TIB opened the 2011 account this weekend with a podium place at the ever popular Wartberg Classic. With over 1000 pre entries, the race organisers were put to the test as that figured was almost doubled by the time the race started.

Playing host to yet another outstanding rendition of the years 1st super classic, the small town of Wartberg came out in full force to support the “clockwork” driven race and were pleasantly surprised at the response from the MTB community in-terms of participatory numbers.

The field held a number of the top pros with the likes of Rouke Cruiser (Mr Price/Orange Monkey), Andrew Hill (TIB), Brendon Davies (Africa Continental Champ 2011), Carl Calverley, Dave Lieman (Thulenmorewood) and Sean Merridew (Mr Price) and the current Duzi Champ Andrew Berkett. This set the scene for a fast start with the top riders jostling for a position into the first single track. A new addition to this years race was the introduction of “duel track” single track, allowing riders to ride side by side and pass slower riders without having to wait, whilst still enjoying the thrill of manicured trails.

A break away formed with the TIB rider and Cruiser making the first decisive move. The group wasn’t quick enough to respond, thereby allowing the two to shift into a strong position with a 40seconds lead. Only one rider came across this was the Jeep rider and newly crowned u19 continental champ. He took the opportunity to catch the leaders when they missed a turn and turned back onto track after a couple a seconds.

The three worked well until a big effort from Cruiser on a steep climb dislodged Davies and Hill providing just enough of a gap to make a break.

The ride to finish wasn’t plain sailing for Davies after a mechanical slowed him before a short steep climb. The TIB athlete capitalised and pushed extremely hard to the finish line, loosing just under a minute to the Cruiser. 3rd place went to the ever improving Carl Calverley who rode away from the chasing group with a couple of hard attacks. This bodes well for the TIB stage racing duo of Hill and Calverley who are out to make a big splash at Sani2C in May and to defend their Duzi Imfula crown in June.

Final results:
1st Rouke Cruiser (Mr Price/Orange Monkey “UK”)
2nd Andrew Hill (Tuttle Insurance Brokers)
3rd Carl Calverley

Article by Andrew Hill,
TIB Sponsored Cyclist