Inaugural Renishaw Solstice Race attracts hundreds of athletes to Scottburgh
The race formed part of the KwaZulu-Natal Mountain Biking Series and was classified as a KZN Super Classic Race, drawing participants from across the province.
Scottburgh’s first-ever Renishaw Solstice Race was a resounding success, with more than 400 runners and cyclists descending on Crocworld Adventure and Conservation Centre on Saturday, June 20, to experience the growing network of trails within Renishaw Coastal Precinct.
Top honours went to Daniel Van der Watt in the men’s race, while Nadine Nunes took first place in the women’s race.
Hosted by the Scottburgh Cycling Club and sponsored by Renishaw Coastal Precinct, the event attracted 455 registrations, with 412 athletes tackling a variety of trail-running and mountain-biking routes.
The race formed part of the KwaZulu-Natal Mountain Biking Series and was classified as a KZN Super Classic Race, drawing participants from across the province.
“The response to the inaugural Renishaw Solstice Race exceeded expectations and confirms the KZN Mid-South Coast as a premier destination for adventure sport.
Through collaborative efforts, we are steadily building a network of world-class outdoor experiences that allow visitors to truly take advantage of this region’s natural beauty,” said Barto van der Merwe, the managing director of Renishaw Coastal Precinct.
Challenging trails, incredible scenery
Athletes tackled routes that traversed the spectacular landscapes of Renishaw Farm, Finningley Farm, and Umkomaas, with the renowned Cannonbrae Trails proving a standout feature for competitors in the 45km mountain biking category.
The courses combined flowing single-track sections, technical descents, farm roads, challenging climbs, and panoramic coastal views, showcasing the natural beauty of the region.
Results can be found here: https://splittime.co.za/results/
According to Runé Van Zyl of the Scottburgh Cycling Club, the overwhelming feedback from participants confirmed the event’s success.
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Van Zyl said, “Organising a first-time event comes with countless questions and uncertainties, but after this weekend, the answer is clear. The excitement, laughter, smiles, and sense of achievement on the faces of participants were all the proof we needed that this event was a tremendous success and one that will be remembered for years to come. We received fantastic feedback from athletes throughout the day. Riders and runners praised the quality of the trails, the excellent route marking, and the support from our marshals. Many described the routes as challenging, rewarding, and incredibly enjoyable.”
Van Zyl noted that the event would not have been possible without the collective effort of volunteers, sponsors, local businesses, and community partners.
“We are incredibly grateful to Renishaw Coastal Precinct for sponsoring the event and assisting with the preparation of the farm roads. A special thank you also goes to Badger’s Cycling and Sports Centre team for their dedication in clearing and preparing the trails. We also extend our sincere appreciation to Crocworld Adventure and Conservation Centre and Fish Eagle Café for helping create such a welcoming and professional event environment,” Van Zyl added.
Thanks were also extended to additional sponsors supporting the event, including Scottburgh Family Clinic, First Choice (Woodlands Dairy), Shisamanzi, Gladiator, and 32Gi.
Beyond the sporting competition, the Renishaw Solstice Race delivered a vibrant family-friendly atmosphere, with visitors enjoying Crocworld’s conservation attractions, the Jikaleza adventure experience, children’s activities, food vendors, and meals at the Fish Eagle Café.
The event also fulfilled its broader community objective, with a portion of the proceeds being allocated to local non-profit initiatives.
