Connect with us

Events

Cyclo-cross makes popular return to aQuellé Tour Durban

Published

on

After its successful debut last year the 55km aQuellé Tour Durban cyclo-cross event for MTB riders is expected to attract an even bigger field of riders for this unique event on Monday 28 April.

The route starts and finishes at the Moses Mabhida stadium and follows much of the M4 freeway used by the 45 kilometre fun ride, but includes three detours off the tar for sections of single track and jeep track mountain biking through the surrounding sugar-cane plantations and forests.

The aQuellé Tour Durban.

The aQuellé Tour Durban.

The event struck a chord with mountain bikers on its introduction last year, many eager to be part of the hugely popular aQuellé Tour Durban event, which also offers a 105km road race and the more accessible 45km road race ride up the North Coast on the M4 to uMdloti and back.

The new cyclo-cross MTB race at the aQuellé Tour Durban provides manageable, quick jeep track and single track in three loops around uMdloti.

The new cyclo-cross MTB race at the aQuellé Tour Durban provides manageable, quick jeep track and single track in three loops around uMdloti. Photo: Anthony Grote/
Gameplan Media

The event challenged MTB enthusiasts to set up their bikes appropriately for the race, with significant sections on fast flat tar roads, but capable of handling the off-road sections comfortably.

Last year’s race proved to be popular with the big field of MTB enthusiasts who took part, with the three off-road loops providing entertaining and not overly daunting sections that were novice friendly.

With few cyclo-cross specific bikes in the country, MTB enthusiasts experimented with tyre choices and tyre pressure, locking out shocks and general bike set-up to optimise their ride.

Tyres with significant flat, smooth centres, but with enough knobbly patterns on the side to handle the off-road cambers were popular for the 55km race.

Kargo Pro MTB team star Rourke Croeser won the 2013 aQuellé Tour Durban cyclo-cross race from 2012 winner Andrew Hill (TIB Insurance).

Kargo Pro MTB team star Rourke Croeser won the 2013 aQuellé Tour Durban cyclo-cross race from 2012 winner Andrew Hill (TIB Insurance). Photo: Craig Bishop/
Gameplan Media

Ian Wilson will once again oversee the course design through the surrounding Tongaat-Hulett farmlands and doesn’t envisage any major changes to the popular course put in place last year.

The river crossing detour used last year over the uMdloti river will be easier to manage, with the site now sporting a permanent bridge built by the engineers on site, allowing the riders access to a fast and easy option to cross the river.

Last year’s race was won by seasoned  pro Rourke Croeser of the Kargo Pro MTB team from TIB  Insurance star Andrew Hill, using his mainstream MTB skills and bike set-up to claim the top step on the podium.

There has been much speculation about seeing the outcome of a showdown between classic MTB riders like Croeser and Hill and specialist cyclo-cross elite riders over the fast 55km course.

The event organisers are gearing up for a field substantially larger than the impressive entry that was attracted last year, and said the successful debut was sure to result in a snowballing effect on the entry from MTB enthusiasts.

The aQuellé Tour Durban road races takes place on Monday 28 April 2014. More information can be found atwww.tourdurban.co.za

The 55km aQuellé Tour Durban cyclo-cross race includes three offroad loops that take in single track and farm roads through the Tongaat-Hulett plantations.

The 55km aQuellé Tour Durban cyclo-cross race includes three offroad loops that take in single track and farm roads through the Tongaat-Hulett plantations. Photo: Anthony Grote/
Gameplan Media

0 Users (0 votes)
Location0
Service0
Food0
Ambiance0
Value0
What people say... Leave your rating
Sort by:

Be the first to leave a review.

Verified

Show more
{{ pageNumber+1 }}
Leave your rating

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Entertainment

Jeremy Loops to perform at Durban Botanic Gardens on Saturday 19 October.

Published

on

By

Durban, September 11th, 2024 – Get ready for an epic Spring celebration as South Africa’s beloved singer-songwriter, Jeremy Loops, returns to Durban for the Old Mutual Music at the Lake concert series. On Saturday, 19 October, the iconic Durban Botanic Gardens will be transformed into a vibrant festival of live music and fun for the whole family.

Gates open at 2PM, with the concert wrapping up by 7PM, making it a perfect afternoon of music in one of Durban’s most stunning outdoor venues.
Tickets are limited and available on Webtickets – grab yours before they’re gone!

“Old Mutual’s sponsorship of the Music at the Lake series showcases our deep-rooted commitment to nurturing community spirit and celebrating both local and international talent. We believe in the power of music to bring people together and create lasting memories. Our support for this series is our way of supporting the arts and the communities we serve. We are proud to create platforms where talent, family and joy can flourish in the heart of Durban’s historic Botanic Gardens,” said Thobile Tshabalala, Head of Brand at Old Mutual.

Jeremy Loops brings more than just his live performance magic—he’s back with brand-new music! His latest single, “Go Again,” drops today, 11 September, giving fans a fresh anthem to vibe to before the show. Featuring his signature blend of soulful lyrics and upbeat melodies, “Go Again” is an empowering track about facing life’s challenges head-on.

