Respectively rated as the highest scoring PPA Fun Ride for five consecutive years and the best new PPA event for the new season, the very popular Langebaan Country Estate (LCE) Lagoon Cycle Challenge and the LCE Lagoon MTB Funride will once again be held this year, on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 November 2015.
These popular cycle challenges are presented annually – part in the West Coast National Park (WCNP) – by SANParks Honorary Rangers: West Coast Region, in conjunction with Pedal Power Association (PPA) and the main sponsor and host, Langebaan Country Estate (LCE).
The main venue is the driving range at LCE. The LCE Lagoon Cycle Challenge, on Saturday 14 November, comprises two routes – an 80km and 30km route – starting at 07:00 and 07:45 respectively. Both rides mainly take place inside the WCNP, with the routes winding through some of the most beautiful scenery on the West Coast. The finish line is at the top of Stompneusklip (affectionately known as Mamba Hill).
The cost is as follows: 80km – with PPA number R135 (online) and R180 (late entry); without a PPA number R180 (online) and R220 (late entry). For the 30km – with PPA number R75 (online) and R120 (late entry); without a PPA number R120 (online) and R160 (late entry). A helmet is a requirement for participation and an adult must accompany children under 12.
The closing date for pre-entries is Thursday 12 November and can be done online at www.lagoonchallenge.co.za, www.pedalpower.org or www.racetec.co.za Late entries are available on Friday 13 November at the LCE Clubhouse and close 07:45 on the day of the race at the marque tenet on the driving range.
The LCE Lagoon MTB Funride, on Sunday 15 November, also comprises of two routes – a 38km and an 18km route – starting at 08:00 and 07:30 respectively. The 18km route takes place within the Estate. Although more of an intermediate route, the start and finish venue is in close proximity of more of the “main route, ensuring plenty of support.
The route for both races includes a few relatively tough climbs, which, when completed, rewards riders with beautiful panoramic views of the area, especially the lagoon. The longer route winds through farmland on 4×4 tracks before dropping down into the WCNP.
The cost is as follows: 38km – with PPA number R135 (online) and R180 (late entry); without a PPA number R170(online) and R220 (late entry). For the 18km – with PPA number R55 (online) and R75 (late entry); without a PPA number R75 (online) and R95 (late entry). A helmet is a requirement for participation and an adult must accompany children under 12.
Spectators and supporters must take note that the Park will be closed for traffic for the duration of the events. They can, however, enjoy the music, food stalls and beer tent at the LCE venue while waiting for the participants.
Enquiries for the events can be emailed to [email protected] Phone queries for the LCE Lagoon Cycle Challenge: Pam Rutledge on 022 772 2787 or 071 160 2822, or Elbeth le Roux on 082 899 8616. Phone queries for the LCE Lagoon MTB Funride: Jumbo Williams on 082 334 7721. You can also follow the event on Facebook at /LagoonCycleChallenge or on Twitter at @LCELagoonCycle, with the #LCECycleChallenge.