Race Report – 2008 Sprint Race Series Final, Paul Cluver Estate, Elgin

Just as predicted, the final race in the Salomon Quantum Adventures Adventure Sprint series was a hotly contested race right from the word go. Scores of top teams lined the start line, all eager to get an early lead on their competitors. A short flat MTB loop through the orchards soon separated the serious from the not so serious contenders before heading out onto seriously quick and loopy singletrack. The 300° switchbacks caught many a rider unaware, and resulted in more than a few scratches and grazes. With the downhill over, it was a short climb and a section of uphill singletrack before the 20m “Hike-a-bike” up onto the railway line. The hike-a-bike proved to be the bane of many racers, with curses and moans being heard from a distance.

Once in transition, racers had to contend with a multitude of other runners/bikers and general public before getting out on to the fast and flat running leg. The run leg, at 4.8km was slightly longer than usual, and for once favored the stronger runners, and not the mountain bikers. A refreshing dam crossing awaited racers halfway through the running leg, with many teams wishing they could walk on water due to the icy breeze that had picked up during the course of the race.

The race lead changed multiple times, with Giant/New Balance eventually pipping Cyclelab to the post by less than a minute, in a total time of 1hr42min

Giant/Salomon took the honours in the mixed category, to make it 3 out of 3 for the series. Their feat was mirrored by all ladies team BMC, who took top honours in the Open Women’s category for their 3rd straight victory as well.

For the overall results, series standings and more, go check out www.quantumadventures.co.za.