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Press Release: The 2010 Big INDUNA mountainbike date is set 29 MAY 2010 The date is set for the 2010 Big Induna mountainbike classic! With the 2010 events calendar squashed and squeezed and the exciting soccer world cup entering African soil in June, planning your MTB calendar will be crucial. The Big Induna fits in perfectly as one of the last races before the international tourists and soccer fans flood the local accommodation, which according to the critics will be scarce during the months of the world cup. Be sure to find out more about match fixtures and other info relating to the world cup. The 29th of May also marks the end of the summer racing calendar. All aspiring contestants will still enjoy a high level of fitness before the shorter days and cold evenings hamper all prospects of the best get-slim New Year’s resolution for 2010. Hazyview will then also still have that lush evergreen look that it is so renowned for. Enough small talk, Induna has got the date set for all mountain bikers new and old to test their skills against Mother Nature. We are dedicated to giving you a fresh and new experience. One that will make you fall in love with mountain biking all over again. Things to look forward to:
Don’t miss the Big Induna MTB Classic, 29 May 2010! |
The Big INDUNA MTB Classic 2010
South Africa’s Panorama Route: Dramatic Is an Understatement
It really is as good as it sounds: South Africa’s Panorama Route
brings youface to face with the majesty of the earth’s canvas of
colorful and intricate painting.
Just one of many stunning views along the Panorama Route
Winding northeast from the spectacular Drakensburg Mountains of Mpumalanga
to the northeasternend of the Great Escarpment, the Panorama Route takes in
some of Africa’s (and the world’s) mostdramatic scenery. It is also the gateway
to Kruger National Park, where you will find the Big 5, endlessspectacular views,
age-old traditions and cultures. It’s all part of an incredible adventure that
will awakenthe child within you. So buckle up as we take a quick journey
through the highlights.
Real Highs and Brilliant Light
A single day is far too short for all there is to see on the Panorama Route,
but if that’s all the time youhave, you will not be disappointed!
Along the most famous and fabulous stretch – the 33km of Blyde River Canyon,
the world’s thirdlargest – don’t miss the Three Rondavels
(giant spiral rock formations) and the Bourke’s Luck Potholes,both
a glimpse at nature’s creative forces.
Millions of years of swirling air and water have carved and shaped
the rocks here resulting in unbelievable formations.
Whitewater rafting in Blyde River Canyon
Also noteworthy is God’s Window, from which there are incomparable views of the Lowveld,
a vast blanket of plain almost a kilometre below.
Save your hunger for a stop at Harrie’s Pancakes in Graskop, or the traditional art and candy shops
in Pilgrim’s Rest. Both towns impart a sense of the old gold-mining culture that once thrived here.
Even if you’re not usually impressed by waterfalls, check out those on the way to Sabie. Not only are
they beautiful, but, when the weather’s right, you can take a moment to dangle your feet, or even swim,
in the cool mountain pools. Some are a bit off the beaten track, so pack a good pair of shoes and a picnic basket.
The picturesque Maria Shires waterfall
End your day at the Shangana Cultural Village, where you can taste traditional food,
participate in song and dance and experience the history and ways of the Shangaan people.
Outdoor Thrills
If life is your playground, or you don’t just want to be a bystander, dedicate as much
time as possible to the many adventures on offer along the Panorama Route, from mild to
wild all in one location.
Start off your day in a hot-air balloon and enjoy breathtaking views of the Sabie River Valley.
The more ambitious will thrill to an quad-biking experience that overnights at the private and
secluded Matumi Log Cabin on the bubbling Mac Mac River. A typical South African braai under starry
skies rounds out a busy day. This experience is ideal for backpackers, nature lovers and birders. The latter
will especially appreciate sightings of the Purple-crested Turaco and the elusive Nerina Trojan.
Another special experience is a visit to the Elephant Sanctuary, where you can walk hand-in-trunk with
Kasper and Kitso.
Getting It Right
A mother and daughter at the Shangana Cultural Village
* When embarking on any part of the Panorama Route, be sure to get an early start.
* It is advisable to choose a clear day in winter, as misty or cloudy weather, which is common
in summer, will prevent you from enjoying the amazing views.
* Even if it’s warm when you begin, take along some warm clothing, as the temperature changes
with the different elevations.
* Get hold of a good map.
* If possible, hire an air-conditioned car. Having your own wheels will mean that you can spend
as much time at the various sites as you want.
* The Panorama Route area is busy with thousands of children orphaned by HIV and Aids. Think
of supporting and empowering these needy children by spending time at or making a contribution to Sizabantwana.
