This is SA's only true MTB Festival - offering all disciplines of MTBing, a real lifestyle event with the campsite the centre of it all. Something on offer for all abilities and ages. Follow the "Events Explained" link that will tell you more about the individual events. The 2009 video can be viewed under Video link on website.
Venue: Tarentaalkraal Campsite, Middelplaas Farm Greyton District, Western Cape
This popular outdoor festival, that caters for the whole family is back at Tarentaalkraal campsite, near Greyton in the Overberg.
The main reason for the great atmosphere at the event is the fact that all events start next to the campsite. This means that you never have to get in your car for the entire weekend and makes it easy for spectators to get in on the action.
An added benefit is the Riviersonderend running 100m from the campsite, giving us the opportunity to run river trips and generally relax in.
About Middelplaas:
The farm is owned and operated by the Viljoen family with Jan Viljoen at the helm.
The main produce is wheat and fruit, while the 2000+ hectare property gives us mountainbikers ample opportunity to get lost...
Festival general info
10 years ago there was nothing like it and it is still the most diverse MTB weekend with over 15 events.
This MTB festival is for all abilities and interests! Whether you do one event or 10, the focus is on fun participation. Some campers don’t even ride — they just come for the spectacle & to relax. You don't have to camp to enjoy the festivities, but it is the best way to experience the soul of mountain biking... The event is geared for all weekend participants that buy the Dirtpass.
You can also just come for the day and enter the individual events. Spectators welcome — ample parking next to the marquee. Spectators have a great program of events to watch at this awesome venue — the vibe is phenomenol. Live music on Saturdaynight after the dual!
From being primarily used for grazing for most of the year, the site is transformed into a hive of mtb activities as the Dirtopia Crew rigs fencing, floodlights and marquees to create an mtb village for 3 days over the weekend.
Main features: will be the Limebar (for thirsty pilgrims), a SPUR diner (to repair empty stomachs), the Trail Centre (merchandise, snacks, INFO etc), kids playpen (with Spur jumping castle), Recycles will be running the bikeshop, stage (band & prizegiving) and the Dual & Dirt Jumping area. Also look out for the Observed Trails area, which will host the largest competition in SA. All these activities will take place around the Activities “Arena” which will see serious bicycle polo action as well as various other fun events.
The downhill course is definitely more sedated then some others on the National circuit but riders enjoyed to be part of the action for a change and not hidden away in the bush, as is normally the case. Spectators can follow 95%of the racing from a single vantage point! Only the Hillclimb & Freeride is a 10min walk.
Family Fun
It is our aim to create one big festive atmosphere with events and activities for everyone. For the non-rider friends and family that come along, read on for things to do and see at the Event and in the region:
Outdoor Activities:
River Trips — Intrapid Rafting will be running short trips along the Riviersonderend river that runs right past the campsite. Simply book at the venue.
Abseiling — a 60m abseil for the brave. Book at venue — only R50 or so.
Kids Stuff:
The festival is great for families - the kids love the camping & the parents know they are in a safe area.
Spur Steak Ranches will bring more entertainment like jumping castles in the ‘kidz zone’. There will be a little kiddies track for them to ride their bikes and a funride on Sunday morning (10km).
Kids Adventure race also a MTB clinic planned on Sunday.
We are also trying to get the local farmer to take the little ones on a tractor/bakkie ride to go and see the sheep!
Spectator oriented events:
Bicycle Polo- Fri 20H00, always a hit event. We gave it “African” Continental Championship Status!
Observed Trials— Sat 11H00 . Always great entertainment. Riders attempt to cross obstacles without putting a foot down.
Night Dual and Dirtjumping— Sat 18H00 Grab your drink and get your spot next to track — be amazed by the local talent! One on One racing under spotlights.
Freeride Challenge — Sat 14h30 Inspired by Red Bull Rampage DVD’s. A highlight!
Downhill— Sun 13H00 The Downhill finishes right at the Campsite, making it very accessible to spectators.
Fun Events: Plenty of music & parties throughout the weekend.
Facilities — toilets, showers, restaurant, bar, Trail Centre, bike shop and more…

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