Newsletters

Newsletters and archives

Newsletter Vol. 5 No.10

Posted on May 10, 2012 by James

Tygerberg Mountainbike Club

Addicted To Dirt

www.tygerbergmtb.co.za

Mission: To Provide The Best Trail Experience in The Western Cape!10 May 2012 1604 Members

Club Rides and Ride ReportsJoburg2C I have just returned from completing my second Joburg2C. The obvious question is always, “How does this event compare to the Epic?” Well – it doesn’t! This is definitely a ‘not for sissies’ event since it takes place over 9 days and more than 900km but there are very few similarities. From the moment of registration, every rider is aware that they are the most important part of the event. Proper Wappo, Gary and Glen and their wives; Kelly, Mandy and Nicky run the show. They meet you at the airport and see you off on the shuttle at the end of the 9 days. Each one of them is on the line on the last day to shake your hand and award your medal. The evening prize presentation at the end of each day, starts with a slide show of pictures by Kelvin Trautman, an unassuming brilliant photographer, who chases around every day in a helicopter, on foot and on the motorbike, capturing the most amazing pictures. The winners in each category put on a good dance each evening and then the 3 organizers offer some vague ideas about what to expect the next day. The most unusual aspect of the whole event is that it is not profit driven, it is community based. The different towns are responsible for the food, tents, waterpoints, entertainment, welcome gifts etc. and because they are competing to be the best, everything is outstanding – thick juicy steaks, koeksusters, efficient laundry, free internet, free beers, free milkies, free coffee, lunch no matter what time you finish, kids to carry your bag, kids to wash and lube your bike - 9 days to just think about yourself and enjoy your bike. The event can be divided up into 3 sections: Day 1 to 3: Proper Wappo’s section – The distances are 95 to 125km with about 1000m of climbing each day. Nothing all that big, but the endless rollers and tight trails on soft soil, grassy tufts and jeep track, wear you out a little at a time. The Vaal River crossing in Dragon boats, the trip through the wolf sanctuary and the vast Sterkfontein Dam are the highlights on these 3 days. Day 4 to 6: Farmer Gary’s Berg and Bush. This is the climbing and descending section. The distances again from 95 to 126km but with climbs of 1686m to 2465m each day. Some of this is on district road which results in climbs of 6 to 9km at a time and the rest is on rough jeep track and trails. Day 4 is definitely the hardest and yet the most amazing of the entire tour. The adrenaline descents down the windy Escarpment and Bezuidenhout’s Pass are just enough to get you up Spioenkop and Puffadder Pass after a swim through a 1.2m deep river with bike. Day 7 to 9: Farmer Glen’s Sani to Sea. The single track routes go on forever and the scenery changes from mealie fields and sunflowers to thorn trees, dairy farms, bridges, pine forests and sugar cane. Day 7 is a dash from one single track to the other and day 8, with a descent into the Umkomaas and the tough climb out again could definitely be better termed “Heaven and Hell” as they are a very stark contrast to each other. Day 9 is an all-out sprint to the finish with a few challenging climbs thrown in just to remind you how much the legs have suffered over the past few days. Looking back on the last 9 days, makes one realize how fortunate one is to take part in a stage event. Every person who loves mountain biking should put this one on their bucket list. It is the perfect opportunity to escape reality, meet outstanding cyclists, realize how much beauty our country has to offer and live a dream, even for just a few days. Jan

If you have been riding somewhere interesting or had an interesting ride somewhere not so exciting, please share it with our members.

Membership FeesPlease note that for those that will still be joining the club this year, the membership fees for 2012 will be discounted by 20% on the 1 June 2012. The fees will be: Main Member - R420 Spouse - R280 Child Dependent - R120 Family - R800 Pensioners & Students - R200
Club OfficerThe applications for the Club Officer have been received and are being shortlisted. All applications will be contacted before the end of this week to inform them if they have been shortlisted or not. Interviews will be carried out as soon as possible.

Fun Cycle on 11 May 2012 in aid of SAPS Education Trust (Brackenfell Cycle Tour)Brackenfell SAPS is organizing a cycle tour from 2012-05-07 until 2012-05-11. 16 Police members will be cycling a total of 496 km over this 5 day period in aid of the SAPS Education Trust. This trust is for children of police officials who died in the line of duty. Through this trust families of deceased policemen can apply to further their children’s studies. All money raised through this tour will be donated to abovementioned trust. On the last day of the tour, Friday 2012-05-11, the cyclists will arrive at Hazendal Wine Estate at approximately 13:30. From there other cyclists will have the opportunity to accompany the group on their last 8 km to Brackenfell Sport Ground, where the tour will officially come to an end. The event will end with a concert by various well known artists that also contributed to the tour. Refreshments will also be available. Entry fees will be R10-00 per person. This money will also be donated to the SAPS Education Trust. Members can contact Japie Scholtz at tel 021 981 5984 to enter. He can also be mailed at japie@unioncycles.co.za. Registration on the day will take place from 11:00 to 12:30 at Hazendal Wine Estate, Bottelary Road, Brackenfell. This will also be the departure point of the fun cycle at 14:00. We are looking forward to see you there!

From our Facebook GroupHi Everyone, I'm a member of the Volunteer Wildfire Services and every year we hold the VWS Trail Challenge, a 25km and 10km trail run set on the slopes of Table Mountain, to raise much needed funds for our organisation. This year, we are looking for +/- 11 mountain bikers to volunteer their time to assist with the race. Individual riders would be required to accompany the first male & female runners in both distances and sweep riders would be required for both distances. It would be great to have some other riders along the trail to ensure that runners do not take wrong turns or be able to ride after the ones that do. The race will be taking place on the 27th May and typically starts early in the morning. If you're interested, let me know. Our guys work hard to protect our natural heritage and residential property at no cost, so I'd appreciate any help you can offer. In order to provide MTB marshalling for the VWS Trail Challenge, we'll be riding the 25km route this coming Saturday to determine where to position riders in order to avoid having to keep up with the top runners on the climbs. Those riders offering to act as sweepers will also gain some knowledge of the route. Please confirm if you will be joining the recce and, more importantly, if you are able to assist on the day of the race, the 27th May. Cheers, Lee Glanville
Dear Tygerburgers!Most of you know of the XC at Zevenwacht this weekend. This is your official invitation to join the HardTail category of the Dh event happening on the same weekend. Practice is on Saturday, Race on Sunday. If you don't want to ride, just come along anyways and support! Martin Lompa
Hi TYGMTB'ers,I am urgently looking for a shuttle or lift from Durban International to Underberg on Monday afternoon (14 May) , if anyone knows of a service or can offer a lift please let me know, I am willing to pay my share Nicky Webb
WP cross country eventsThese olympic style lap racing events are very spectator friendly and all are welcome to come and watch the action. The day before race day is practice day. There is a special track for the kids. They are open to all, normal race licencing applies. R60 for the kids and R120 for the racers. Sponsored by Paarl Media 13 May @ Zevenwacht, 3 June @ Hillcrest, 14 July for all juniors in Paarl 15 July at Delvera for the other age groups 16 July @ The Slammer for WP champs. For further information please contact Arno on 0723003660

Bloemendal FenceElectric fencing at Bloemendal: If you haven't seen yet, there is new electric fence being installed alongside Tygervalley Rd and the green corridor gate at the road crossing is going to be closed. Until notified otherwise, pls can you use the entrance to the Bloemendal concrete road and immediately turn left onto the jeep track which runs alongside the fence to Nitida. NB - Please DON"T ride on the concrete road and stop any others you may see using it.

Meerendal FencePlease take note of the new fence at Meerendal, with the wire being very new it is not very visible. It should not be any risk to us as it does not cross or cut off any of our trails or the offical access to them.
Bike BoardsFollowing the comment on the size and need to attach the club bike boards, alternate solutions are being sought for next year. In the time being, please ensure that your board is fixed on your handle bar so that it is clearly visible. If you have any suggestions on how we can readily show membership, have unique identification (visible from at least 30 metres away) and have control over duplication, please give us a shout.

One for the ladies!