For more information about the Panorama Route, including accommodations, tours, activities
and lots of insider tips, contact your local whl.travel connection: the team from
Induna Adventures at www.panorama-tours.travel.
Snake of the day!!!
This morning Patrick was busy preparing for a teambuilding at the zipline when he saw a “slang in die gras” (like the afrikaans saying) Unfortunately unlike the saying it is not figuratively speaking this time, but literally… The positive side of the story is that it was only a harmless common purple glossed snake that is mildly venomous but not harmful to humans. Patrick brought it to the office for us all to see after we took these pictures, he set our friendly slithering friend free again.
Hazyview / Kiepersol Letter of Appreciation
The Hazyview/Kiepersol Conservancy would like to thank you for allowing us to use your “beach” as the venue for our bi-athlon and for the loan of your netting. The day was a great success with 140 entrants, with very positive feedback from the participants.
We hope to make this an annual fund raising event for the Conservancy, and next year we hoping to have even more participants.
The funds raised will go towards anti poaching patrols, alien plant removal and water quality monitoring.
Your support and assistance that you give the Conservancy is always appreciated.
Yours sincerely
Lynda Bartholomew
Committee member Hazyview/Kieperson Conservancy
www.kiepviewconservancy.org
South African Tourism
Second phase of South Africa Tourism’s Campaign launches on BBC World News and BBC.com
On Friday 11 September 2009 South African Tourism Launches globally with BBC world and BBC.com.
Vote for one holiday that appeals to you and have a chance of winning the holiday you cvoted for.
For more information please visit:
http://www.southafricanjourneys.com
“Crazytown” Joins Induna Adventures
Induna Adventures had the privilege of hosting MPowerFM ’s teambuild on Saturday the 27th of June. Wow, what a crazy fun filled team! When they arrived, Induna literally exploded with energy, a great team spirit, enthusiasm and a passion to live the life Induna’s way!
The Activity
We had a Quad Team Development lined up for the afternoon, so we had to divide the group into four smaller more manageable groups.
Meet The Teams
Louis Team
Patrick’s Team
Shane’s Team
My Team
The GPS Team Development consist of riding quad bikes to specific locations on our farm, once there teams had to complete team development challenges. The games we played were suppose to develop team structure, communication skills, effective execution and role play.
Without MPowerFM knowing, they have all the qualities that makes up a great team. Induna Adventures showed them in a practical way how to apply their qualities more efficiently and effectively as a team. Actually they didn’t need a teambuild they needed a well deserved break.
The Party
Louis and I got invited to their karaoke party at Casa do Sol. Little did we know what to expect. We came across the first delegate as we walked down the passage, he was dressed as a incredible character, and then we saw the rest…..
It’s amazing to encounter a dynamic team in a formal environment and once you encounter them 2 hours later, faces change… abba, maya the bee, mr incredible, tellytubbies, snake… and suddenly the truth gets reveal and then one can understand why you need cartoon characters to work for a radio station… The atmosphere they create as a team, their spirit is truly South African and I must say MpowerFM truly knows how to party. Thank you MpowerFM… Until we meet again… Live the Life!!
Watch this space for more pictures!!
The Big Induna Mountain Bike Race Report & Results
By Ben Melt Swanepoel
Back on the horse!
Induna MTN marathon series #3, Hazyview
The saying goes that if you fall off a horse, get straight back on. Sage advice, but unfortunately I needed 3 months for my elbow to heal before I could ‘mount my horse’ again. As most of you know, I fell on stage 1 of this year’s Sani 2 C mtb stagerace, back in February, and broke my elbow. After 3 months out of the mountainbike racing scene due to this injury, I was pretty apprehensive at the start of the 2009 edition of the Induna Adventures marathon race on Saturday (13 June). If coming back from injury wasn’t enough, it would also be the first time that I would compete in the new ultra distance marathon format of racing. This meant the Elite men were to race over a distance of 105km on a course consisting of one 45km lap and two loops of a 30km lap.
