Following the much-anticipated co-sponsored PSG and Capricorn Group Ride the Ridges MTB three-day stage race, the organisers, riders and sponsors agreed that the event, hosted this past weekend at Heja Lodge, was world class and exceeded all expectations.
This second annual mountain bike trail event was an epic adventure with a unique experience for the 202 riders who journeyed on the lush, green, scenic ridges surrounding Windhoek.
The demand for 2023 was so significant that entries were extended by 33%, yet the event was still sold out. Riders contributed donations as part of their entry fees to the Gondwana Care Trust, which was selected as Ride the Ridges official beneficiary. PSG and Capricorn Group handed over a cheque for N$20 000 on Saturday to the Gondwana Care Trust.
The three-day journey comprised three stages, with the first stage offering an easy introduction to the weekend. Riders departed at from 15:00 on Friday where they enjoyed breathtaking scenery from some of the highest mountains surrounding Windhoek, followed by a sundowner at 2 100m above sea level where they were rewarded with a cold beverage.
On Saturday, riders relished the second stage, which took them on one of the highest ridge lines in Namibia on a flowing jeep track, spread out over three privately owned farms and restricted access land. Finally, the last stage commenced on Sunday when riders took a shorter route through the scenic Las Vegas Namibia camp.
Water points were available on all three stages, and a Rider Village at Heja Lodge brought out the deeper essence of the Ride the Ridges event with live entertainment, a gin and beer bar, and various stalls.
Family and friends gathered early each day at Heja Lodge to cheer on the riders as they came in at the Rider Village, tired but exhilarated by the ride. Two lucky riders were surprised with Gondwana vouchers of N$10 000.
“PSG Namibia is proud to have been involved again this year in the Ride the Ridges, which was again a huge success thanks to all the riders who participated. We are honored to support events that align with our values and we will be back next year,” said Brian van Rensburg: Director at PSG Namibia.
“Capricorn Group is proud of its partnership with PSG in hosting this very unique 3-day stage race. The event definitely exceeded our expectations and it was yet another unique experience for riders.
We are looking forward to next year,” said Marlize Horn, Group Executive: Brand & Corporate Affairs at Capricorn Group.
Ride the Ridges is unlike anything riders have ever ridden in Namibia, with magnificent scenery and great hospitality. Ridge Riders walked away from this unforgettable experience richer and eager to join the next hosted event.
Patrick de Goede from event organiser, Cycletec, said the Ride the Ridges is a celebration of cycling, providing a challenging yet thrilling experience for participants, hence no winner was declared at this year’s event.