Pieter du Toit (Potchefstroom) and Danielle Strydom (Potchefstroom) made light work of the FNB Magalies Monster MTB Classic aka “The Monster” that was hosted at the ATKV Buffelspoort today (Saturday 01 June 2019).
Du Toit, Strydom slay the FNB Magalies Monster MTB Classic
Just under 1300 eager mountain bikers toed the line to test their mountain biking prowess against the17th edition of this much revered MTB event.
Du Toit, who was still smiling when he crossed the finish line, claimed victory in the Marathon (+-65km) in a deserving time of 02 hours 53 minutes. “The FNB Magalies Monster MTB Classic is a very cool race to do,” says du Toit. “It’s one of the tougher races, so it’s very nice to do well here. The race started quite slow with a big bunch of riders staying together. I managed to get a small gap of 10 – 15 seconds on the Monster climb. From there the gap just grew and I had a good race. It’s really nice to claim gold because last year I punctured and the Monster beat me. It’s great to beat the Monster this year.” Marc Fourie came in second, while Keagan Bontekoning finished third.
In the women’s race Strydom secured victory in 03 hours 25 minutes 13 seconds. “The FNB Magalies Monster MTB Classic is the only race that I know of where the down-hills are actually tougher than the up-hills,” laughs Strydom. “That says a lot because this event is known for its ‘Monster’ climb. Today was proper my shoulders are ‘lekkermoeg’. There was some competition, so I decided to go out hard in the beginning and see how long I could keep it up. Luckily I was able to drop the rider and just kept it throughout the race, pacing myself. This is an iconic race, one that a lot of people talk about. To be able to win it is a good feeling.” Sanet Coetzee came in second, while Brigitte Joubert finished third.
Bertie Anderson (Pretoria East) was the first rider to cross the finish line in the FNB Magalies Monster MTB Classic Half Marathon (+-33km). “I had a fun race. I managed to get to the top of the big climb. It means a lot to finish first because I am younger than the rest of the riders.” Anton Roelofse came in second, while Antonie Lit finished third.
Monique du Toit (Pretoria East) set the route on fire in the women’s FNB Magalies Monster MTB Classic Half Marathon (+-33km). “The route was very nice, rough and hilly,” says Du Toit. “It’s tough to ride with a hard tail, but I enjoyed it. This is a really tough race and I am glad to win it. I’d definitely recommend the event to family and friends, but you do need to be fit. It’s tough, but the route is scenic and the atmosphere at Buffelspoort is really nice.” Jone van Eeden came in second, while Caitlin Thompson finished third.
In the FNB Magalies Monster MTB ClassicFun Ride (+-15km)Ernest Roets crossed the finish line first in 40 minutes 15 seconds. Zuan Jacobs came in second, while Carlo Du Pisani finished third.
Nicky Flynn was the first rider home in the women’s race in a time of 54 minutes. Myra Mantle came in second, while Melissa-Sue Harmse finished third.
In addition to the Marathon (+-65km), Half Marathon (+-33km) and Fun Ride (+-15km) the 2019 FNB Magalies Monster MTB Classic also featured a 2.5km Kids Event where junior mountain biking enthusiasts could experience the spectacular sport of mountain biking.
“Congratulations to all participants and sports enthusiasts for a breath-taking performance. This event continues to grow robustly every year and it’s arguably one of the best races in the South African sporting calendar. It doesn’t only provide an adrenaline rush adventure to professional athletes, but a joyous memorable experience for our clients, families and friends. Well done to all the winners, we look forward to seeing more people next year,” says Mike Vacy-Lyle, FNB Business CEO.
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