Since its origins in 2005, sani2c mountain bike race has come a long way - over 3 000km long in fact, to earn its status as the top event of its kind in the world.
The 260km stage race is the brainchild of Himeville farmer, Glen Haw, who was looking for opportunities to raise funds for building a local school.
Starting Out
An avid mountain biker, Glen decided to firstly stick to what he knows and secondly to use the raw materials at his disposal. He came up with the idea of a challenging and scenic mountain bike race through the hills of KwaZulu-Natal.
At the time, MTB stage racing was in its infancy in South Africa. Glen had been involved with the Imana Wild Ride along the Wild Coast, which inspired him to try the same thing at home in the southern Drakensberg.
Behind the Scenes
He had the experience, he had purpose, and he had a route in mind. The local community respected this and threw themselves wholeheartedly into the project. The first 600 bike riders came to race. Today over 4 000 competitors, many of them from abroad, take on this challenge annually, innovatively split between the Trail, Adventure and Race levels.
The sani2c rakes in over R30 million every year, which is pumped back into the community in many ways. In addition, the locals benefit from the tourism spin-off of the event. There’s not an empty bed for miles during sani2c.
It is expensive to organize an event of this caliber, and as far as possible, the organizers make use of local suppliers. Many local businesses and private individuals offer their services for free, which helps keep costs down and leaves more in the budget for good works.
What’s in it for You?
Apart from the worthy cause behind the race, there are many other reasons why you should arrange your southern African safari around sani2c.
Great Weather
The event takes place in May, which is autumn in South Africa. At this time of year, the weather is perfect for exploring, and even more ideal for mountain biking. Temperatures are mild, and rain is unlikely. If you’re lucky you may even get to see a few snowflakes high on the peaks of the Drakensberg.
Awesome Scenery
The route starts outside Himeville, close to the Lesotho border and sweeps through the Lesotho highlands, into the Umkomaas Valley and all the way to Scottburgh on the South Coast.
Amazing Tracks
The tracks are immaculate and used only for this one event. All along the way, communities are responsible for maintaining their stretch of the road and are paid for their efforts. Come race day, there isn’t a grain of sand out of place.
Along the trail, you’ll encounter amazing views, unique obstacles, floating bridges and smiling faces cheering you on. Back at the race village, your every need is met.
Saddle Up
When day zero dawns, KAP sani2c 2019 will be ready for you – are you up for the challenge?
Get in touch and start planning the ultimate mountain biking southern African safari, but be sure to get your ride entry in early as this is one MTB ride that is forever oversubscribed.
KAP sani2c Trail 14 -16 May 2019
KAP sani2c Adventure 15 – 17 May 2019
KAP sani2c Race 16 – 18 May 2019