Reeds, the SponsorAfter deciding that it was time to trade in the Citroen after 5 years of loyal service, I visited the full range of car dealers in the Northern Suburbs to look for a replacement. As a women, this is quite an intimidating challenge. I managed to cut the choice down to 3 – a Nissen, a Chevy or a Hyundai . There are a few dealers for each of these brands and all had good vehicles to offer but unfortunately none of them could come up to the standard of service and care which Reeds, the club sponsor, took in their commitment to not only giving me the best offer but also a good trade-in and professional service. I chose the Chevy Sonic 2 days before leaving for Joburg2C and arrived back to collect the keys, detach the big red bow and drive away. My thanks to Gareth of Reeds Tyger Valley and Francois of Reeds N1 for their attention to detail and commitment to making sure that everything went smoothly. Tygerberg Mountain Bike Club can be proud to be associated with your sponsorship. Jan
And another one for the Ladies!Cycle Lab Tours presents the, Inner Mountains Ladies MTB Tour Three days of scenic mountain biking, followed by a rejuvenating spa and yoga experience, combining challenge and reward from Wellington to Tulbagh and back. This weekend is designed for you and your friends to break away on a physical and mental journey, exploring the mountains within and around you. Refresh and relax your body and mind as every days mountainbiking is followed by rejuvenating spa and yoga experiences. DATES: Friday 22 June - Sunday 24 June (2 nights, 3 days) TOUR COST: R 3795.00 (incl. VAT) per person sharing *ONLY 25 SPOTS AVAILABLE* DISTANCES: • SHORT Route: Day 1 - 35km, Day 2 – 40km, Day 3 - 35km • LONG Route: Day 1 - 70km, Day 2 – 40km, Day 3 - 55km ROUTE: Open Gravel roads with rolling hills and gradual climbs, exploring the Winelands and Breede Valley at your own pace and leisure Your hosts for the weekend are SA Freediving Champion and Yoga Instructor Hanli Prinsloo and IronMan SA and ABSA Cape Epic Finisher Eulogy du Plessis from Cycle Lab Tours & Events with the rest of her team. FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE TOUR INFORMATION: Maritza Terblanche (e) maritza@cyclelab.com (t) 021 702 7888 Tour package fee includes: • Sharing accommodation at Vindoux Guest Farm, Spa & Luxury Tree Houses on a B&B basis (www.vindoux.com) • Light Breakfast at Welvanpas on morning of departure • All Meals – 3 x Breakfast, 3 x Lunches, 2 x Dinners • Snacks and drinks along the route • Road Safety – Back Up Vehicle and bike trailer • Ride Leaders & Bike mechanic • Daily Yoga Sessions (breathing, stretching and relaxation) • Informative talks on mental strength & superfoods • Gift and Pamper Packs Optional Extras: • Book a Spa Session for only R250.00 • Order a Cycle Lab Store Craft Kit at a special tour price! • Transfer to and from Wellington from Cape Town • Company or individual sponsorship of co-branded cycling kit Not included: • Coffee Stop drinks • Drinks at dinner, hard alcohol, guesthouse extras • Additional Spares purchased
Member's CornerHell and Back Entry Entry ticket for this year's Hell and Back ride available I will not be able to attend as I will only start riding again as a beginner in July, so a few Slow Coach and social rides are all I will be doing this year. Entries are not yet open and this ticket is carried over from last year due to me needing surgery. I am selling it for R750.00 and its a guaranteed entry. My cell No is 0795295946 Craig Broadfoot
Junior MTB RidesHi Junior Riders, we are going to be reducing the rides to 1 day a week during the winter months. From this weekend onwards the only junior ride will be at 9am at Meerendal on Saturdays. We have made this decision due to low numbers that are attending on Mondays and Wednesdays. (4.30pm seems to be a bit too early for everyone to get there, but we cannot start later due to the light.) Let's see how a Saturday ride works out for all. Feedback welcome. Please note that if the weather is bad, please send Theresa an sms to check if the ride is still happening! 083 271 2563. Theresa & Gary

HoogekraalThe new trail at Hoogekraal that was announced at the Epic Prologue presentation will soon be open. The agreement has been signed with the landowner and development and building of the trail will commence this month. This will be approximately 10km of intermediate skill trails. The trail will take the fragile Renosterveld into account and advice will be on hand to ensure the minimum disruption of this natural resource. Watch this space!!
Majik Forest Trail MaintenanceA meeting is to be held with the Cape Town City Council and the trail maintenance contractor this week. With the Majik Forest trails being on CTCC property, their participation is required before any alterations or remedial work is carried out.

Newsletter Statistics Some stats from last weeks newsletter: Recipients - 2682 (growth of 537 over 12 months) Opens - 840 = 31.4% against an industry standard of 21.4% Highest open campaign was 56.2%for the newsflash of 14 March 2011 - Majik Forest Attacker

The ride calendar has been updated to include well over 100 funrides and races in the Western and Eastern Cape for 2012, it will be expanded to include the bigger races in the other provinces. Have a look here. Most have additional information available which is accessed by clicking on the event. If there are any events or information missing, please give me a shout.
If you are receiving this newsletter from a friend, why not join the newsletter distribution list. If you think someone may want to receive this newsletter, please send them this link:http://www.tygerbergmtb.co.za/newsletter/join-our-newsletter.html

If you have any comments, ideas, or articles, let me know, Rob GriffinSee you on a trail near here soon!

This post was posted in Newsletters
Newsletter Vol. 5 No.8

Posted on May 3, 2012 by James

1582 Members

Club Rides and Ride Reports Planning a ride this Saturday...if the weather is good! We start at Majik Forest (meet 08:30 at Protea Hotel parking lot next to Majik Forrest), we will take the road to Meerendal to do the red route, back through D'Urbanvale and over Malanshoogte (lekker heavy klim op die pad) back via Tiekie draai and then the single track at Majik Forest down to the parking lot and back to the hotel! EISH! If you are keen....feel free to join this ride...+- 50km This is for the fit and not the unfit! Members and non-members welcome! Non members must remember R30 for Meerendal Riaan van Wyk
From our Facebook Group: Who wants to join Marius Fenwick and myself (Andre Jansen van Vuuren) for a MTB double Century on the 24th of November?

Rules are as follows, No slicks, no racing for times but no crawlers neither, train together as much as possible on Saterdays, no ego's, have a sence of humour, everyone will finish together, have fun. Let me know if your interrested. O yes, there is no sponsorship so all costs will be for your own pocket. Cheers
There seems to have been a couple of sightings of the rooikat at Meerendal!
If you have been riding somewhere interesting or had an interesting ride somewhere not so exciting, please share it with our members.

One for the ladies!
And another one for the Ladies! Cycle Lab Tours presents the, Inner Mountains Ladies MTB Tour Three days of scenic mountain biking, followed by a rejuvenating spa and yoga experience, combining challenge and reward from Wellington to Tulbagh and back. This weekend is designed for you and your friends to break away on a physical and mental journey, exploring the mountains within and around you. Refresh and relax your body and mind as every days mountainbiking is followed by rejuvenating spa and yoga experiences. DATES: Friday 22 June - Sunday 24 June (2 nights, 3 days) TOUR COST: R 3795.00 (incl. VAT) per person sharing *ONLY 25 SPOTS AVAILABLE* DISTANCES: • SHORT Route: Day 1 - 35km, Day 2 – 40km, Day 3 - 35km • LONG Route: Day 1 - 70km, Day 2 – 40km, Day 3 - 55km ROUTE: Open Gravel roads with rolling hills and gradual climbs, exploring the Winelands and Breede Valley at your own pace and leisure Your hosts for the weekend are SA Freediving Champion and Yoga Instructor Hanli Prinsloo and IronMan SA and ABSA Cape Epic Finisher Eulogy du Plessis from Cycle Lab Tours & Events with the rest of her team. FOR BOOKINGS AND MORE TOUR INFORMATION: Maritza Terblanche (e) maritza@cyclelab.com (t) 021 702 7888 Tour package fee includes: • Sharing accommodation at Vindoux Guest Farm, Spa & Luxury Tree Houses on a B&B basis (www.vindoux.com) • Light Breakfast at Welvanpas on morning of departure • All Meals – 3 x Breakfast, 3 x Lunches, 2 x Dinners • Snacks and drinks along the route • Road Safety – Back Up Vehicle and bike trailer • Ride Leaders & Bike mechanic • Daily Yoga Sessions (breathing, stretching and relaxation) • Informative talks on mental strength & superfoods • Gift and Pamper Packs Optional Extras: • Book a Spa Session for only R250.00 • Order a Cycle Lab Store Craft Kit at a special tour price! • Transfer to and from Wellington from Cape Town • Company or individual sponsorship of co-branded cycling kit Not included: • Coffee Stop drinks • Drinks at dinner, hard alcohol, guesthouse extras • Additional Spares purchased
Member's Corner For Sale: Specialized S-works full carbon full suspension medium for sale, ridden only by an old man! Call Neville at 083 225 7339 for a giveaway price of R28 000! For Sale: Cycle Lab Sani2C Bike Transport package? I have 2 available for the cost of R1170.00 neg each. The package includes: · Customised bike box · Boxing of bike at Cycle Lab CT · Transport to Underberg · Building of bike and collection at race registration in Underberg · Boxing of bike in Scottburgh · Transport back to CT · Building of bike and collection at Northgate Island Anyone interested can contact Julia on 0827706941 or Neil 0833269315.

A Friendly Request from a Fellow Trail User Hi Mountain Bikers I own a horse who lives adjacent to Meerendal, and we often ride there. When the bike trails were first built some of the horses were terrified (it's a prey animal thing), but they've now mostly made peace with bikes in the distance or from the front. But please, I beg you, just call out to us if you're coming up from behind. A bike suddenly appearing in a horse's peripheral vision, especially at speed, will startle most of them. At best the horse and rider just gets a skrik, but sometimes the horses react so violently that the rider falls off and I don't even want to think about the wreck that will result if a horse spooks into a bike. A big thank you to all of you who are considerate, we enjoy chatting to you along the way and enjoying this beautiful area together. Regards Heila McKinley

Club Officer A number of applications have been received for this position. Shortlisting is in progress and interviews will follow shortly.
The ride calendar has been updated to include well over 100 funrides and races in the Western and Eastern Cape for 2012, it will be expanded to include the bigger races in the other provinces. Have a look here. Most have additional information available which is accessed by clicking on the event. If there are any events or information missing, please give me a shout.
If you are receiving this newsletter from a friend, why not join the newsletter distribution list. If you think someone may want to receive this newsletter, please send them this link: http://www.tygerbergmtb.co.za/newsletter/join-our-newsletter.html

If you have any comments, ideas, or articles, let me know, Rob Griffin See you on a trail near here soon!