As usual the Lowveld winter weather was just amazing and after a week of rain, we started the race in glorious sunshine. The route also didn’t disappoint and was a real mountainbiker’s delight. Jaco Lubbe and his team from Induna Adventures made sure the course was filled with singletrack, jeep track, quad trails and water crossings. One had to be extremely concentrated just to stay on the bike, never mind racing the competition! Max Knox (DCM Chrome) took it out hard from the start gaining a small lead up the first climb of the day. Behind him a group formed containing Knox’s team mate Johnny Kritzinger, MTN riders Kevin Evans, David George and Trust, as well as Garmin team members Filip Buys, Marc Bassingthwaighte and Mannie Heymans. Renay Goustra (GT) also hung on to the group for a while, but once he was dropped I was left as the only individual rider in the group as we finished the first 45km loop. At the feed zone, (45km) I stopped to fill my bottles and lost contact with the group. From there I basically time trialled on my own until I reached the finish line about 3hours later. Up front Knox had some mechanical issues and some serious chainsuck cost him a good result on the day. The MTN riders attacked the group in tandem which allowed Evans to get away up the steepest climb of the day. The Garmin riders chased and closed the gap on the following downhills, but Evans hung on for the victory ahead of Marc Bassingthwaighte and Mannie Heymans. David George was 4th with Max Knox in 5th and Kritzinger in 6th. I managed to pass Filip Buys somewhere as he also suffered some mechanical troubles, handing me 7th for my first race back. In a race of this distance and intensity you have to rely heavily on your equipment and my Shimano XTR equipped Specialized Stumpjumper did a perfect job on the day. Now that the ice is broken and I’m back in racing, I really look forward to the rest of the season. It somehow feels good to be back on this horse which can sometimes change into a young, wild colt and throw you like a drunken rodeo cowboy!
For the full race results visit the Induna Website.
World Hotel Link – Panorama Route Mpumalanga
Welcome to the Panorama Route, the gateway to the Kruger National Park and the experience of a lifetime! Here you will find the Big 5, endless spectacular views, age old traditions and cultures, and adventures that will awaken the child within you. So buckle up as we take a quick journey through the highlights.
The Kruger National Park is the gem of the lowveld! Many thousands travel from afar to see the Big 5 up close and running wild. Imagine a lion vicariously chasing down a Kudu with the sound of the African Fish Eagle echoing the African welcome cry in the background. The best option is to take a guided safari during the cooler times of the day when animals are most active, so you will have to be an early riser to get the most out of your day and be a witness of the dawn chorus of chattering birds. Your guide will be able to provide you with valuable and interesting information on the fauna and flora. Be sure to ask your guide to stop at one of the bird hides. These little hide-aways are often overlooked and underestimated, but it is a great opportunity to stretch your legs and watch a diversity of birds, such as the African Jacana, interacting with other species which form a part of the 507 different species found in the area. For the most intimate experience visit the private game reserves of the Sabie Sands, or even better, put on your hiking boots and take a guided walk through the park where an armed guide will show you how to track animals, let you smell elephant dung and taste the edible marula fruit. This is the way to experience the bush at its best!
If your passion is to witness the majesty of God’s colorful and intricate painting on Earth’s canvas, then follow the Panorama Route. There is so much to see that a single day is hardly enough, so be sure to get an early start. It is advisable to choose a clear day as misty or cloudy weather will prevent you from enjoying the amazing views. Take along some warm clothing, as the temperature changes as you travel through different altitudes.
Get hold of a good map, found at any tourist information desk, and if possible, hire an air-conditioned car. Having your own wheels will mean that you can spend as much time at the various sites as you want. God’s Window will give you magnificent views of the Lowveld and the Bourke’s Luck Potholes will give you a glimpse of nature’s creative forces as many years of swirling water currents have carved enormous holes into rocks resulting in unbelievable formations. You will also be able to view the Three Rondavels and spectacular Blyde River Canyon as the meandering roads wind through the mountains. Stopping off at Harrie’s Pancakes in Graskop for a bite is a must and visit the traditional art and candy shops in Pilgrim’s rest where you will get a feel for the old gold mining culture that once thrived here. You can even dress up in traditional clothing and have your picture taken at Pilgrim’s Place photographic studio! Don’t miss out on the various
waterfalls along the way to Sabie where you can take off your shoes and dangle your feet in the cool mountain pools or even take a swim. Some are a bit off the beaten track so pack a good pair of shoes and a picnic basket. End off your day in a special way by booking an evening at the Shangana Cultural village where you can taste traditional food, participate in song and dance and experience the history and ways of the Shangana people. You can be sure the Panorama route will not disappoint!
f life is your playground, dedicate as much time as possible to the many adventures on offer. Start off your day in a hot air balloon and enjoy breathtaking views of the Sabie River valley. Be sure to book in advance and have a few days at your disposal for this activity as it is weather dependant and bad weather may cause trips to be postponed. You will need to be up early as the unique climate of the Sabie valley means that 06:00 is the only time the balloon can launch successfully. Visit Induna Adventures where you can find anything from mild to wild all in one location. The Overnight Quad Biking Experience will take you to the private and secluded Matumi Log cabin where you can enjoy a South African braai under starry skies before falling asleep to the sound of the bubbling Mac Mac river. This experience is ideal for the backpacker and nature lover. During the day, beautiful birds such as the colorful Purple Crested Turaco and the elusive Nerina Trojan can be spotted along the way through the indigenous bush. Another special experience is visiting the Elephant sanctuary where you can interact with Kasper and Kitso, and even walk hand-in-truck with these gentle giants. You also get the opportunity to feed and ride these amazing creatures. So don’t just be a bystander, participate in the adventure and live life the best way we know how.
