Oude Molen Distillery MTB Challenge 2011

This Sunday morning, August 21st, a couple of the Oude Molen boys embarked on Oude Molen Distillery’s MTB Challenge. The weather seemed very promising with a strong wind, pouring rain and freezing temperatures, which did not dampen the Oude Molen spirit at all.

The race started with some good humoured jests from the announcer and we responded with the proud enthusiasm of Molle. We set out on the treacherous 10km mountain trial against ferocious competition, ranging from 8 year olds to primary school kids. We were off to an extraordinary start, taking the first possible wrong turn, leading the whole group astray. We were confident until we reach the first hill, taking more wrong turns everywhere we go. The route was set to green arrows and we ended up following blue, red, black, purple and a few green arrows.

10km later some of us finally reached the 1st watering point, for the 35km and 60km trail. Where after, more confusion, fun and adventure followed. Abandoning the 10km route and we ended starting our very own Oude Molen Route. I object to the notion that one of the professional riders received the title of ‘King of the Mountain’, where it should be Oude Molen receiving the title, seeing as we were spread out all over the mountain, some jumping fences, others cycling in circles and some of us without brakes.

Eventually we got back on track and made it to the finish line, where Henri, Mol Die Wet, and Anroux, Mol Scruffy, somehow came in 3rd and 4th place respectively. Congratulations guys. As we all regrouped we spent the rest of our time sharing stories whilst sipping on some of Oude Molen Distillery’s finest brandies. A special note to Juan: which is being nominated for the ‘Crash Test Dummy Award’ who failed to keep his wheels on the ground 3 times and even managed a face plant in a puddle of mud, yet it never dampened his spirit, he got back and never backed down.

A special thanks to everyone that attended the event and made it an adventure worth of remembrance. A special thanks to Anroux for organising our participation to the event. A thanks to Oude Molen Distillery for their venue and welcoming gifts. And another thanks to everyone that was involved in the transport.

Next time we are going for the win Molle!!!

Related article: bicycling.co.za Oude Molen MTB Challenge