This post was posted in Newsletters
Tygerberg mtb Club Newsbrief vol 1. no.7 20120426

Posted on April 26, 2012 by James

Tygerberg Mountainbike Club

Addicted To Dirt

www.tygerbergmtb.co.za

Mission: To Provide The Best Trail Experience in The Western Cape!
Newsbrief Vol.1 No.7
26 April 2012
1563 Members

Wednesday Night Rides

Wednesday's night rides are still going strong. 6pm onwards from the clubhouse on Nitida Wine farm. Main group of riders leaving at 6:30. Boerewors rolls and drinks are available.

Slowcoach April 29 Meerendal 8am

Looks rainy on Sunday & certainly chilly, but should be nice for a ride. If still raining then postpone to Monday 30 April same time same place! Watch Facebook for cancellation notice at 7am Sunday, if nothing then rider is on.

I propose a nice gentle cruise or walk along the BLUE route and then another red loop after that for good measure :)
come and ride as per your heart/legs desire.

Last week at Majik we had coffee/Tea at the Vineyard Hotel and I HAVE to comment that the service was hotter than the coffee!
Slowcoach

Members Corner

MTB for sale
Woman’s mountain bike : Teocali/Monsoon. 2009 model, Small frame, dual suspension soft tail, 29 gears, gel/slime in tyres with helmet. R24000 new Now R12500 neg Like new. Please contact Pierre

Houw Hoek Tour entry
If anyone has an entry which they are not using please contact Schalk.

Bike Computer found
Found a small bike computer this morning at Majik. Model: Sigma 1106. Please contact Truhann

Calendar and Upcoming events

28th of April: Test ride the Velocite Flux MTB at our New Club House

Please join us and ride the Velocite Flux on Saturday the 28th of April from 09:00 in the morning to 3 in the afternoon. You would be required to fill in a indemnity form and leave your MTB with us while you test ride our bike. Each person will be allowed a 30 to 45 min ride (depending on demand) to give other riders the chance to ride this bike as well. We will have 2 medium Velocite Flux bikes available.
Club kit will be on sale from the clubhouse from now on. Baggie shorts are marked down to R315 and T-shirts marked down to R50.
Or come just come say hello and have a cup of coffee while you're on the trails.

Fun Cycle in aid of the SAPS Education Trust 11th of May 2012

Brackenfell SAPS is organising a cycle tour from 2012-05-07 until 2012-05-11. 16 Police members will be cycling a total of 496 km over this 5 day period in aid of the SAPS Education Trust. This trust
is for children of police officials who died in the line of duty. Through this trust families of deceased policemen can apply to further their children’s studies.
On the last day of the tour, Friday 2012-05-11, the cyclists will arrive at Hazendal Wine Estate at approximately 13:30. From there other cyclists will have the opportunity to accompany the group on their last 8 km to Brackenfell Sport Ground, where the tour will officially come to an end. The event will end with a concert by various well known artists that also contributed to the tour. Entry fees will be R10-00 per person. This money will also be donated to the SAPS Education Trust. Members can contact Japie Scholtz. Registration on the day will take place from 11:00 to 12:30 at Hazendal Wine Estate, Bottelary Road, Brackenfell. This will also be the departure point of the fun cycle at 14:00.

Single Speed World Champs 2012

On the 29th of September 2012, in a little South African town called Winterton, Single Speeders of the world will do battle for the coveted title of World Champ. Of course, the majority of the field will be there to dress up in batty outfits and party all night long after the race. Some will be there for the beer shortcuts, a signature of this annual leapfrogging global event. Some will come to win the games and the rights to host SSWC2013 in their country. Some will be there to get the tattoo reserved for the winner and yet others will simply come to make friends and experience the awe inspiring riding of the KwaZulu Natal bushveld.
No points, no qualification, ride any bike limited to one gear. Anyone can enter this World Champs!
It is important for you to know up front that in keeping with the ethos of this event, this is a non commercial, *not-for-profit initiative*. All proceeds go into making the event a magnificent experience for the rider and any spinoffs go back into the small community that will be hosting this event and that is a big deal down here in Africa. We as organisers are all volunteers with nothing more to motivate us than a love of riding, the post ride party and the desire to showcase our country to the world.

Rocking for Rhinos

The statistics on Rhino poaching makes us realise that we all need to bring awareness to the plight of these helpless animals.
With that in mind the “Rocking for Rhinos” team wants to create awareness, and to raise funds for the Higgins project, by hosting a Rock and Blues concert at Hillcrest Wine Estate in Durbanville, on Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th May. The concert is aimed at everyone with a heart and all proceeds will go to the rehabilitation of these rhinos, Higgins and Lady.
The Rocking for Rhinos event’s team has pledged to make it an annual event with a different recipient each year.
You can BOOK ONLINE on Computicket.

Band Line up
Saturday 5th May: R100.00 entry donation
12h00: Akkedis
12h30: Christian Castell
13h10: Tombstone Pete
13h50: The Stremes
14h30: Freddie Van’Dango (Idols)
15h15: Janie Bay
16h00: Ashtray Electric
17h00: When Karma Sleeps
18h00: Pebbleman – Jesse Jordan & Richard Prior
19h00: MARK HAZE
20h00: December Streets
21h00: Boombox Troopers
22h00: Reburn
Sunday 6th May: R50.00 entry donation
11h00: Ballistic Blues
12h00: Six Gun Gospel
13h00: Spontaneous Combustion Blues Band
14h00: Crimson House Blues
15h00: Natasha Meister Band
16h00: The Studerbakers
17h00: Jack Mantis Band
There will be lots to eat and drink.

Remember to have a look at the calendar on the Club's website. If you have any events that you would like to include or if I have missed anything, just drop me an email with the detail.

If you have any comments or ideas for this newsbrief, let me know, Mienke Koen
See you on a trail near here soon!

This post was posted in Newsletters
Tygerberg MTB Club Newsflash

Posted on April 23, 2012 by James

Tygerberg Mountainbike Club Newsflash - 23 April 2012

Hillcrest Night ride - Wednesday 25th of AprilHillcrest night ride is on again this Wednesday at 6pm onwards (main group of riders leaving at 6:30). Start at clubhouse on Nitida wine farm. Boerie rolls and drinks will be available again. Weather is looking like there's a possibility of some showers so will confirm again on Wednesday morning on Facebook

As you can see, we are experimenting with new formats for the newsletter, newsbrief and newsflash. If you have any comments or ideas, let me know, Rob Griffin See you on a trail near here soon!

This post was posted in Newsletters
TMTBC Newsletter vol 5. no.8 20120419

Posted on April 19, 2012 by James
Tygerberg Mountainbike Club

Addicted To Dirt

www.tygerbergmtb.co.za
Mission: To Provide The Best Trail Experience in The Western Cape!
Newsletter Vol. 5 No.8
19 April 2012
1533 Members
Club Rides and Ride Reports

Adventure Ride: 22 April 2012

James Thornhill-Fisher will be leading an Adventure ride this Sunday 22 April 2012, Thandi. Be ready to ride 07:45.
There are four Routes:
Black – 32km – lots of single track and jeep track - incl. the infamous “Pofadder” a 100m North Shore type wooden Trail – running between rocks, a waterfall and over a river (part of the Wines2Whales)
Red – 32km similar to Black – but excluding the technical parts – e.g. “Pofadder”
Blue – 8km – easy single tracks on Thandi only
Green – 4km – very easy and no single tracks
There is a number board system, R20 for PPA members, R40 for non-members. R30 refundable deposit for the temp bike board.
How to get there GPS: 34°05′27.0″S 018°51′20.5″E or meet us at the Engen Onestop on the N2 before Somerset West at 06:30 (we will leave the garage at 06:45)

Wednesday and Thursday night rides
The club has special permission from the farms for these two rides. No other night riding is allowed on the wine farms.
Keep your eyes open, they will be announced on our Facebook page.

Wednesday rides are from the Club house on NItida wine farm: Usually start from 18:00 - 18:30

Thursday night rides are on Meerendal wine farm Ready to ride 19:00

Ride report: Tackling the tour, Amateur style by Calvin Fisher

I THINK MY sister said it best just after I crossed the finish line when she grabbed me and proclaimed “Calvin... We just don’t do this sort of thing. Not in OUR family?” She was right, which is why
9 weeks before the 2012 Argus I was in the worst shape of my life. At 134.2kg, I was always going to battle on my first long ride - a 33km stint filled with grimacing and regret. Yet, when it was over, pulverized ass aside, I felt exhilarated, alive and possessed of the notion that I was capable of doing the Argus. A frantic scanning of charity organizations revealed what I was looking for, a ticket to ride, well beyond the cut-off time. I was in! Did I mention that the 33km was probably the fifth time I'd ever ridden my bike, including a few breathless trips to the 711? How about the fact that it was a mountain bike, still rolling on factory knobblies?
What ensued next was a fat man's manic scanning of Bicycling and Men’s Health back issues and similarly frenzied Googling of the interweb. Soon enough, I was armed with tips on nutrition and training, some conflicting, but most of them pointing in the same direction. This called for hard work, dedication... and if I was going to have any hope of climbing those hills I needed to shed some pounds. Like, a LOT. ... Continue reading

If you have been riding somewhere interesting or had an interesting ride somewhere not so exciting, please share it with our members.
Single Track Mind
Brought to you by
What to do in the event of a medical emergency on the trail:

It's bound to happen at some point and hopefully injuries will be limited and not life threatening. While we couldn't confirm details with Netcare 911 at time of going to press, ER24 were very helpful in providing us with information.