Our area is scattered with thousands of orphaned children as a product of HIV Aids. Help us support and empower these needy children by spending time in the life of Sizabantwana. Help the children or if you wish, actually lend a helping hand during your visit.
D
uring your travels, you will discover that a lot of South Africa’s gems are in the rural areas, where the locals speak languages such as Seswati, Shangaan or Zulu. English is more than likely their second or third language, which they didn’t pick up at a school but from the workplace or fellow workers who also speak English as a second language. The problem that arises from this situation is an obscure pronunciation of words. This can be seen as a problem or a frustration or it can ad spice to your travels as part of the uniqueness of South Africa!
Here are some examples.
The following words are all pronounced as “Bed”
- Bed – the thing you sleep on.
- Bad – something that is not good.
- Bird – an animal that flies.
The following words are pronounced as “Sleep”
- Sleep – as in your bed.
- Slip – as on a banana skin.
Other weird and wonderful South African words are:
Robot – a traffic light.
Chips – Pronounced “Cheeps” are French Fries.
Shebeen – Illegal but perfectly acceptable unlicensed bar.
And finally when you ask someone for directions they will almost, without exception, tell you – “You go straight”.
Now that you’ve had a taste of paradise, you are surely ready to book your next travel holiday. We look forward to welcoming you to our world where you can live and experience life in its purest form!
The Big Induna Mountain Bike Challenge 2009
INDUNA ADVENTURES
Induna Adventures invites every body and anybody to join us on 13 June 2009 for the annual festive Big Induna MTB race 2009. This memorable day is for racers and spectators; young and old – don’t miss out!!
We want to thank Summerfields Retreat and Rose Spa that stepped into the mountain bike scene by being the main race sponsor for the Big Induna MTB race 2009. They have opened their retreat and rose spa as a mountain bike friendly destination.
The Big Induna MTB race forms part of the prestigious MTN National Mountain bike series.
This year the famous Induna Cycle shirts are going to exceed all fashion gurus’ expectations.
Online entries and clothing orders can be made through these sites. Online entries close on the 11th of June @ midday, line entries will be available until 08:00am on race day the 13th of June. Induna Adventures website, Entrytime.com. Thank you to the already confirmed brands that shape the end product.
- Total Hazyview / Numbi Gate
- MTN National MTB series.
- Matumi Fresh Produce
- Manchel Construction
You can still be part of this marketing initiative
- E-mail: jaco@indunaadventures.com
Accommodation
It is almost time for the Big Induna MTB Race and everyone is looking for the perfect accommodation. We have made it easy with our new online accommodation booking website which lists accommodation venues in and around the Mountain Bike Race vicinity. The accommodation has been divided into budget, medium and top end categories. Visit the Induna Adventures website and go to the accommodation link to view all the possibilities or go directly to http://www.panorama-tours.travel/to ensure that your stay over this long weekend is an experience you won’t forget.
Training Camp
Mountain Bike Training Camp 22, 23 May 2009
Cost: R 1200.00
Program:
22 May
08:00 Breakfast
09:00 Adventure activities (Choose between 14 adventures!)
13:00 Lunch
14:00 45 km loop
19:00 Dinner
23 May
08:00 Breakfast
09:00 65 km loop
13:00 Lunch
14:00 Kruger Park Safari
19:00 Dinner
Accommodation: Matumi Log Cabin
The Induna Pre Ride
&
Race Profile
Induna Mountainbike Race crosses more than 20 individually owned farm properties. We are very grateful and dependent upon their participation and permission. Because of this cyclists have limited access to some of the routes that they would not have been able to use otherwise.
The Big Induna Pre-ride is the perfect opportunity to get used to the course and also get an extra chance to experience the beautiful scenery and unique terrain on offer. It’s one of those special times when riders get to interact socially and to talk about the latest trends and gear.
Be sure not to miss the Big Induna Pre-Ride on the 30th May 2009!
