FNB Wines2Whales – The race with GEES!
The FNB Wines2Whales was born out of the desire to create a world-class 3-day stage race in the Western Cape of South Africa. Since inception in 2009, the three events, aptly named after the wines of the area, have become a must-do event on the mountain bike calendar with riders from the farthest reaches of the country and the world.
Its biggest drawcard is undoubtedly the route, which has been perfected over the past decade (plus a few!). Like a fine wine, the race has only improved with time. In 2024, the race goes back to its roots, tackling the original route from Lourensford Wine Estate to the coastal town of Hermanus via Oak Valley Estate. The route is packed with sections that both thrill and torment (hello, Gantouw!), with incredible views, new trails, and of course, the old favourites WILL BE BACK!
Take your pick between these three consecutive events:
1. The Chardonnay:
- The Chardonnay is the most popular of the three events as it takes place over the first weekend of the 10-day race period and offers riders the chance to be amongst the first to experience the brand new sections that we’ve created just for this year’s events. This event is dedicated to Women’s racing and we see some of South Africa’s, and often the world’s, best female riders battle it out for the overall prize money and leader jerseys.
2. The Pinotage
- The Pinotage is the event that sees the highest number of FNB Wines2Whales first-timers and is perfect for international tourists as well as riders from different provinces as it offers participants the chance to enjoy a mid-week race with an enjoyable weekend on either side.
3. The Shiraz
- The Shiraz takes place over the last weekend of the race and is dedicated to those riders who want to test their skills and fitness against the best in the Men’s, Mixed and Exxaro teams. Generally, the riding is a lot faster and sees many FNB Wines2Whales riders return with a mix of familiarity and determination to compete in their respective age categories.
Click here for all the details.