In Jeremy’s words, “Go Again is my declaration to lean into positivity, to find strength in the storm, and to bring the sunshine, even when it’s raining.” The song, co-written and produced with Edd Holloway (known for his work with Dean Lewis and Lewis Capaldi), marks Jeremy’s second release this year following “Dust Over Dunes” (August 2nd) and gives fans a taste of what to expect from his forthcoming album.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to experience Jeremy Loops live at the Durban Botanic Gardens. Enjoy the perfect family outing, surrounded by nature and incredible music. Book your tickets now!

Event Details:

Old Mutual Music at the Lake with Jeremy Loops
Date: Saturday, 19 October
Location: Durban Botanic Gardens
Tickets: Available now via Webtickets
Capacity: Limited to 2500 attendees
Times: Gates open 14h00 – Show ends 19h00.

 

0 Users (0 votes)
Location0
Service0
Food0
Ambiance0
Value0
What people say... Leave your rating
Sort by:

Be the first to leave a review.

Verified

Show more
{{ pageNumber+1 }}
Leave your rating

Continue Reading

Events

REVIEW: Sunsets & Mermaids, Umhlanga

Published

on

By

Unwind with Great Food and Vibes at Sunsets and Mermaids

Sunsets and Mermaids Restaurant and Bar in Umhlanga, Durban, is an experience you won’t want to miss. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with warm smiles and a complimentary serving of olives stuffed with feta, a delightful mini starter that set the tone for what was to come.

We began with their unique sushi, featuring a delectable combination of prawn and salmon, paired with chicken dumplings that came with a choice of sauces. The hot sauce packed a punch, while the mild sauce offered a gentle, flavorful alternative—both enhanced the dishes perfectly. We paired our meal with expertly crafted cocktails: an Old Fashioned and a Margarita, each complementing the flavors of our food beautifully.

For lunch, we opted for their chicken and beef burgers, each topped with a homemade sauce that added a unique twist. The crispy onion rings and Lay-like chips were a perfect accompaniment, making for a satisfying and delicious meal.

What really stood out was the impeccable service. Not only were the staff attentive and friendly, but the chef personally came to our table to check if the food was to our liking and even offered some great recommendations. The atmosphere was electric, with the upbeat Durban music vibes adding to the overall experience.

Sunset and Mermaids is more than just a bar; it’s a culinary destination with a diverse menu that spans sushi, burgers, and even pizzas. Their Tuesday quiz nights and Wednesday Ladies Night add an extra layer of fun to the week. The place is such a vibe that even the Irish Rugby team made an appearance after their game against the Springboks!

We’re already planning our next visit and highly recommend that you give it a try too.
Sunsets and Mermaids is a must-visit spot in Umhlanga!

To book:
www.sunsetsandmermaids.co.za
(031) 943 3044
Info@sunmer.co.za


Ratings:

Service – 10/10
Location: 9/10
Ambiance – 9/10
Food – 10/10
Overall – 9/10

0 Users (0 votes)
Location0
Service0
Food0
Ambiance0
Value0
What people say... Leave your rating
Sort by:

Be the first to leave a review.

Verified

Show more
{{ pageNumber+1 }}
Leave your rating

Continue Reading

Events

The Sunday Tribune Great Outdoors Expo

Published

on

By

The 2024 Sunday Tribune Great Outdoors Expo is coming up and it is KZN’s BIGGEST Adventure show!

The show is takes place at the Durban Exhibition Centre on the 31st of August and the 1st of September and is KZN’s premier outdoor and 4×4 Exhibition. The 2-day show brings together outdoor enthusiasts, adventurers, and families seeking to reconnect with nature.

This annual event has grown in popularity, highlighting the latest in outdoor equipment, travel destinations, and recreational activities. Whether you are an avid camper, a hiking enthusiast, or simply someone looking to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors, the Expo offers something for everyone.
Visitors to the 2024 Sunday Tribune Great Outdoors Expo can expect a diverse array of exhibitors displaying the newest camping gear, Trailers, 4×4 accessories, hiking equipment, and adventure sports accessories. Major brands and local retailers will be on hand, offering exclusive deals and demonstrations of their latest products. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore innovative tents, durable backpacks, advanced GPS devices, and much more, all designed to enhance outdoor experiences.

One of the highlights of the Expo is the 4×4 track managed by on of SA’s most experiences 4×4 drivers, Travis Duggan. Here visitors can climb inside the latest 4×4’s on the market and test the course and their nerves. Vehicle dealers from around Durban will be displaying the latest and best new vehicles on the market, which you can experience, review, sit inside and dream of your next adventure.

There is an incredible kids play and activity area, which is free to enter, where kids will be supervised, while enjoying Jumping castles, giant slides, carnival games, crazy bikes, bungee trampolines, and lots more.

The highlight of the Expo will not only the incredible exhibitors and the heart pounding 4×4 track, but there will be two of SA’s top Freestyle Motorbike Stunt jumpers, which will be taking to the sky in an ariel display each day inside dedicated MX arena.

In addition to the equipment, activities and Motocross display the Expo features over 20 Food and beverage stands as well as an indoor and outdoor Bar and live music by Tyler De Dominico, Tatum Tides and Gavin Ferguson.

Book the date and get your tickets online to avoid any gate ques from Webtickets.

0 Users (0 votes)
Location0
Service0
Food0
Ambiance0
Value0
What people say... Leave your rating
Sort by:

Be the first to leave a review.

Verified

Show more
{{ pageNumber+1 }}
Leave your rating

Continue Reading
Advertisement

We Are Social

Trending