Alfie Cox Invitational puts enduro riders to the test

South Africa's top extreme enduro riders are headed for KwaZulu-Natal this month for the second edition of the Alfie Cox Invitational, which is set to take place on Saturday, 26 August from 9am-3pm. The elimination-based contest is set to bring out the best from a talented group of riders who will battle it out on the 11km-long track at Henderson's Farm in Umzumbe.

The star-studded field includes defending champion, KTM Factory Racing Team’s Scott Bouverie as well as fellow KZN South Coast local, Red Bull's Wade Young (Paddock). Travis Teasdale (Pietermaritzburg) and Jason Munro (Durban) are also expected to be among the front-runners along with Kirsten Landman (Shongweni) who will be the only female on the start line.

Host, Alfie Cox confirmed that competitors will have to brave three grueling rounds in order to claim the crown.

“Ten of the slowest riders will be eliminated after the first two rounds so there is always pressure. In the final, riders must finish within the allotted time of 75 minutes in order to complete the race,” Cox explained.

There are a few changes to last year’s course and Cox says once again riders will have to exhibit technical prowess in order to conquer it.

“It consists of river beds, waterfalls, roots, vines and it will have some steep downhills as well as rocky climbs,” Cox said.

The route’s accessibility means spectators can follow the action and get behind the riders.

“This is what the event is about. This is about giving back to the sport,” Cox said. “It is walking distance to see the climbs. Most of the route is accessible by cars so spectators can soak up everything. There are not many opportunities like this in South Africa. It is an eye-opener,” Cox concluded.