WELCOME TO WOESRAND MTB

Every month we are going to try and put together a 100km + MTB ride for those wanting to stretch the legs a bit and spend time in the saddle. This month we decided to do a long ride to Magalies from home (Honeydew Side). +/- 120km with about 1500m climbing. The route is longer but less technical than our normal WOESTRAILS with many riders joining along the way. 

A massive group of 27 riders pitched up for the ride. Big groups always have a different dynamic, they are normally a bit slower due to stops & re-groups but also because of mechanicals creeping in. We only had 4 mechanicals that I can remember, 2 chains and 2 wheels that needed some air which is actually very little considering the group size. The route is mainly gravel with very little single-track making it quite doable for any level of rider. The main goal was distance and time in the saddle for this one. 

It was a hot day with temperatures reaching 40°C around noon. After refilling at the Wimpy in Magalies we decided to take the “normal route” back, cement climb up to the tower and then over the train bridge where a lot of work is currently happing along the railway line. The train bridge still doesn’t have railings on the side, making the crossing a bit challenging for some riders. Nothing that can’t be overcome with a helping hand close by making sure everyone gets over the bridge safely, as always.

One rider had an unfortunate incident, pulling the front brakes on an open tar section when reaching for his bottle, resulting in quite a hard fall on the tar. His riding buddy arranged a lift back for them to their cars as we suspected possible concussion and didn’t want him to continue the ride. Happy to report that he got home safely and is busy recovering.

One rider even saved a sheep that fell in a drinking trough. As the riders went past a farm, someone spotted the sheep struggling in the water, needless to say help was around the corner …. where was the camera? Come on guys, dropped the ball on this one.

Thank you to everyone the joined, motivated, pushed, pumped, lubed, carried and assisted in making the ride a memorable one … you all ROCK!

YouTube video link below.