Mokolodi Scorpion Mountain Bike Challenge Returns
24 May 2025
Local mountain bikers are set to tussle in undoubtedly the toughest one day off road race dubbed the Mokolodi Scorpion Mountain bike challenge on Sunday May 25th.
Race organizer Khaya Groth said owing to popular demand they decided to stage the race which was last held at the scenic Mokolodi nature reserve before the advent of the Covid-19 scourge in 2019.
Once again riders would endure the challenging course within the stunningly beautiful bushes of the nature reserve which offers the true thrill of off road racing.
“This exciting event aims to bring together cycling enthusiasts of all ages for a day of adventure, competition and community support. Generously sponsored by Stanbic Bank, Wilderness, Time Projects, Energade, Creative Culture, Artswana, Ultimate Cycle Base, Grip Runner, Garmin Botswana, and Kit Group the race features three categories, a challenging 55km main race, a 20km race, and a fun-filled 5km ride suitable for all skill levels,” added Groth.
Groth said prizes included cash awards for the top male and female winners of the 55km event as well as for male and female winners up to 16 years in the 20km race.
He said all finishers of the 55km race would automatically enter a draw for a luxurious two-night all-inclusive stay at Luxury Wilderness Lodge.
“It’s a challenging terrain and route. It will be a great ride with rocky hills, flowing single tracks, and of course the sting in the tail of the Mokolodi Scorpion with some exciting climbs. Basically we want to have more mountain bike events within Botswana. Gaborone Cycling Committee built up the scorpion to be a highlight on the Mountain bike calendar. But these days there are not many mountain bike events. In addition, we want to present the amazing cycle trails that Mokolodi nature reserve has to offer. As well as raise funds for the Mokolodi Wildlife Foundation,” he said.
The off road race is affectionately known as “the race with a sting in the back” and was named after the predatory arthropod scorpion which has an excruciating but harmless sting.
Probably one of the physically taxing cycling challenge after the three days Kalahari Challenge, the race would take riders to the dizzying heights of some sections of the Kgale hill ranges down to the cold and muddy Mokolodi foothills.
In all fairness riders and spectators are set to enjoy breathtaking landscapes that could capture imaginations of professional riders.
Against cooler temperatures, the air is likely to get thinner which would make the mountainous scenery more spectacular and tougher.
The route is undoubtedly exciting with walking paths and wild animal trails within the park.
In the past the race had produced refined cyclists in the mold of former off road and road rider Bernado Ayuso, enterprising youngster Thato Madimabe and veteran cyclist Jabu Tabolane.
Household names in off-road races such as Neville Van Zyl and Angus Boxshall Smith are among those who popularized the event. ENDS
Source : BOPA
Author : Baleseng Batlotleng
Location : KGALE
Event : Mountain bke challenge
Date : 24 May 2025
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