- Meet @ Induna Adventures @ 09:00
- Distances 45 & 75km
Changes in 2009 MTB Race Route
We will stick to the winning formula and the first 45 km of the route will be similar to the last few years but the second loop (the last 35 km of the 75 km route) will have new surprises!
- 3 Major river crossings, with newly built bridges!
- Pristine riverside bush trails will chisel out stories to be told in memory lane. (Long after race day)
- New 1.5 km single track on the edge of the Sabie river, covered with a canopy of lush indigenous trees.
Bring back the excitement of mountain biking. The scenery and terrain will make you forget about tired muscles; and it will make you remember the real reason you bought your mountain bike.
After completion of the 75km you’ll be tested in every aspect of mountain biking. Rocky sections; mud; river crossing; freaky up hills; scary down hills; sand; ruthless twists and turns, pace setting straights. Name it, it’s here.
We can’t wait to open the gates and let everybody loose in our mountain bike play park.
The fun starts on 13 June 2009 @ 8:00.
Ben Melt Swanepoel Article
‘My’ Induna
Last year (2008) I went to the Induna race well prepared and with a lot of expectation.
I had finished second in the 2007 event and was determined to make up for it by sealing a win in the race.
My relationship with the race had started years earlier when I participated in the first edition of the event. It was a small race back then with mostly locals and a few people from Johannesburg participating.
I had ridden away from the field up the first climb and for the most part of the race I only had Ryk La Cock, one of the Induna guides, along for company. True to character, Ryk was barefoot on a quad bike and shouting as much encouragement as he could while dodging rocks, sticks and mud.
The race even had a portage section where you had to cross a river in a canoe with the help of some local school boys who would ferry you across.
It was a LOT of fun and being a semi-local I really cherished the victory that came at the end of the day. My friend Francois Lourens finished 2nd that day to put the icing on the cake!
In the following years the race had grown substantially and in 2007 the race was not only part of the prestigious Mazda Drifter marathon series, but it would also be the race which would decide the South African National Marathon Championships.
JP Pearton (USN/Fritz Pienaar), Kevin Evans and I (both MTN) separated ourselves from the rest of the field early on in the race and I worked hard to keep our group away from the chasers. While racing up the last climb Kevin attacked, leaving JP and me behind. Sensing JP’s weariness I also attacked to leave him alone in third while I sped off behind my teammate.
That day Kevin crossed the line first and I had to settle for second.
In 2008 it was again Kevin and I who managed to break free from our competitors. This time around it was my turn to finish in first with my teammate in second and a MTN podium sweep was completed with David George in third.
It was great to win ‘MY’ race again and I have some fond memories of the champagne celebration that followed with the guys from Induna adventures.
The Lubbe brothers, Oudts, Ciska and the rest of the Induna team know how to put together a fun race. The route is spectacular and with race distances that cater for the whole family there is no excuse for anyone not to participate. The course is challenging enough to test experienced riders, but not too technical so as to scare off beginners.
Pre and post race facilities are also good and after cleaning off the dust in the showers there is more than enough food and drink to satisfy any craving.
Autumn in the Lowveld also means very clement weather and it’s a great time of year to take the family and head there for a mid year break.
This year I return to the race with very different expectations. Having crashed and broken my elbow at the Sani 2 C stage race in February, I have been undergoing a long and sometimes painful rehabilitation period. If all goes well I should be adequately healed in time for the Induna race this year.
Being my first race back, I don’t expect to win but sometimes just being able to start can be as meaningful as a victory itself.
Bring the family and come ‘Live the Life’ with me at this year’s edition of the Induna race!
See you there, and until then – Happy Trails!
Melt Swanepoel
Born and bred on their family farm, Jaco has always enjoyed, explored and experienced nature.
It is his aim in life to make that experience available to others.
This is evident in the excitement and contagious enthusiasm and life that he exerts in everything he does.
Jaco is an adventure man at heart and has been extensively involved in adventure activities.
He enjoys numerous activities. Jaco is a qualified biokinetiscist, as well as a guide in river rafting and abseiling.
I love running.
I love running over mountains and scrambling through vegetation.
I love my bike.
I love maps.
I love reading maps.
I love making really cunning strategic decisions that work.
I love the sound of water; and the feel of adrenalin pumping when I hear a lot of water grumbling over rapids.
I love the freedom of adventure racing where life is reduced to its primary elements; eating, sleeping and progressing forward.
There's a lot of love happening here. And this isn't that surprising... adventure is not just about sport, it's about passion.
"Four wheels move the body. Two wheels move the soul...."
