THURSDAY MAR 28 / 2024 / by Andrew Talati

Ciovita
Wine2Whales_helping-another-rider-up-steep-climb

Wine2Whales event and what keeps people coming back

Wines2Whales 2024,  South Africa's Premier 3 Stage Mountain Biking Event Returns with exciting additions.

Dates: November 1-10, 2024
Location: Western Cape, South Africa
Duration: 3 days
Distance: 200 km
Climbing: 4500 m
Route: Lourensford Wine Estate to Hermanus via Oak Valley Estate
Packages: Ride only with lunch, ride and 8 meals, ride, meals plus accommodation ranging from a standard to luxury tent packages.
Entry Categories: Elite racing, Amateurs, Masters (40 - 60+) and E-Bike Tou
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Overview of 3 stages

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Stage 1:  Chardonnay Event  (Nov 1-3): Lourensford Wine Estate Oak Valley

Celebrates women's mountain biking, also open to men and mixed teams

Highlights: Thrilling and challenging sections, stunning views, new trails, Gantouw Pass portage, Toyota Cruise sections

Trail Preparation: Efforts are underway to repair trails damaged by 2023 floods with new features added for an enhanced experience

Distance: 56kms with 1300m of climbing

In 2024, the Wines2Whales race embarks on the original journey from Lourensford Wine Estate to Hermanus via Oak Valley Estate. Promising a mix of exhilarating and challenging sections with stunning Overberg views, fresh trails, restored classics and supported by efforts to repair flood-damaged trails by the Cape Trails team. This ensures that it will be an exciting race experience with numerous berms, bridges, a historic Gantouw Pass portage, singletracks, and Toyota Cruise sections.

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Stage 2: Pinotage Event (Nov 4-6): Oak Valley Estate to Oak Valley Estate

Known for its relaxed atmosphere and highest number of first-time participants; includes E-bike race and tour.

Highlights: Promises to be an exhilarating adventure through fynbos, forests, and fields, with each ascent rewarded by thrilling descents along twisting trails.

Distance: 55km with 1250m of climbing


Stage 3: Shiraz Event (Nov 8-10) Oak Valley Estate to Lourensford Wine Estate

Focuses on men's, open to mixed and Exxaro teams; celebrates participants across various age categories.

Highlights: Spectacular scenery, challenging trails, new features, and #SeriousGEES, accessibility and inclusivity of E-bike categories, enabling a diverse range of riders to enjoy stage racing.

Distance: 64km with 1250m of climbing

An exhilarating journey, starting with a farm road loop behind the Elgin Railway Market and leading to the Eikenhof Dam's northern shores, where an abundance of singletracks awaits. Riders will navigate Grabouw Country Club's renowned A-Z trails before descending the historic Gantouw Pass which has stunning views of False Bay. Trails of Idiom, Knorhoek, and Wedderville lead to Vergelegen farm, featuring a mix of virgin trails and revamped singletracks, concluding with the brand new 8km Channel Trail section at Lourensford Wine Estate, a fast and exciting singletrack experience along a downward running water channel that culminates in a crossing of the 40m Fair Cape floating bridge.

Photo by Greg Beadle

Event Activities

#SeriousGEES inititatives
Our #SeriousGEES initiatives builds excitement, camaraderie, and memorable experiences on and off the trails. This year #SeriousGEES include:

Chill Zone
Popular hangout spot for sharing stories and celebrating achievements

Squirt Bike Wash
Convenient bike cleaning service to keep participants' bikes in top condition

 

Ciovita - Official Cycling Partner

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An international cycling kit company headquartered in Cape Town, South Africa, crafting beautiful, innovative cycling apparel inspired by classic European style.

Ciovita's name reflects its philosophy of "Life in Motion" which is driven by a passion for technology and a commitment to constant improvement. 

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Wines2Whales Collaboration: Ciovita partners with Wines2Whales to provide participants with top-quality cycling apparel for the event, ensuring comfort and performance on the trails.


A back ground on how it started

The FNB Wines2Whales (W2W), formerly part of the Grandstand Management stable that organises the Cape Epic, has undergone rebranding, with the races renamed after wines in the area. The event spans three days, starting at Lourensford wine estate in Somerset West and ending in Hermanus, offering riders a journey through breathtaking landscapes, including Sir Lowry’s Pass, Elgin, Houw Hoek, and the Hemel & Aarde valley.