Q: How do you get hold of emergency care?
A: dial 084 124 (ER 24) or 082911 (Netcare 911)

Q: Will they only respond if the patient has medical aid?
A: No, emergency services are not allowed to decline a primary emergency call nor are hospitals allowed to decline patients in need of emergency treatment.

Q: How will they get to me if I'm on the trail and cannot move?
A: An emergency response vehicle will be sent and if necessary, a helicopter. ER24's helicopter does not have hoist facilities and can only assist if there is a relatively flat and smooth area, 15m x 15m to land. If a hoist is required, ER24 contact a 3rd party such as Red Cross to send a helicopter.

Q: which hospital will they take me to?
A: This depends on the nature of injuries and the location and will therefore be a the discretion of the paramedics.

Please ensure that you take a cellphone when you go riding and save relevant numbers on it. Write your details on the back of your bike board and also wear some form of ID (eg ICEID, ER24 emergency bracelet or medicalert).

Members Corner

Sani2C riders needed to share lift from the airport:

Theunis is looking for 2 Sani2C tour riders to share a lift. Monday 14/05/2012 from King Shaka airport to Underberg R350/head - please contact Theunis

Another picture take by one of our younger members at the ABSA Cape Epic Prologue: (Photographer: 10 year old Erik Nielsen)

Lost and Found

Sunglasses:

Gus picked up sunglasses in the road at the parking area in Jip de Jager at the start of the trails. The owner must correctly describe the glasses and indicate when they were lost. Please contact Gus

Lost Key:

Deon lost his remote key somewhere between Nitida and Hillcrest - please contact Deon, if you found it.

Club Officer

This is the last week to apply for the position. Those interested in applying for the job, please submit a CV to info@tygerbergmtb.co.za by the 26 April 2012. Shortlisting and interviews will follow shortly thereafter.

Race / Funride / Social Calendar

Dirtopia Nightride: 27 April

Kick-off the long weekend with a fun MTB nightride on Delvera trails. Drinks at the finish, luckydraw & goodys for all and riders will be timed with number boards issued at registration. Coffee available before & afterwards – hope you can socialize with us! Date:Friday, 27 April 2012 Venue:Dirtopia Trail Centre, Delvera Farm, R44 near Stellenbosch Time:Registration from17h00, start at 18h00 Distances: Vineyard trail, (7km) climbs to just below Klapmutskoppie through the vineyards on farm roads. It also has three sections of singletrack and is suitable for all ability levels! Porcupine trail, (14km) with over 5km of technical constructed singletrack and lots of climbing and fun downhills for those up for a challenge. The trail will get a different feel when the sun has set! Cost:R50 You'll need lights for this (also for rent at Trail Centre). Better with one on your handlebar and one on your helmet.Entries will be taken on the day. For further information contact Dirtopia on 021 884 4752 / e-mail info@dirtopia.co.za

28th of April: Test ride the Velocite Flux MTB at our New Club House

Velocite Flux is a high performance alternative to modern carbon fiber hardtails 26er. Flux sacrifices nothing in the quest for absolute performance. It is the stiffest carbon fiber XC frame currently available with a geometry that encourages pure aggression. The steep seat tube places you squarely in the middle of the frame for optimal climbing position while seated. When the time comes to go back down, the class leading frame strength and stiffness will allow you to stick to your chosen line, and even take to the air if that is a faster way to the front. With the Velocite Flux, you are in control.

Come and ride our Velocite Flux on Saturday the 28th of April from 09:00 in the morning to 3 in the afternoon. You would be required to fill in a indemnity form and leave your MTB with us while you test ride our bike. Each person will be allowed a 30 to 45 min ride (depending on demand) to give other riders the chance to ride this bike as well. We will have 2 medium Velocite Flux bikes available.
You can read more of our bikes onVelocite Flux is a high performance alternative to modern carbon fiber hardtails 26er. Flux sacrifices nothing in the quest for absolute performance. It is the stiffest carbon fiber XC frame currently available with a geometry that encourages pure aggression. The steep seat tube places you squarely in the middle of the frame for optimal climbing position while seated. When the time comes to go back down, the class leading frame strength and stiffness will allow you to stick to your chosen line, and even take to the air if that is a faster way to the front. With the Velocite Flux, you are in control.

Come and ride our Velocite Flux on Saturday the 28th of April from 09:00 in the morning to 3 in the afternoon. You would be required to fill in a indemnity form and leave your MTB with us while you test ride our bike. Each person will be allowed a 30 to 45 min ride (depending on demand) to give other riders the chance to ride this bike as well. We will have 2 medium Velocite Flux bikes available.
You can read more of our bikes on www.velocite-bikes.co.za

The ride calendar has been updated to include well over 100 funrides and races in the Western and Eastern Cape for 2012, it will be expanded to include the bigger races in the other provinces. Have a look here. Most have additional information available which is accessed by clicking on the event. If there are any events or information missing, please give me a shout.

If you are receiving this newsletter from a friend, why not join the newsletter distribution list. If you think someone may want to receive this newsletter, please send them this link:
http://www.tygerbergmtb.co.za/newsletter/join-our-newsletter.html

If you have any comments, ideas, or articles, let me know, Mienke Koen
See you on a trail near here soon!
This post was posted in Newsletters
Tygerberg mtb Club Newsbrief vol 1. no.6 20120412

Posted on April 12, 2012 by James

Tygerberg Mountainbike Club

Addicted To Dirt

www.tygerbergmtb.co.za

Mission: To Provide The Best Trail Experience in The Western Cape! Newsbrief Vol.1 No.6 12 April 2012

Slowcoach Ride with Alwyn Sunday the 15th predicts cooler weather ... So how about we start at Meerendal, do a red route warm-up then hit the road to Spes Bona road and back via Wellington, Boland, Murray streets? Sunday 15th of April: 8am Approximately 42km Those regular coaches can join us for the red route at Meerendal if that is all you want to do before having breakfast at Manor house. Please email the slowcoach for more info

2nd Term Junior MTB Rides
Junior MTB rides are starting on the weekend again and remember that 2nd and 3rd term rides have different start times to the summer. Up coming rides as follows: Saturday 14 April - Meerendal 9 - 10am (ideal for beginners) Monday 16 April - Jip de Jager entrance to Majik Forest 4.30 - 5.30pm (ideal for intermediate riders) Wednesday 18 April - Jip de Jager entrance to Majik Forest 4.30 - 5.30pm (ideal for intermediate riders) For more information please contact Theresa

Club Officer (reminder) More info here : http://www.tygerbergmtb.co.za/newsletter.html Those interested in applying for the job, please submit a CV to info@tygerbergmtb.co.za by the 26 April 2012. Shortlisting and interviews will follow shortly thereafter.

Members Corner Sani2C partner I am desperately seeking a partner for the Sani2C. I am doing the race which starts on the 17th May 2012 I am an average rider which excels on the single track but is a bit slow on the uphill. I did the Vineyard race in 3h38 (last stage on the Epic). However I am a little competitive so I try not to take it too easy either. Please contact Jurgen
Walking the Epic Prologue: (Photographer and Club Member: Chris Opperman)

Protea Hotel Vineyards Estate Specials A 20% discount on full English breakfast for all members · Complimentary parking · New Bike racks (bring your own lock) Current special available till 31 May - R65 for any large pizza and a free Castle Light. Available any day of the week from 10h30 – 21h30 Sunday Lunch at R135 per person (Prokard Benefits apply). Valid every Sunday from 12h30 until 15h30. Please keep your eyes open for some new monthly rides that will start from the hotel

Calendar and Upcoming events 28th of April: Test ride the Velocite Flux MTB at our New Club House Velocite Flux is a high performance alternative to modern carbon fiber hardtails 26er. Flux sacrifices nothing in the quest for absolute performance. It is the stiffest carbon fiber XC frame currently available with a geometry that encourages pure aggression. The steep seat tube places you squarely in the middle of the frame for optimal climbing position while seated. When the time comes to go back down, the class leading frame strength and stiffness will allow you to stick to your chosen line, and even take to the air if that is a faster way to the front. With the Velocite Flux, you are in control. Come and ride our Velocite Flux on Saturday the 28th of April from 09:00 in the morning to 3 in the afternoon. You would be required to fill in a indemnity form and leave your MTB with us while you test ride our bike. Each person will be allowed a 30 to 45 min ride (depending on demand) to give other riders the chance to ride this bike as well. We will have 2 medium Velocite Flux bikes available. You can read more of our bikes on www.velocite-bikes.co.za

Remember to have a look at the calendar on the Club's website. If you have any events that you would like to include or if I have missed anything, just drop me an email with the detail.

If you have any comments or ideas for this newsbrief, let me know, Mienke Koen See you on a trail near here soon!

This post was posted in Newsletters
Newsletter Vol. 5 No.7

Posted on April 5, 2012 by James
Mission: To Provide The Best Trail Experience in The Western Cape!
Newsletter Vol. 5 No.7
05 April 2012
Club Membership

There are still a number of mini cards at the Protea Hotel Vineyards.
Please confirm your bike board number when you collect yours.

