Lesotho Sky MTB Race
Lesotho Sky MTB Race
RBC has just returned from supporting the 6th edition of the awesome Lesotho Sky MTB race in the mighty Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho, where we managed the water points and bike wash for all competitors. It was a privilege to once again be a part of this 6 day event in the mountain bikers paradise of Lesotho. The ruggedness of the Lesotho mountains as well as the altitude combine to make this a race that has some of the sweetest single-track trails and riding in SA.
What’s abundantly clear to me now is that it’s imperative to prepare your body as much as you prepare your bike for this type of event, unfortunately I was unable to complete the race for the first time in 4 years due to an injury from my last race in Natal! This was very disappointing for me but it also gave me an opportunity to see the other side of the event and just how much work and planning goes into the running of a multi stage race. The team from Lesotho Sky and their volunteers did an amazing job of ensuring that the riders were well looked after in all aspects, nothing was left to chance. The medics from ER24 were top class and always on hand to assist any riders both in the camp and on the route; a necessity on this event.
Apart from the awesome trails set out by Darrel and Christian and the beautiful overnight lodges, the people of the mountain kingdom are really friendly and welcoming and a friendly smile and wave was always on hand to cheer the riders on.
This is an event not to be missed and should be on any MTB riders bucket list to do. With the race restricted to 100 riders only, this event is an opportunity to make new friends and meet up with acquaintances from past years. The end of every days ride is celebrated by all, over a complementary ice cold Maluti beer, and many story’s are shared about the days route.
This time next year I will once again make the pilgrimage to the Mountain Kingdom to participate in a week of awesome trails, clean mountain air, friends and fun – I hope to see you there!