Africa-Press – Namibia. THE second annual Ride the Ridges mountain bike trail event offered an epic adventure for the 202 riders who journeyed on the lush, green, scenic ridges surrounding Windhoek over the weekend, the event’s organisers say.
Co-sponsored by PSG and Capricorn Group, the three-day stage race at Heja Lodge “exceeded all expectations”.
The demand for 2023 was so significant that entries were extended by 33%, yet the event was still sold out.
Riders contributed donations as part of their entry fees to the Gondwana Care Trust, which was selected as Ride the Ridges’ official beneficiary.
PSG and Capricorn Group on Saturday handed over a cheque for N$20 000 to the Gondwana Care Trust.
The three-day journey comprised three stages, with the first stage offering an easy introduction to the weekend.
Riders departed from 15h00 on Friday and relished the second stage on Saturday, which took them on one of the highest ridge lines in Namibia on a flowing jeep track, spread out over three privately owned farms.
Finally, the last stage commenced on Sunday, during which riders took a shorter route through the scenic Las Vegas Namibia camp.
Water points were available during all three stages, and a Rider Village at Heja Lodge brought out the deeper essence of the Ride the Ridges event with live entertainment, a gin and beer bar, and various stalls.
Family and friends gathered early each day at Heja Lodge to cheer riders on as they came in at the Rider Village tired but exhilarated by the ride.
Two lucky riders were surprised with Gondwana vouchers of N$10 000.
“PSG Namibia is proud to have been involved again this year in the Ride the Ridges, which was again a huge success thanks to all the riders who participated.
“We are honoured to support events that align with our values and we will be back next year,” says Brian van Rensburg, the director at PSG Namibia.
Patrick de Goede from event organiser Cycletec says the event is a celebration of cycling, providing a challenging yet thrilling experience for participants – hence no winner was declared at this year’s event.
“Capricorn Group is proud of its partnership with PSG in hosting this very unique three-day stage race.
“The event definitely exceeded our expectations, and it was yet another unique experience for riders.
“We are looking forward to next year,” says Capricorn Group spokesperson Marlize Horn.
Quintin Hartung, Group Environmental and Social Impact Manager at Gondwana Collection hands over a voucher to lucky rider Danny Beukes.
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