Last year’s runner up Max Sullivan, who finished a close second at the 2017 JBay Windfarm MTB Classic 2017, will be bringing MAD MAX team to the race this year.
“I thoroughly enjoyed the racing last year,” explains Sullivan, who finished a close second behind Jason Reed at the 2017 JBay Windfarm MTB Classic. “I used the technical terrain and descents to split the field last year,” he says. “Myself and Jason rode clear and worked well together. I had a small crash before one of the climbs, and went into the hurt box as Jason was riding well when the road pitched up.”
Reed seized his opportunity and attacked when Sullivan was at his weakest. “A drag-race to the line ensued and he got the win, so I’m definitely coming back hungry for the win,” says Sullivan. “I’ll also be bringing some firepower from Team Mad Macs p/b hazz with me,” he adds.
Sullivan is looking forward to the route – the 85km ultra of which was redesigned in 2017 to feature even more single-track. “I really enjoy the terrain out there – nice and technical terrain mixed with smooth single-track and fast gravel sections, if the wind doesn’t blow it will be a really pleasant day out,” says Sullivan, adding that he really enjoyed the great vibe before, during and after race.
There will once again be R55 000 worth of prices up for grabs with a R10 000 first prize for both the male and female 85km ultra category winners.
Now in its sixth year, the race has traversed through Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm since 2014 and carries the unique distinction of being the only MTB event in Africa to run through a wind farm.
The JBay Wind Farm MTB Classic takes place on 14 July 2018. Previously this event was known as the JBay MTB Open and forms part of the JBay Winterfest, which is set to take place from 2 to 17 July. Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm is the title sponsor of the JBay Wind Farm MTB Classic.
The event runs from the Kabeljouws parking lot and will offer something for all mountain-bike skill and fitness levels, featuring a 25km fun ride; 50km half-marathon and 85km ultra. The race carries the unique distinction of being the only one-day race in Africa to traverse a wind farm.
22 May 2018
