Since the inception of the national marathon series in 2001, MTN Barberton Mountain Bike Event is the only race in which more than 70% of South African mountain bikers have competed in the event at least once.
One of the main reasons for the success of the MTN Barberton event is that it is being organised by people who are passionate about the sport. For event organisers Fritz Pienaar and Wessel van der Walt it is important that riders are not disappointed after having competed in one of the MTN or Nissan races, as well as providing the riders with unique challenges at every event.
When it comes to single-track sections, their motto has always been ‘more is better’. This is why the MTN Barberton event is such a popular event.
All the riders, whether they compete in the 120km, 70km and 40km races, get the opportunity to race through the Mountainlands Nature Reserve which provides 14 river crossings in one race. It is not only one of the most beautiful wilderness areas in South Africa, but it also has some of the most exciting single and jeep track sections.
The reserve that was established in 2000, derives its name from the geological reference to Barberton Mountain Land. It is at the core of a new World Heritage Site and central to the Archaean Greenstone Belt in which some of the oldest preserved rocks and earliest forms of life on Earth can be found.
“The 2012 MTN MTB series promises to be yet another riveting experience for the riders who will be participating on the 28th January and throughout the year. MTN is optimistic that the Barberton race will give riders an exciting start to the season and showcase MTN’s commitment towards the promotion of mountain biking as an endurance sport says Desiree Pooe, Senior Manager: Sponsorship and Events at MTN SA
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