Club Officer (reminder)

The club hired a club officer on a temporary basis in order to ensure the upholding of the club’s commitments to the Absa Cape Epic.
The club would like to now canvas for any candidates for the job.
The duties will include:

Management of the operation of the Club House

Ad hoc basic maintenance of the trails

Upkeep of Trail Signage

Supervision of contractors

Canvassing of sponsors

Manage Club assets

Receive and attend to member queries

Organise Club events

Manage a petty cash facility

Attend Club Committee meetings

The annual salary will be R144 000 per annum (“cost to company”). Those interested in applying for the job, please submit a CV to info@tygerbergmtb.co.za by the 26 April 2012. Shortlisting and interviews will follow shortly thereafter.
Single Track Mind
Brought to you by
Trackstands:

The trackstand can come in handy on tight switchbacks or simply when letting other riders pass you on the trail.

Start on a gentle uphill slope and ride up it, standing and pedalling, until you’re ready to try to balance. You need just enough speed to let you level out your cranks with equal weight on each foot. Stand tall and straight with most of your weight over your extended arms, pushing down on the bars, and then roll to a stop. As the bike stops, turn the bars a little to one side – whichever feels more comfortable. This gives you a stable platform.

See how long you can stay there. Initially it may be just a split second, but try to control any wobbles, not by swinging the bars but by pushing down into them, using weight from your shoulders through your straightened arms. As soon as you feel the balance go, pedal out BEFORE you need to put a foot down. Don’t hold it too long and dab a foot on the ground, as this can become a habit and slow down your progress.

To develop further try to do this while looking ahead, rather than down. Then try it on the flat, a slight downhill with your brakes on or one-handed. But first get the basics right, and without the brakes. This way you learn to control pressure through your feet, rather than push hard against the brakes with your lead foot.

Members Corner

Sani2C partner needed:

I have a Sani2C TRAIL entry and am looking for a partner. No preference as to whether you are male or female, but ideally you will be based in the Northern Suburbs of Cape Town, so that we can train together. Failing that, the general Cape Town area would also be acceptable.
My riding level is as follows:
Cape Pioneer Trek (2011) 47 hrs 31 mins
Franschhoek Lions/ Porcupine Ridge MTB Challenge (2012) 2 hrs 45 mins
MTN Tulbach 105km (2012) 7 hrs 46 mins
Garden Route 300 (2012) 18 hrs 24 mins - Please contact Hambly Quantrill

Second-hand Bikes

I am looking for a 2^nd hand MTB for my son. He is 11 yrs old and desperately need a MTB with the normal shocks and so on. His current bike is still very basic. If there are parents wanting to upgrade their children’s MTB’s and maybe looking for someone to 2^nd hand bike off their hands please contact me, Derek Myburgh.

Research

Sports Science Institute research project:

Penny is co-ordinating a research project for Prof Tim Noakes, who needs no introduction, & Prof Andrew Bosch (world leading carbohydrate researcher in sport), both of Sports Science Institute in Cape Town. The research will examine performance on fat metabolism vs carbohydrate metabolism in cyclists & runners.The research, which will be conducted over a few months, will cover both endurance & speed, & each athlete will be tested on both fats & carbohydrates. Workshops sponsored by the research fund, will be held with the profs & dietician, Rael Koping. By the end of the research each participant will know if they perform better on carbs or fats.
Anyone interested in participating can contact Penny Olivier

Upcoming Events at Hillcrest

VANFOKKINGTASTIES – ACOUSTIC ALBUM LAUNCH
DATE: 26 April 2012
TIME: 5 pm
TICKET SALES AND PRICE: Webtickets price R150
INFORMATION: – (from official face book page)

Vier van Suid-Afrika se bekenste bands kom bymekaar om die VanFokKingTasties Akoestiese Album te lewer. Van Coke Kartel, Fokofpolisiekar, aKING en Die Heuwels Fantasties verwerk almal twee van hul ouer gunstelinge na akoestiese weergawes en stel dan elk ook ‘n nuwe liedjie bekend op die album.

Die album sal einde April of begin Mei deur Supra Familias vrygestel word. Die manne sal die pad slaan om die album bekend te stel. VanFokKingTasties bied ‘n rare geleentheid vir die hele gesin om die album en optredes saam te geniet.

aKING, Die Heuwels Fantasties en Van Coke Kartel is juis onderskeidelik hierdie jaar vir SAMA Toekennings genomineer. aKING en Van Coke Kartel is genomineer in die ‘Beste Rock Album’ kategorie. Die Heuwels Fantasties is genomineer in die ‘Beste Alternatiewe Album’ kategorie.

LAUNCHING LANGARM @ THE QUARRY

R60 a ticket – booking for tables of 10

DJ

Cash bar

Lucky draw

Date 28th April

Time 7-12

ROCKING FOR RHINOS – More info on Face book page – Rocking for Rhinos
Date: 5 May
Time: 10am-11pm
Venue: Hillcrest Estate
Ticket cost: R 100 Donation to the fund
Rocking for Rhinos:
Tickets on sale soon at Computicket; R100 (donation)

443 Rhinos m killed in South Africa in 2011 alone, far surpassing the already depressing total of 333 in 2010. This year, 150 rhinos have already been poached. Rhinos are on the verge of extinction... with some subspecies already extinct. The end of 2011 saw an increase in awareness for this more than worthy cause, sadly it took the deaths of 443 rhinos for the country to sit up and take notice.

With that in mind the “Rocking for Rhinos” team wants to create awareness, and to raise funds for the Higgins project by hosting a wine and art auction on the 4th of May at the Vineyards Estate, Protea Hotel followed by a concert at Hillcrest Wine Estate on the 5th of May for about 2000 people.
The auction is aimed at the corporate sector and collectors with only exclusive and rare wines available for bidding.

The concert is aimed at everyone with a heart and all proceeds thereof will go to the rehabilitation of a male rhino named Higgins. Higgins lost 80% of his eyesight in a poaching attack at Fairy Glen Reserve near Cape Town.
The event will be named “Rocking For Rhinos” and the team has pledged to make it an annual event with a different recipient each year.

Race / Funride / Social Calendar

Where will you be riding over Easter weekend?
Please send some interesting or some not-so-interesting ride reports to the Editor.
In the mean-time read about a mtb route from MapStudio's Top MTB Trails

Oestervanger MTB Route
Region: Breede River Valley
Closest Town: Robertson
Trail Destination: Riviersonderend Mountains

Route Description:
The Leopard's Bane circular across-country (not be be confused with XC) trail winds via vineyard and natural fynbos, mostly along jeep track. The variety of track conditions (hard pack, rocky stretches, and sandy patches) will challenge the enthusiastic rider. A sandy section of road leads to 'Boskloof', the latter offering some technical riding. Dawid-se-pad is a return ride with three shortish, steep gradients, along an otherwise gently rolling slope - save some stamina for these ascents. Loose stones may make fast downhills tricky, so take care on the descents.

Grading: Easy
Duration: 90 minutes to 2 hours
Configuration:Circular (25km) or return (15km)
Start Point: Oestervanger Guesthouse
Terrain: Gravel road, jeep track and dual track, hard pack with sand
Map: Available at Guesthouse
Cell Reception: None

Drive safe, ride safe and keep the rubber side down

The ride calendar has been updated to include well over 100 funrides and races in the Western and Eastern Cape for 2012, it will be expanded to include the bigger races in the other provinces. Have a look here. Most have additional information available which is accessed by clicking on the event. If there are any events or information missing, please give me a shout.

If you are receiving this newsletter from a friend, why not join the newsletter distribution list. If you think someone may want to receive this newsletter, please send them this link:
http://www.tygerbergmtb.co.za/newsletter/join-our-newsletter.html

If you have any comments, ideas, or articles, let me know, Mienke Koen
See you on a trail near here soon!
This post was posted in Newsletters
Newsbrief Vol.1 No.5 29 March 2012

Posted on March 30, 2012 by James
Tygerberg Mountainbike Club

Addicted To Dirt

www.tygerbergmtb.co.za
Mission: To Provide The Best Trail Experience in The Western Cape!
Newsbrief Vol.1 No.5
29 March 2012
Club House in Operation!
As from Saturday 31 March 2012 the Tygerberg MTB Club house will be open for business on the following days and times:
Saturday 07h30 – 10h30
Wednesday 10h00 – 15h00 & 17h00 – 21h00
The initial services on offer will be:

Secure parking for the start of your ride

Day Permit sales

Membership information and application forms

Maps of the trails

Ablution Facilities

A place to rest after a hard ride!
Club Evening and Night Ride
A club social evening will be held on Wednesday 4 April 2012 at the club house combined with a night ride on the trails. Wors rolls at a minimal cost and a cash bar will be available. Meet at the club house at 18h30 for the night ride. Stargazers are most welcome!

Club Officer
The club hired a club officer on a temporary basis in order to ensure the upholding of the club’s commitments to the Absa Cape Epic.
The club would like to now canvas for any candidates for the job.
The duties will include:
- Management of the operation of the Club House
- Ad hoc basic maintenance of the trails
- Upkeep of Trail Signage
- Supervision of contractors
- Canvassing of sponsors
- Manage Club assets
- Receive and attend to member queries
- Organise Club events
- Manage a petty cash facility
- Attend Club Committee meetings
The annual salary will be R144 000 per annum (“cost to company”). Those interested in applying for the job, please submit a CV to info@tygerbergmtb.co.za by the 26 April 2012. Shortlisting and interviews will follow shortly thereafter.

