New sponsor for Kalahari Challenge

Staff Writer | Friday April 24, 2015 13:45

 

“Gem Diamonds, experts at discovering hidden treasures in the seemingly bleak Kalahari, saw the potential of the event and have committed their support for the next three years,” the organisers of the event said in a media statement.

The Gem Diamonds Kalahari Challenge is a limited field, full service, three-day stage race through southern Botswana, running from June 26 to 28.

Race Director, Seamus O’Neill, says: “With the sponsorship commitment of Gem Diamonds, we will be making exciting new additions and changes to the race. 

“From beginning to end, the race crew focuses on creating an unforgettable riding experience where riders only have to concentrate on pedaling their bike!

“Riders will enjoy a fully catered event including a new ‘Chill Zone’, with WiFi and DSTV facilities, legendary water points and canvas tent accommodation, complete with mattresses, bedding, pillows and blankets.”

The title sponsorship by Gem Diamonds is just the start of the strategy to turn the Gem Diamond Kalahari Challenge into an event that brings riders back year after year.

The route, which has been tweaked and refined over the last 10 years,  features many kilometres of stunning bushveld singletrack through undulating scenery, a couple of Kalahari “mountains” and some gnarly technical rocky climbs.

There is now a ‘lite’ event concurrent with the main event so as to accommodate as many riders as possible, the organisers said. Riders will get to enjoy the route without interruption, thanks to the 300-rider limited size field of the event. Entries for team and solo riders are currently open and will close on May 29.

“The Kalahari Challenge was one of the original Multi stage MTB events  and has always been a unique cycling event and with the incredible support from Gem Diamonds, it is set to sparkle brightly on the Southern African Mountain Biking calendar, “ concluded Seamus.