Situated in the lush, indigenous surroundings of the breathtaking Wild Coast in Eastern Cape, award winning Umngazi River Bungalows offers the opportunity of cycling one of the most beautiful, unspoilt coastlines along the South African coast. The 4 day Grindrod Bank Umngazi Pondo Pedal is the epitome of purist MTB racing. Each day the races start and finish at Umngazi River Bungalows. Over 3 days, competitors will endure 115 kilometers of varied terrain: single track, cattle track, district roads and swamp trails. The focus of the event is not only an opportunity to enjoy Umngazi’s warm hospitality & cycle the most beautiful coastlines; but also to assist in making a difference to our local community’s neediest learners.
Dates to diarise for 2012 & 2013 Pondo Pedal :
6-10 June 2012
5-9 June 2013
Entries still open, 12 Team places still available.
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FEEDBACK FROM 2011 RACE (OUR FIRST RACE!):
Although we found the riding terrain fairly tough, we had such a great time and I loved meeting so many new and interesting people. You were wonderful at making us feel welcome in the most beautiful place. What a priviledge it was to spend four days in stunning countryside. Congratulations to all of you who are so committed to helping the local communities. They clapped and cheered us along our way with huge smiles, always intrigued by my leopard ears sticking out of my helmet- some of the little ones' expressions were priceless! The top of our heroes list has to be the wonderful staff at Umngazi- so friendly and always there to cater to your every wish. THE FOOD WAS DIVINE!!!!
Cheryl and Mike, Richards Bay
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What is left to be said? What an absolute blast it all turned out to be!! I have been riding stage races for five years and can categorically say the PONDO PEDAL is the best by FAR. The lads at Umngazi sure understand a thing or two about hospitality_ well done to everyone involved.
Tiny, Hilton.
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The trails were fantastic (although possibly a bit too technical for first timers), but the overall concept was what made the event so special. I have done quite a few multi-stage races including the Cape Epic, Imana, Sabi Experience, Sani2C and Berg & Bush, and none have had the camaraderie or atmosphere that the Pondo Pedal had. The weather played its part and the setting and team of Umngazi were beyond compare. See you next year.
Rich, Nottingham Road.
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Thanks so much for a wonderful few days. Being able to ride together is a rare treat and to be able to do so in such beautiful surroundings was really special. Coming home to Umngazi every day and being able to relax and spend quality time together really put the cherry on the cake. A big thank you to all of you.
Steve and Shan.
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A huge thank you for the most brilliant four days on Pondo Pedal. Rachel and I are DEFINITELY back again next year. A big shout out to you and the fantastic crew for making the event such a spectacular success.
Lee, Durban.
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A very big thank you for organising and hosting probably the best event I have been part of! Umngazi was a fantastic location and GREAT riding, even though challenging at times. It was fantastic from start to finish and loved everything about it; especially the crowd it attracted and the social side of the whole week.
Dean, Johannesburg
