Mountain Bike experts to battle it out at Otjihavera

The 2017 edition of the FNB Otjihavera Experience MTB two-day Marathon driven by Land Rover was launched recently and will take place on 19 and 20 August.

Madri Frewer, Marketing Manager at FNB Namibia welcomed the sponsorship opportunity and said that team camaraderie and spirit was one of the many reasons why this sport is so loved. Entries for the event opened on 22 May.

“Both days will once again start and finish at the Midgard Country Estate. The Estate will turn into a real ‘race village’ that weekend, especially with the ample camping sites at Midgard that will be available for the Otjihavera weekend.

According to Stefan Bohlke, Project Manager of Otjihavera Mountain Bike Experience, last year we had a record entry of 112 teams and this year they allowed for more entries but have to unfortunately cap the number of teams at 150.

Bohlke said the event also aims at involving a much bigger group of the riders, competing in different and wider age categories. “The race is planned to be enjoyed by all Mountain Bike enthusiasts. First day racing will tackle the unforgiven mountains around Midgard, while day two will be a bit flatter, faster and more forgiving on the tired legs. Land Rover will be involved in providing back-up and medical services on the trails which is only accessible for 4×4 vehicles and Mountain bikes,” he added.

Meanwhile, self-catering camping sites will also be put into place close to the race village. “There will be slight changes to both days which would be incorporated to enhance the rider experience and the race village will also include children’s area, massage service and Windhoek Light chill zone,” said Bohlke.