Rally Star Set For W2w Hattrick

News Release / 27.10.2015

Rally sensation Ashley Haigh-Smith’s newest challenge will kick off at the end of this week when he takes on all three FNB Wines2Whales (W2W) Three-Day Mountain Bike (MTB) Events.  The FNB W2W MTB Adventure will start at the picturesque Lourensford Wine Estate (Somerset West) on Friday, 30 October, followed by the FNB W2W MTB Ride on Monday, 02 November and finally the FNB W2W MTB Race on Friday, 06 November.

Starting in the Winelands of Somerset West, teams of two riders will cross through (and over) 13 wineries, 26 private farms, six mountains, historic roads and mountain passes, nature conservation areas (including the Kogelberg Biosphere) before finishing within sight of the famous whales of Hermanus!

“I’ve been thinking about taking part in all three events for a long time,” says Haigh-Smith.  “I heard that no one has ever taken part in all three events in one year.  I love being first, even at this.  I took part in my first W2W event in 2013.  With each day having its own challenges, crossing the finish line after each stage was a real accomplishment for me.  I saw it as a symbol that anything could be conquered.”

“We will be hoping for a top 80 finish in the Adventure and Ride and a top 200 finish in the Race,” continues Haigh-Smith.  “I will team up with my good friend Doug Bird for the Adventure.  My closest friend Henk Lategan will be my partner for the Ride, while my long-time friend and fellow rally driver Gugu Zulu will team up with me for the Race.  From the riders taking part, to the impressive team that makes this event possible, W2W truly is a leading three day stage race.  I am looking forward to the amazing food, camaraderie and support.”

EVENT INFORMATION:  FNB Wines2Whales MTB Events 

•    FNB Wines2Whales MTB Adventure:  Friday, 30 October 2015 – Sunday, 01 November 2015  
•    FNB Wines2Whales MTB Ride:  Monday, 02 November 2015 – Wednesday, 04 November 2015  
•    FNB Wines2Whales MTB Race:  Friday, 06 November 2015 – Sunday, 08 November 2015  

For more information on the FNB Wines2Whales MTB events see www.wines2whales.co.za  

About FNB Wines2Whales: 

FNB Business and FNB Private Wealth have made a joint commitment to sponsor the annual Wines2Whales Mountain Bike Events.   

FNB’s ongoing strategy is to support local and community events that show the potential to grow. This sponsorship affirms our dedication to providing an experience that is beyond expectation, through a sport that continues to grow in popularity as one of the key activities in the South African sporting calendar. The annual FNB Wines2Whales Mountain Bike Events are aligned to our belief that adventure is the heart of innovation and this is one of many platforms on which we seek to make a lasting connection with new and existing clients.­