ABSA Cape Epic Feedback
We all know that the Epic has crossed our trails the past weekend, what everyone might not know is the enormous amount of work that was actually done pre-epic. This includes coordinating with the organizers, continuous talks on trails and assisting with making sure that on the day everything went smoothly. Thank you to the whole committee and especially to Matthew in working closely with the race organizers.
Those of you that have been out on the trails will also notice that a lot of work was done on our trails pre-epic. This includes areas at Meerendal, Hillcrest and Kliprug.
Some general maintenance done pre-epic: Repairs on all crossings and bridges, surface cleaning and clearing and compacting of corners and bends. Now all we need is some rain as we all know the trail surfaces are very hard and dusty making work on trails quite difficult at this time.
Further on special request from the Epic organizers we have cleared a track next to the Dorstberg road leading up the mountain. This track continues as you would come down the singletrack. This is just a temporary surface and although a lot of work was done to clear this, please do not continue to use it. A bridge was also built next to the lawn area to accommodate the start/finish for the Epic.
All signage at the spectator viewpoints (200 signs) was put up by Matthew and special thanks to him for making it possible for spectators to know exactly from where they could get the best views during the prologue.
All of this was done by the Tygerberg Mountain Bike Club for the Epic.
We have received fantastic reviews and especially the international riders, they said that we have some of the most fantastic trails that they have ever seen. We should be proud of our trails and make sure that as club members we take care that our trails and ensure that they are not abused by non members.
Please respect trails that have been closed as these are closed for either safety reasons or are not part of our trail layout currently.

Single Track Mind
River Crossings:
Some of us will be riding the Vigne a Vigne ride at Lourensford this weekend and with wet weather forecast, some of the streams are bound to be filling up. So how do you decide between portage or riding the crossing?
Under these circumstances, a portage would be your safest option:
* water level deeper than your BB (bottom bracket)
* possibility of large rocks or holes beneath the water line
* the person in front of you goes swimming after an unsuccessful attempt

So it goes without saying that a shallow crossing can easily be ridden.
Approach the water keeping in mind the line you need to take to get out of the stream, straight is best. Pick up some speed so you have sufficient momentum to carry you as far as possible in the attack position (this keeps your body weight far enough back that you can negotiate unforeseen obstacles in the water). If the bank on the far side is steep or traction is limited, make sure you're in a low enough gear before you get bogged down.

Just remember that water can seep into your bb / hubs which can end up washing out grease and causing corrosion. If in doubt, rather grease them up again which your LBS (local bike shop) can assist you with.

Night Rides
Please note that riding at night on the club trails (this does not include Majik Forest) are not allowed. Organised night rides are arranged with the permission of the landowners and are advertised in the club newsletter, the Facebook group or on the club website calendar.

Lost and found
A pair of prescription sunglasses were found on Contermanskloof - Please contact Johann Dreyer 083 459 6996
On Saturday the 24th, a bicycle pump was found at the bottom of The Stairway To Heaven. Please contact, Alan 021-9135012
Excuse of the Week
The board is too big and creates wind resistance!

Calendar
Remember to have a look at the calendar on the Club's website. If you have any events that you would like to include or if I have missed anything, just drop me an email with the detail.

If you have any comments or ideas for this newsbrief, let me know, Mienke Koen
See you on a trail near here soon!
This post was posted in Newsletters

Newsletter Vol. 5 No.5 08/03/2012

Posted on March 8, 2012 by James

Tygerberg Mountainbike Club

Addicted To Dirt

www.tygerbergmtb.co.za

Mission: To Provide The Best Trail Experience in The Western Cape!
Newsletter Vol. 5 No.5
08 March 2012

Membership Cards
The new membership mini-cards are available at the Protea Hotel Vineyards for collection. Please ensure you know what your bike-board number is before collection.
New Members - when collecting your bike board, please open the envelope and check if the membership card is included in your pack, if not you can collect it while you are at the hotel.
Please note that the membership card is not a permit to ride the trails. If you are stopped by a marshal / committee member on our trails and do not have a bike board, you will have to pay the daily permit.

Bike Boards / Permits
Please take note that additional policing of the trails will be taking place. Without a daily permit or a club bike board on your handle bars you will be asked to purchase a permit (R30) or to stay off the private property to which the club has exclusive rights for mountain biking.

Trail Maintenance
The damaged bridge at Kliprug was repaired last week. It can now be crossed safely when you get there.
All bridges at Meerendal was also inspected and repaired and you should now find no loose or broken planks when riding these trails.
Safety of riders will always be a priority thus some work along Racecourse road leading down towards Altydgedacht was done. Realising that this is a dangerous stretch as the actual road offers either no or very little shoulder to cycle on. Please look out for the path next to and behind the trees that has been cleaned and created for your safety. The sooner it is used the better it will become along this road.
Road1

Epic Prologue
The ABSA Cape Epic Prologue will be held on our trails on Sunday 25 March 2012. The trails will be closed for the day. Access will be granted for spectators.
From the 2012 Ride Guide
The ninth edition of the race kicks off with a 27-kilometre prologue at Meerendal Wine Estate in the Durbanville Wine Valley - the new mountainbiking Mecca on Cape Town's doorstep. The start is at the historic Meerendal Wine Estate. Far from just a ceremonial stroll, it'll be flat out from the start ramp heading through Contermanskloof, Kliprug, Hillcrest and Nitida. The route takes riders through protected Renosterveld, railing the sublime single track created by the Tygerberg Mountain Bike Club. In the final push on the lung-bursting climb up to the Meerendal mountain top finish - a first in the history of the Absa Cape Epic, riders will be looking to spectators lining the trail for support, with magnificent views of Table Mountain and Table Bay in the background. Teams will open up the throttles for a good seeding at the start in Robertson for stage 1.
Epic Prologue Profile

27 km - 900 m total climb
Spectator Access Venues
Meerendal
There will be a secure Bike Park so you can ride your bike to Meerendal and check your bike in to the park. There will be route open to the top of the Staircase to Heaven where you will be able to ride to to watch the contestants. From there you will be able to walk to the top of Dorstberg to view the finish. The contestants will be using the single track to return to the start. The road past Meerendal will be completely closed from 08h00 till 12h00 with stop and go for a period before and after. The Meerendal Market Day will also take place this day.

Contermanskloof
Further spectator viewing will be allowed on Contermanskloof, you can ride your bike up the route from the Bike Shed to view the contestants come up the green corridor and then do some of the Contermanskloof single track. Parking will be available at the day permit parking and at the Bike Shed.

Hillcrest
Plenty of parking will be made available at Hillcrest with the restuarant opening early for that cup of coffee to keep you going! A band will be on site to provide some music while you watch the contestants going past and watching the tv broadcast on the TV's that will be setup. You can also ride or walk up to view the contestants doing the various sections of the Hillcrest trails. Access has been granted via the Bloemendal Restuarant cement road (for this day only) so that you can get to the reservoir at the top of the rocky climb.

Nitida
There will also be plenty of parking at Nitida where another band will entertain the spectators. There will be activities for the whole family so bring them all along to enjoy the day. An announcer as well as TV's will also keep you up to date with the happenings in the race.

Win 1 of 10 limited entries into the Absa Cape Epic’s Vigne-a-Vigne
On 1st April the Absa Cape Epic culminates in a fantastic day for all at Lourensford.

Start your day with the scenic 29 km mountain bike meander or for the brave of heart, a 56km brute.
Enjoy the carnival atmosphere as the Epic riders finish the gruelling race which started on the Tygerberg Trails 7 days earlier.
Lots of entertainment during the day - headlined by Freshly Ground.
Answer this one simple question (Club members only):
Which venues will have spectator access from where you can watch the Absa Cape Epic Prologue?
Email your answers and bike board number to: tmtbcchair@gmail.com. Competition closes at midnight on Sunday 11 March 2012.

RE:CM 100MILER RAISES FUNDS FOR MTB TRAILS
South Africa’s top mountain bikers and marathon junkies will once again be seen testing their endurance levels during this awe-inspiring ultra mountain bike marathon taking place in the Swartland district. RE:CM, a fund management company based in Cape Town has come on board as title sponsor of the event, now in its 4th year!
According to Meurant Botha, director of Amarider, the 100 Miler was created to become a primary fundraiser for the organisation. Amarider is a recreational trails advocacy group focused on improving trail opportunities on the African continent and proceeds of the event are channeled directly to trail projects. Amarider is currently focused on improving trail construction standards around the country and assist various mountain bike clubs to ensure that their trails are safe and environmentally sustainable.
For riders keen to get a taste of endurance riding, the event offers a shorter option of 80km, starting at the half way mark.
The 160km route is divided into three sections of approximately 55km with two compulsory timing checkpoints. The format of the race creates perfect vantage points for spectators and supporters. While the competition is based on solo riders completing the entire course, these riders can form 4-man teams with the team results based on the 4th rider crossing the line, thereby encouraging teamwork and cameraderie.
Finishing the RE:CM 100 Miler within the allotted 10h30min cutoff time is one of the most challenging endurance tests on the South African mountain bike calendar.
DATE: Saturday, 26 May 2012
VENUE: Malmesbury TIME: 07h30
DISTANCE: 160km Shorter option of 80km
The event takes pre-entries only - visit www.amarider.co.za or for more information phone the Amarider office at 021 8844 752.

