How the Sani2c team repaired its MTB route after KZN's flooding

• The Sani2c route saw many bridges washed away during KwaZulu-Natal’s flooding.
• Organisers and repair teams worked overtime to repair the route for one of South Africa’s most treasured stage races.
• Riders can expect some sections of the Sani2c route to be even better than before the floods.

One of South Africa's oldest stage races is ready for its 18^th iteration, despite a route that suffered damage during the KwaZulu-Natal floods.  

Sani2c ranks as one of South Africa’s big three stage races – along with Berg&Bush and Wines2Whales. It traditionally starts the domestic three-day stage racing season, but even the most meticulous organisers can’t control the weather.

Some of the trail damage from the floods was immense. (Photo: Farmer Glen)

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An inspired ride – from mountain to coast

The Sani2c route totals 265km over three days.

It takes in some of the most splendid scenery in KwaZulu-Natal, exposing mountain bikers to terrific Underberg and forest trails. 

A deeply rewarding mountain bike ride, but not easy. Riders consume 4 500 doughnuts and 245kg of bananas, during the event.

The combination of singletrack trails and inspiring wilderness, have made the Sani2c an esteemed MTB event. (Photo: Sani2C)

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Assessing the damage – and taking action

With a route starting in the Underberg and finishing in Scottburgh, the Sani2c trails were not spared during KwaZulu-Natal’s dramatic floods.

Despite the rebuilding challenge, race organiser Glen Haw and his team have refurbished the route.

Teams worked their magic, to repair the Sani2c route. (Photo: Farmer Glen)

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Reshaping singletrack 

With a team of 100 working furiously after the floods, Haw has ensured Sani2c riders will experience all the singletrack joy this event is renowned for.

Haw and his team have ventured beyond their usual realm of trail maintenance for the event, which might make it one of the best Sani2c routes in memory.

Vernon Crookes game reserve will be a pleasure to ride through, after the Sani2c team's repair work. (Photo: Anthony Grote)

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Working deep into nature reserves 

Glen Haw and his team have ventured way beyond their usual Sani2c route preparation. 

"We have been able to assist Vernon Crookes to repair some flood damage, where we don’t usually do route maintenance as it’s a game reserve."

Being there allowed us to sort out some issues we have had on the trails in the past, so we are very pleased with how it’s looking. Mtagati Bush is looking better than it has ever been."

All the floating bridges are in place except the final one, at the finish. (Photo: Anthony Grote)

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Not the traditional finish 

The route has not escaped unscathed and Sani2c’s floating bridge finish in Scottburgh has been altered.

"Unfortunately, we can’t use the lagoon at the finish. It washed out, and we could not put the floating bridge up. Fortunately, we can go straight over the R102 as the road was washed away at a point and is closed."

Sani2c Adventure riders start their mountain bike experience on 11 May and finish on the 13^th. The Sani2c Race is scheduled for 12 May and finished on the 14^th.