Mans and Liebenberg shine

Hollard MTB Gravel and Dirt Series comes alive
The Heja Game Lodge was the centre of cycling attention over the weekend with Gerhard Mans Jnr stealing the show once again at the Hollard MTB Gravel and Dirt Series on Saturday.
  • 2 Years Ago 03 October 2022
Cyclists Gerhard Mans and Courtney Liebenberg claimed the bragging rights in the last Hollard MTB Gravel and Dirt Series of the year after a fine display at the Heja Game Lodge over the weekend.

Mans Jnr, who finished first overall in the men’s category in a time of 02:25:33, said he was pleased to have finished the race in such fantastic fashion.

"I am happy with the win even though the wind did not make it easy for the riders on the day.

"It was not easy, but I managed to cross the finish line first, and that is something to be happy about.

"I would like to laud the organisers for making this possible and for the wonderful route," he said.

Danzel De Koe was second overall after his victory over 64 km, followed by Martin Freyer in third.

Hardus Nell, who finished third in the men’s elite competition with a time of 02:37:49, also shared his excitement despite not finishing on top in the overall places.

"I was really not expecting to finish in podium places, but I managed to surprise myself.

"Anyone would want to be a winner, but not all of us can win, and that is why I am settling for third," Nell said.



On top of the game

The overall winner of the women’s category, Courtney Liebenberg, was just as ecstatic about her win, which saw her beat some of the top cyclists in the women’s mountain biking fraternity.

Liebenberg clocked 2:56:12 on her bike, followed by Nicola Fester (03:11:22), while veteran cyclist Irene Steyn was in third place in the 64 kilometres in the elite women's category.

"One thing I can say is that it was not an easy journey because I was riding against the wind.

I, however, picked my moment and decided to give it a go, which was enough to earn me a victory.

"I am very happy with the result as well as with my performance," Liebenberg remarked.

Michelle Doman was second overall, clocking 03:08:33, while Nicola Fester took third place overall with her 03:11:22 podium finish.

Among the other podium finishers were Nelius Burger and Michael Burger, who were behind Mans, while Silke Bean and Marissa Mouton were behind Michelle Doman in their respective categories.