MTB World Cup Explained
For those who are not familiar with the cycling world, what does the 2012 RockyRoads UCI MTB World Cup Pietermaritzburg mean?

Accommodation Requested
Can anyone assist?
I am trying to assist an amazing bunch of bikers in Rwanda. Over the past 5 years or so some extraordinary people have developed an international cycling team from nothing... they have now qualified (individual) for London 2012..... really inspirational stuff.
One of the riders who has finished competing is training in massage & yoga and will be a huge asset to the team. He is invited to a clinic near Durbaville to further his training. Thing is I am too far (s suburbs) for him to commute (by bike) so I am looking for any accommodation for around 6 weeks from mid March. Perhaps you know of somebody who would be prepared to offer a room to help this great organisation....
I would love to hear from you & can supply further info to anybody who may be interested
Tara Baum

Kenridge Area
There will be a get together evening hosted by the ward councillor and KHRPA. The future of the Kenridge area and public open spaces (park areas including Majik Forest?) will be discussed. Monday 12 March 2012 at 18h30 at the Duck Pond Park opposite the garage. Wors rolls and salads will be served. RSVP Andrea Crous on or before 8 March 2012 / sms 082 218 3383

Single Track Mind
Brought to you by

Top tips for having an enjoyable ride
Make Sure the Chain is Properly Lubed – Before every ride, you need to check the chain to make sure it has the proper lubrication. This is especially important during the drier months when dust eats away at components and lube.
Check Your Cables – Do a once over of all of you cable driven components. This may include brakes, derailleur or adjustable seat post cables. Make sure they are not frayed or binding. If you find a frayed cable, replace it right away. A frayed cable will cause numerous shifting and braking issues that can become dangerous or ride ending.
Check Chain Ring and Cassette Teeth – Bent or excessively worn (shark toothed) teeth on your chain ring and cassette can degrade components and break chains. Bent or worn components should be replaced. In this case, it is recommended that you replace all drivetrain components at once to insure proper operation. This includes the cassette, chain and chain rings. Over time, these components “wear into” each other, so when you add a new component into the mix without replacing the others…it is likely that it will not play nice causing shifting / drivetrain issues.
Check Tyre Pressure – Make sure you have your tyre pressure correct before every ride. Over inflated tyres are going to make for a rough and bouncy ride and under inflation increases the chances of pinch flatting.
Double Check Other Grease Locations – Take a good once over of the entire bike. Areas like your seatpost, pivots, etc. require lubrication to function properly and quietly. Make sure you have properly greased these areas so that you do not have to listen to constant squeaking throughout the ride. The most common areas for squeaking are the bottom bracket, pivots and seatpost. These little annoyances can really ruin a ride.
Inspect the Tyres – The tyres on your bike are your only contact with the ground. That makes them one of the most important components on the bike. Check the tyres to make sure there is no cracking, dry rotting or excessive wear. Old tyres can cause your bike to wash out and not handle correctly. Excessively worn tyres can also rip and come off the rim while riding.
Look Over the Frame – Every frame has stress points. Take a look over the entire frame and make sure there are no cracks or stress marks in the tubing or rockers. If you find any, do not ride the bike.
Clean Your Bike! – Dirt is like sandpaper to everything it touches…especially moving components. It will cause premature wear and damages components. Clean your bike on a regular basis to make sure it continues to run smoothly. After cleaning…re-lube all components and get ready to make it dirty again! Rhino

Health and Nutrition
There are many factors which fall out of our control when it comes to succeeding in cycling and nutrition is one of the factors which is most overlooked and is well within our ability to control. Bad eating habits invariably lead to excess weight in the form of body fat and a reduced power-to-weight ratio. This is the amount of power you are able to produce per kilogram of body weight. It stands to reason that the less you weigh, the lower the gravitational pull, and the less the effort required to propel you up the hill.

Follow the following basic rules to make good choices and reduce the weight:
1 Plan your meals ahead of time- each person has their own calorie needs – don’t eat more just because everybody else is.
2 Eat at least 3 meals and 2 snacks a day – don’t allow yourself to ever become very hungry – this can easily result in overeating. Small meals will keep the metabolism firing all day
3 Watch the alcohol intake – there are too many empty calories
4 Don’t eat the same amount if you have cut back on your training. Your body does not require as many calories
5 Don’t eat too much during recovery. Be careful not to allow the calories consumed to exceed the amount spent. Substitute you recovery foods for the normal intake.
6 Add a protein to all your meals and snacks – this will allow the body to feel full for longer and will slow down the absorption of the carbohydrates and prevent the instant storing of excess carbohydrates as body fat
7 Don’t supersize – stick to more small meals
8 Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning ( before the tea or coffee) to remove toxins stored in the liver and kidney overnight and start the metabolism for the day
9 Carry a 500ml bottle of water with you at all times. Finish this every 3 hours or empty it and start again. Most people underestimate the amount of water they drink unless it is measured.
10 Add a tablespoon of OAT BRAN to your breakfast meal or smoothie – this soluble fibre will help to reduce cholesterol and eliminate fat from the body.

Know your Numbers
WHAT IS YOUR WAIST MEASUREMENT?
Waist circumference is now believed to be a much more accurate measure of future health risk than BMI alone. Carrying too much fat around your middle is associated with an increased risk of developing heart disease and diabetes. It's also associated with a greater risk of high cholesterol levels which, in turn, increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
A waist circumference greater than 80cm for women and 94cm for men increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases - for example, heart attacks and stroke - and diabetes. The greatest risk is for women with a waist measurement of more than 88cm and men with a waist measurement of more than 102cm.

HOW STRONG IS YOUR MIDDLE BODY?
Sit Up Test Situps

Abdominal muscle strength and endurance is important for core stability and back support. This sit up test measures the strength and endurance of the abdominals and hip-flexor muscles. How many sit-ups can you do in 1 minute? Count how many you can do in one minute and then check the chart below for your rating. Repat this test every month to check on your progress.
Starting Position: Lie on a carpeted or cushioned floor with your knees bent at approximately right angles, with feet flat on the ground. Your hands should be resting on your thighs. Squeeze your stomach, push your back flat and raise high enough for your hands to slide along your thighs to touch the tops of your knees. Don't pull with you neck or head and keep your lower back on the floor. Then return to the starting position.

Age	18-25		26-35		36-45
	male	female	male	female	male	female
Excellent	>49	>43	>45	>39	>41	>33
Good	44-49	37-43	40-45	33-39	35-41	27-33
Above average	39-43	33-36	35-39	29-32	30-34	23-26
Average	35-38	29-32	31-34	25-28	27-29	19-22
Below Average	31-34	25-28	29-30	21-24	23-26	15-18
Poor	25-30	18-24	22-28	13-20	17-22	14-Jul
Very Poor	<25	<18	<22	<13	<17	<7
Age	46-55		56-65		65+
	male	female	male	female	male	female
Excellent	>35	>27	>31	>24	>28	>23
Good	29-35	22-27	25-31	18-24	22-28	17-23
Above average	25-28	18-21	21-24	13-17	19-21	14-16
Average	22-24	14-17	17-20	12-Oct	15-18	13-Nov
Below Average	18-21	13-Oct	13-16	9-Jul	14-Nov	10-May
Poor	13-17	9-May	12-Sep	6-Mar	10-Jul	4-Feb
Very Poor	<13	<5	<9	<3	<7	<2

Race / Funride / Social Calendar
The ride calendar has been updated to include well over 100 funrides and races in the Western and Eastern Cape for 2012, it will be expanded to include the bigger races in the other provinces. Have a look here. Most have additional information available which is accessed by clicking on the event. If there are any events or information missing, please give me a shout.

If you are receiving this newsletter from a friend, why not join the newsletter distribution list. If you think someone may want to receive this newsletter, please send them this link:
http://www.tygerbergmtb.co.za/newsletter/join-our-newsletter.html

If you have any comments, ideas, or articles, let me know, Rob Griffin
See you on a trail near here soon!

This post was posted in Newsletters

Newsletter 23/02/2012

Posted on February 24, 2012 by James

Tygerberg Mountainbike Club

Addicted To Dirt

www.tygerbergmtb.co.za

Mission: To Provide The Best Trail Experience in The Western Cape!
Newsletter Vol. 5 No.4
23 February 2012

Memberships
Membership count = 1300 for 2012
There have been a number of requests for second bike boards. Unfortunately the club has a policy of "No second bike boards to members".
We realise that many of you have second or even third bikes and it is a hassle switching your bike board from the one bike to the other, BUT unfortunately there are dishonest members who will hand out their second boards to friends who are not club members.
We are investigating other solutions for a second bike board.
If you have any ideas please email Mienke at mienke.tygerbergmtb@gmail.com

A reminder to all members to renew their memberships for 2012. Your 2011 boards will not be valid after 31/01/2012. We will start policing the trails from February onwards. If you have not received an email from Mienke regarding the collection of your board, there might have been a problem with your payment.
Please check AND/OR do an EFT and send the proof of payment to mienke.tygerbergmtb@gmail.com
Tygerberg MTB Club
FNB Cheque account
Branch Code: 201410
Account number: 6221 3902 986

Main Member = R525
Spouse = R350
Child dependents R150 each
Family Membership R1000 (Main member + spouse+ 3 children)
Pensioners or Students =R250 (must have a valid student card)
All the above membership options include an annual permit to ride the trails on Contermans Kloof.
Cape Epic Permit = R275
The permits are valid from now until 25 March 2012 & cover the complete Contermanskloof and Tygerberg Mtb Club trails of Contermanskloof, Meerendal, Hillcrest, Nitida and Kliprug.
The price is R275 each permit. These permits are only for entrants to the 2012 ABSA Cape Epic.

