MORE THAN A RIDE
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The KAP sani2c is a three-day, 270km mountain bike stage race in the heart of KZN that has become one of the most popular mountain bike stage races in the world. Due to the popularity of the event, the organisers host two events called; the “OG” and the “Adventure”. Both events follow the same route and start 1 day apart.
There are many (some might say most) things at sani2c that are the same at each edition, and the most important and obvious one is the point-to-point route. Both events start at Glencairn Farm near Underberg and cover the same 265 kms of thrilling trails with a ridiculously high proportion of singletrack, some gut-busting climbs, leg-wobbling descents and a whole lot of fun. All riders stay at the same overnight race villages at Mackenzie Club and Jolivet Farm, and all riders cross the finish line on the grass at Scottburgh Golf Club at the coast, generally with a big smile on their faces.
KAP sani2c ‘OG’ (formerly known as KAP sani2c Race)
This is the original sani2c, where it all started. These riders are the ‘original gangstas’ of sani2c. They have been around for a while and love being part of the ‘first’ event, even though it is the last to start and finish each year. ‘OGs’ love to share their love of sani2c and welcome new riders, especially encouraging women to become ‘OGs’. The sani2c racing happens here. ‘OG’ is a UCI sanctioned event and a Prologue takes place the day before. The presence of the pro teams in the race villages creates a certain frisson in the air.
The OG starts on Thursday and finishes on Saturday.
E-bikes will be will be welcomed in the ‘OG’, starting after the regular batches.
KAP sani2c Adventure
The Adventure riders think they have the most fun. Some of them are pretty hardcore racers but they like to shine in the this event, and not try and fight it out with the pros. The beers flow fast and strong after a challenging morning out on the bike, and the stories of conquering the Unitrans Iconic Climb flow as readily. You have to be quick if you want to be an Adventurer, this event sells out fast.
Adventure starts on Wednesday and finishes on Friday. No e-bikes will be allowed to ride the Adventure, they will be welcomed in the ‘OG’.
Highlights
We can assure you that KAP sani2c has plenty of its signature fast, smooth, flowing singletrack where each rider dictates their level of technicality by adjusting their speed. Farmer Glen has been committed to improving the route since first scouting rides way back in 1992.
The event begins on a small sheep farm near the country’s mother of all mountain passes, the Sani Pass in the southern Drakensberg. Pedaling across a section of the KZN Midlands mist belt, riders traverse scenic dairy and timber farms, glide through indigenous forests and soar down a breath-taking pass into the Umkomaas Valley before crisscrossing a nature reserve and sugar cane farms that eventually deliver them onto the shores of the Indian Ocean.
Not only is the event well-known for its exceptional route, hospitality and gees (that’s the South African word for great spirit, mood or vibe), but the KAP sani2c business model is also highly-regarded for its innovative community focus. Since its inception, the race has involved and provided for communities, including schools, charities, rural populations and entrepreneurs along the route. Formalised as the sani2c Community Development Trust in 2017, this model underscores the KAP sani2c maxim, More Than A Ride.
What to expect at a glance:
– 3 days of amazing trails through KZN. From the majestic mountains of Sani Pass, Southern Drakensberg to the lapping shores of the warm Indian Ocean at Scottburgh Beach, KZN, South Coast.
– Tented accommodation (a four-man tent to share with your partner).
– 3 meals a day plus a 24-hour chill zone.
– Access to all the race facilities i.e. hot showers, bike wash facility, and rider chills zones.
– Professional medical support.
– Full logistical support.
– 2 to 3 water points along the route with lots to eat and drink.
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