The scenic trails of Grabouw came alive as families, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts participated in the Weekend Warrior: Grabouw event, a two-day gathering focused on mountain biking, trail running, and community engagement. With 397 participants, the event showcased the appeal of outdoor sports in the region.
Weekend Warrior is a family-oriented stage race designed to promote cycling and outdoor activities. Participants of all ages and skill levels, from young children to experienced athletes, were welcomed into a race village featuring tents, hot showers, a food court, and a relaxed Chill Zone with beanbags and music.
The event also served as a platform for supporting local education. Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing, the headline sponsor, contributed R50,000 to Grabouw High School. According to Conrad Fick, Marketing Director at Tru-Cape, the donation aims to support educational initiatives in the community. The funds will be used to transform an old laboratory into a design classroom, following last year's renovation of the school's dance studio.
"Two-A-Day, our packhouse in Grabouw, is one of the largest employers in the area," Fick explained. "This event helps to support local education and promotes tourism in the region."
Heroldt Bezuidenhout, headmaster of Grabouw High School, emphasized the importance of community support in providing educational opportunities. "We are one of the few schools — and the only one in Grabouw — that offers art as a focus area. Our partnership with Tru-Cape is crucial in creating opportunities for our learners," he said.
Despite light rain over the weekend, participants maintained high spirits. Teachers volunteered as marshals, and families participated in the popular 10 km fun ride, where children and parents crossed the finish line together.
The event's routes were designed to cater to various abilities, with riders choosing from bronze, silver, or gold routes. These paths featured a mix of vineyard trails, apple orchards, and scenic stretches around the Eikenhof Dam. Shaun Glover from Red Cherry Events, the organizer, described the event as ideal for beginner to intermediate riders.
"It's a great way for families to experience a professionally timed stage race, while also exploring the local landscape," Glover said.
With a history of supporting mountain biking in the Grabouw area for more than three decades, the Weekend Warrior event continues to foster a sense of community while promoting outdoor activities and healthy living.
For more information:
Lucille Botha
Tru-Cape
Tel: +27 (0) 21 850 1800
Email: [email protected]
www.tru-cape.com