Merrell Transkei Tuff
Ready to Get Tuff in the Transkei
Press Release / 06.04.2018
South African adventure athletes are in for a treat this coming weekend as the third edition of the Merrell Transkei Tuff presented by Out The Green Box kicks off along South Africa’s Wild Coast.
From the 7 – 8 April 2018, 30 teams from across South Africa will be taking part in a high intensity adventure race. Wavecrest Beach Hotel & Spa will once again play host to this special race.
Rolling green hills, deep carved out canyons, cattle strewn beaches and magnificent rivers are all part of the magic that makes this race so special. Teams will have spectacular views as they navigate themselves from point to point over 150km. “We are excited to not only welcome some of South Africa’s most prestigious athletes, but new comers too. That has been our hope from the beginning; to introduce new people to Adventure Racing but at the same time giving a real challenge to the Pros”, shares Course Director, Bruce Viaene.
The race starts with a “Secret Challenge” as the sun rises on the beach in front of the hotel. Won Adventure have been known to start their races with a unique challenge; previously snorkelling for Check Points and a game of soccer! “We like to break up the start and give all the teams an opportunity to start first”, shares Viaene.
Wavecrest Beach Hotel & Spa is a mere three hours from East London and has been the host venue for the past three years. Its unique setting allows spectators to view their teams kayaking, abseiling and of course, seeing them come into transition. “This is our 'baby's home', where the race was born. It will always be a special place and the birth of Transkei Tuff.” Shares Race Director, Trystan Viaene.
This year sees a stacked Duo’s (2) race with 2017 Duo & Overall winners, Team Sanlam Painted Wolf coming back to defend their title. However, they will be challenged by Team Jabberwock, who are no strangers to the AR Podium. On the Team (4) side, 2016 winners, Team Castle Lite are coming in strong after placing 5th at the 2017 Expedition Africa. “This is an awesome place, with beautiful people. As chilled as the vibe is, this is always a tough race where navigation is important”, shares Adrian Saffy of Team Castle Lite. They will be challenged by Team Nevarest and Team Merrell Mentored who is captained by world-renowned adventure racer, Graham “Tweet” Bird.
Distances & Disciplines:
Start: Secret Challenge
Leg 1 : 2km Trek
Leg 2: 26km MTB
Leg 3: 15km Trek
Leg 4: 80km MTB
Leg 5: Waterfall Abseil & 1km Trek
Leg 6: 11km MTB
Leg 7: 10km Kayak
Leg 8: 15km Trek
The race kicks off at 06:45, you can follow the Live Tracking via www.wonadventure.co.za/live-tracking as well as Won Adventure Facebook page for a LIVE start from 06:40.
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