Group Rides & Ride Buddies
Looking for a riding buddy or a group ride – please check out our Facebook page as rides are announced here on a regular basis.

Meerendal Trails
Please note that the sections of the Meerendal trails that were connected temporarily for the 99'er are not for permanent use.

Trail Maintenance
Further trail maintenance has started at Meerendal and will expand to the other trails in due course. Majik Forest will be the last on the list as Council approval is required before work is done.

CyclingSA Adopts Amended Constitution
At a special congress held at SASCOC House in Oaklands, Gauteng on Saturday 18 February 2012, Cycling South Africa’s affiliates unanimously adopted an amended constitution as endorsed by SASCOC.
Mr. Raymond Hack, legal adviser for SASCOC, spoke in detail explaining the amended constitution and the dates by which this needed to be adopted.
Mr. Hack stressed that SASCOC is looking for development and growth in sport in South Africa. It will be up to the nine provinces to run each discipline, and this is a great step forward in terms of developing certain disciplines in areas where they might not currently be active.
Where facilities are not currently in place to develop certain disciplines, Sport and Recreation SA will assist in establishing facilities in these provinces.
CyclingSA sees this as a positive step for cycling. It brings CyclingSA in line with the policies set out by SASCOC. The sport will now be governed by the nine geo-political provinces, plus there will be a rider representative, making up the 10th member. The appointment of the rider affiliate is an exciting development as it gives the riders an active position in the management of the sport.
All provinces have until the end of December 2012 to amalgamate their sub structures into single provincial structures.
The constitution as endorsed by SASCOC is currently being adopted by ALL the sporting codes, not just cycling. Our constitution will be effective immediately.
There will be no changes to the events that are scheduled for 2012.
As from 1 January 2013, the following will apply:
1. All cycling events will have to be sanctioned by CyclingSA via the provincial affiliates. This is to ensure that all events are run in a safe environment with all the necessary measures in place, such as traffic regulations and safety aspects.
2. All events seeking TV coverage will have to be endorsed by CyclingSA
CyclingSA prides itself in being one of the first federations to embrace this new constitution, which is in line with transformation and development objectives.
Mr. Raymond Hack concluded the meeting, congratulating CyclingSA on adopting the constitution, and he showed support to the federation for the way forward.

Message from PPA and Response from CSA
PPA: It too comes as a shock to us that the word being bandied about is that PPA has disaffiliated. Nowhere has PPA announced this or contemplated it. In terms of the present constitution, PPA is still an affiliate, we have not resigned. The misunderstanding by all may be the fact that David Bellairs has resigned, not PPA.

CSA: We still view PPA as a fully-fledged member of Cycling SA.

Member Needs Our Help
I am yet another sportsman whom has been diagnosed with MND (motor neuron disease). I went from doing the Trans Baviaans last year to almost not being able to climb stairs today. As you can imagine, being a huge mtbiker it has made a huge impact in my life.
With the disease there are unfortunately huge medical bills and lifestyle changes. Most treatments are experimental so the medical aids won’t pay for anything and according to Western medicine, there is no cure.
Specialized with Cycles Direct has donated a mtb to raffle in order to help me raise funds.
It is a brand new 2012 Specialized Epic Comp 29er worth R32 500 and tickets sell at R100 each.
I hope you can help to spread the word for me.
The bike can be viewed and tickets bought at Cycles Direct or from a fellow member, Darryl Hunt. He can be contacted by email
If you would like any more information, please let me know.
Kind regards
Trix Thompson

Dirty Bike?

The muddy season is about to start with loads of exciting MTB events. Don’t bother to use your own hose and water, just bring your bike to Shell Fairview (18 Malmesbury Road, Welgelegen). They’ll gladly make it their business to ensure that your next ride is mud-free. All Tygerberg Mountain Bike members are welcome to make use of their FREE MTB spray-down service. No obligations, no strings, and no mud!

The 2012 Resolution Health Ride the Rhino
The Resolution Health Ride the Rhino MTB race starts at the Langebaan Country Estate and ends at Nitida Wine Estate in Durbanville.
3 Days / 5 to 7 October 2012
West Coast / Flowers / Family / Fun / School Holidays
Black Rhino: Team and Solo's 250 km / 4000m+ climb / Fully Supported and Own Accommodation
White Rhino: Still testing for interest - email Heidi Eloff if you are.
Junior Rhino: Only Teams / Under 18 years, 45 to 50 km per day or closest water point
With the conservation of the Renosterveld in mind, the race will always be capped – and that’s the reason why you should enter SOON – no queues for homemade food and hot showers like in so many of the other big MTB races!
OK, there are one or two other reasons to convince you to add this event to your 2012 race calendar, that’s if you haven’t heard it through the grapevine yet:
A challenging but beautiful route with the West Coast in full bloom;
Race garment plus Resolution Health Ride the Rhino shirt on last day;
Real local home made meals (All Inclusive);
The best water holes by Darling Dairies (bottled ice water and juices and eats);
Wine holes along the route for brave who want to UP the antioxidants;
Local hospitality and entertainment and happy hour with free drinks every day and
Exciting goody bag and daily prizes (for winning and lucky draws).
You can enter now on www.ridetherhino.co.za

CSA News
SOCIAL MEDIA INCORPORATED into CYCLINGSA’s COMMUNICATION:
Cycling South Africa is reaching their member’s on the social media platform over and above communication that is regularly released onto the Cycling South Africa website. We encourage our members to keep their ears close to the ground when it comes to the rumblings and rumours from the governing body of cycling in South Africa:
LIKE US on Facebook and/or FOLLOW US on Twitter.
Facebook: Cycling SA
Twitter: @Cycling_SA http://twitter.com/#!/Cycling_SA

Single Track Mind
Brought to you by
Night Riding: (seeing that daylight hours are diminishing)
Buy the right light:
LED lights give you the best light and best battery life and a decent unit will cost about R1000 +. Rear flashing red LED's are considerably cheaper and are imperative if you're going to be anywhere near a road.
Set Your Light Right:
Ideally, combine a helmet-mounted as well as a bar-mounted light with a broad beam (if you can afford only one, a helmet-mounted light is better because it shines where you are looking).
Aim your light right:
Look 2-3m ahead, depending on the trail. You will have little peripheral vision so you can't afford to look right in front of your wheel. Start off riding trails which you're familiar with as the artificial light throws shadows over obstacles which takes some getting used to (that whispy little bush you normally ride through will suddenly look impenetrable).
Try to ride in a group such as the Thursday evening Meerendal rides (7pm). Ensure you have sufficient battery power and remember that the strong beam settings will drain your battery so use the dimmer settings where possible.
Take a few minutes to stop and switch your light off - the panoramic views from the top of Dorstberg at night are truly special.

Why did God make Dubbelties…?
…we ask as we use what feels like the 100th CO2 bomb of the summer season.

The Dubbeltjie (aka devil’s thorn, duiweltjie) or Tribulus zeyheri is the reason why Stans, Sludge and tubeless setups are a major source of revenue for local bike shops. The thorns protrude in all angles making them extremely efficient at embedding themselves in bicycle tires. Our trails are so full of them at the moment (especially near vineyards) that in no time your sleek XC tires will look like they have the tread pattern of a knobbly wet weather tire.
“So I lost count at 50 thorns in my front tire and haven’t started on the back one, what do I do?”
Unless you wish to shower yourself with sealant and start on those CO2 bombs again, your best bet is to leave them where they are until after your ride. When removing them, turn the wheel so that the puncture is at the bottom and the sealant can plug the hole. If the hole is too big, plug them.
“I have sealant in my tubes but it doesn’t appear to be working properly and my tires are still puncturing”.
Tubeless (tubeless tires on either tubeless rims or a tubeless conversion on normal rims) is ultimately the way to go. When riding with tubes, the thorn impales both tire and tube and the movement between tire and tube causes the thorn to continuously re-open the hole. Also remember to regularly check that you have sufficient sealant as it does dry up.

Interesting but useless facts regarding Dubbeltjies:
It has been reported that the seeds or nutlets have been used in homicidal weapons in southern Africa; murderers smear them with the poisonous juice of Acokanthera venenata and put them where victims are likely to step.
Some body builders use T. terrestris as post cycle therapy after they have completed an anabolic-steroid cycle, they use it under the assumption that it will restore the body's natural testosterone levels. The extract is claimed to increase the body's natural testosterone levels and thereby improve male sexual performance and help build muscle. However, T. terrestris has consistently failed to increase testosterone levels in controlled studies. It has also failed to demonstrate strength-enhancing properties - a finding that might disprove the myth that tribulus terrestris is an anabolic steroid.

Single Speed World Champs
Entries have opened for the Single Speed World Champs (here in SA!!).
www.sswc2012.co.za

If you are receiving this newsletter from a friend, why not join the newsletter distribution list. If you think someone may want to receive this newsletter, please send them this link:
http://www.tygerbergmtb.co.za/newsletter/join-our-newsletter.html

If you have any comments, ideas, or articles, let me know, Rob Griffin
See you on a trail near here soon!

This post was posted in Newsletters

Newsletters

2nd Term Junior MTB Rides