE DESCRIPTION & MAP - CLICK HERE

Note: Depending on weather conditions leading up to the ride, or weather on the day the road and trail surfaces can be slippery and unpredictable. Sabie roads tend to have some rough rocky sections which will make the ride more challenging, especially for young children younger than 11 years of age and inexperienced beginners. It is not recommended for children under 8 years, and children younger than 10 should be accompanied by an adult. The route is not particularly steep, but short hills do require a reasonable level of fitness if you want to ride them.
 
Quick Releases:
Total Distance: 14,9 km (GPS)
Total Ascent: 125m (GPS)
 
Forest Road: 6 km
Jeep Track: 7,5km
Single Track: 950m
 
Refreshment Stations:
1. At 7.0km at the Ceylon Forestry Village.
 
The route is aimed at providing beginners, inexperienced adult riders with a first off-road cycling experience, and children and youth riders a challenging, but short route over undulating terrain with some slippery and rough sections..
 
Most of the challenging and technical sections will be encountered in the first 8km.
 
Relatively fit, intermediate recreational riders will find the climbs and some of the rocky, rutted and sometimes slippery surfaces relatively easy to ride, but with some concentration required. Where surfaces and descents are slippery it is recommended that they also show some caution.
Directions from johannesburg - CLICK HERE
  • Take the road sign posted BOKSBURG. This will put you onto the N12.
  • At WITBANK the N12 and N4 join and continue as the N4 to MACHADODORP. 
  • Pass through the Toll Gate and take the R36 SCHOEMANSKLOOF ROAD, and do not turn off this road until after about 50kms when you will re-join the N4. This “alternative” route is a road with beautiful views and is preferable to staying on the N4. 
  • After a short distance turn left onto the R539 sign posted SUDWALA CAVES. 
  • Again, after a short distance (approx. 8kms.) turn right (still on the R539) sign posted SABIE. 
  • Continue to the T junction then turn left onto the R37 and continue for approximately 30kms. 
  • At the T junction turn right to SABIE (about 9 km’s). In SABIE at the T junction turn left into Main Street (R532) towards GRASKOP.
  • At Old Lydenburg rd, turn left and continue on for 3km, venue will be on your right hand side. 

Online: http://maps.google.co.za/maps?JohannesburgtoSabie

ACCOMMODATION & SHUTTLE SERVICES - CLICK HERE

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. Sabie is situated about 3hours drive from Johannesburg International.

Accommodation:

Accommodation information on all available accommodation can be obtained from Tourist Information Web Site or from Tourist Reservations, Information & Packaged Tours Service Tel:  (013) 764-1177 Fax: (013) 764-3399 E-mail: info@sabie.co.za

Merry Pebbles
Tel: +27 13 764 2266 Alt: +27 13 764 1502 Cell: +27 792068567
Fax: +27 13 764 1629 Alt:  +27 13 764 1145

E-mail: info@merrypebbles.co.za

Website: www.merrypebbles.co.za

GPS Co-ordinates: S 25º 5’ 44.4" E 30º 45’ 58.7"

A WORD FROM OUR SPONSORS:

At STIHL, we are committed to events that appeal to outdoor enthusiasts because we believe in supporting activities that are part of our customers’ lifestyle.

With our co-sponsorship of the MTN Sabie Classic, we continue a long tradition of endorsing rugged outdoor sports events targeting not only professional sportsmen and women but the whole family. Past sponsorships have included the Non-stop Dusi Canoe Marathon and several mountain biking and outdoor events in and around South Africa

Established 85 years ago, STIHL manufactures a wide range of robust, high-quality outdoor power tools including chainsaws, brush cutters, hedge trimmers, blowers, pole pruners and various cleaning solutions. Several products are available in either petrol or electric models, and a cordless range of powerful battery-operated outdoor power tools has also been launched. A countrywide network of servicing dealers ensures comprehensive backup and technical support.

We provide high-performance, long-lasting products that give great results – also in the forests of Mpumalanga. The synergy between STIHL and an event like the MTN Sabie Classic is clear.

www.stihl.co.za

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