The rebranding of the three events within the FNB W2W stable has positively impacted the elite women’s race, providing them with dedicated attention and media coverage. This focus on the women's race showcases the competitiveness and camaraderie among female riders, with close finishes highlighting the intensity of the competition.

DirtyheartMTB's experience of riding the Chardonnay event, the first stage of the W2W, revealed the challenging yet rewarding nature of the race. With meticulously crafted trails and diverse terrain, each day offers a unique and exhilarating riding experience, from challenging climbs to fast and flowing descents.

The organisation of the event is exemplary, ensuring that every rider is well taken care of and that their race experience is of the highest quality. Despite logistical challenges, such as protests in Hermanus. The organisers adapt swiftly to ensure a seamless race experience for all participants


Exploring a rich history

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W2W riders become part of history as they traverse iconic landmarks such as the Gantouw Pass portage and the historical Houwhoek Inn. The route also passes through renowned wine estates, offering riders a taste of the region's finest wines and scenic beauty.

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Hermanus tidal marine-pool Photo by Nick Muzik

The picturesque coastal town of Hermanus, known for its whale watching opportunities, serves as the perfect backdrop for the conclusion of the W2W. Riders are treated to sightings of whales frolicking offshore, adding a magical touch to their post-race celebration.

Wine2Whales_Food_market_Greg_BeadlePhoto by Greg Beadle

The race village at W2W provides a welcoming and comfortable environment for riders to relax and recover after each stage. With well-organised facilities and amenities, riders can enjoy a hassle-free experience and fully immerse themselves in the camaraderie of the event.

 

More than just a ride

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W2W is not just a mountain bike race; it's a test of skill, resilience, and passion. Riders are challenged to navigate technical terrain, showcasing their riding abilities and pushing their limits in a supportive and encouraging environment.

The stunning vistas and diverse landscapes encountered during the race offer a sensory feast for riders, from sweeping mountain views to lush forests and serene coastal trails. Every twist and turn reveals new wonders, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all participants.

Despite the plethora of mountain bike races in South Africa, W2W stands out as a must-do event for riders of all levels. From its world-class trails and unparalleled organisation to its infectious spirit and sense of camaraderie, W2W offers an epic adventure that every mountain biker should experience at least once in their lifetime.

 

Why people keep coming back

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The insights from the nine riders who have completed 11 or 12 editions of the FNB Wines2Whales reveal a deep-seated attachment to the event, driven by various factors. For some, like Patrick Graham and Hanlie Booyens, the allure lies in the convenience of the location, minimal administrative requirements, and the camaraderie fostered among friends and fellow riders.

This sentiment is echoed by others such as Leon Tobias, who finds joy in the evolving nature of the event and the exciting atmosphere created by the organisers each year.

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In addition to the logistical ease and social aspects, riders cherish the unique challenges and experiences offered by the Wines2Whales route. Gustav Heger and Danie Cronje appreciate the beautiful locations and the technical intricacies of the trails, while Ben Paine fondly recalls specific trail sections like Vissie’s Magic on Oak Valley.

This blend of scenic beauty and trail diversity contributes to the event's enduring appeal, drawing riders back year after year.

Wine2Whales_Stage-finish-with-son_Leon-TobiasPhoto by Leon Tobias

Beyond the physical aspects, riders express a deep emotional connection to the event. Many value the opportunity to ride competitively on exceptional trails while enjoying the relaxed social atmosphere off the bike.

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The event's strong sense of community and support, both on the trails and behind the scenes, making it one of the most cherished events on the mountain biking calendar.

These riders plan to continue participating in the FNB Wines2Whales for as long as they are physically able, driven by a passion for riding, a love for the event's unique atmosphere, and the enduring bonds forged with fellow riders over the years. Their experiences encapsulate the spirit of the Wines2Whales, showcasing its ability to provide unforgettable moments, challenge riders both physically and mentally, and foster a sense of camaraderie and community that transcends mere competition.

Legacy and Impact of Wines2Whales

Socio-Economic Impact: Contributions to sustainable mountain bike trails and improved socio-economic conditions for local communities.

Reserve Collection: Recognising loyalty of riders completing 10 or more editions, highlighting the compelling and rewarding nature of the event.

Wines2Whales continues to thrive as a premier mountain biking event, embracing innovation, inclusivity, and a culture of active living. It continues to promotes rider camaraderie, adventure, and excellence in the cycling community.

More info: https://www.epic-series.com/wines2whales


Ciovita

 

 

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