Ariane Kleinhans from Team Contego/28E has won the first race of the MTN Marathon series when she crossed the finish line in first place at Barberton, Mpumalanga, over 75km.
Her winning time was 3 hours, 15 minutes.
Source: Zoon Cronje
Ariane was joined on the winner's podium by Candice Neethling and Ischen Stopforth. It was Ariane's second victory in two races after she started the season by defending her Attakwas-title successfully.
On Saturday Ariane got away on the biggest climb of the day and was never seen again.
"The conditions were good, not that muddy. I really like the route, it is great racing in a beautiful area. I made sure I go first into the jeep track. From there on in I just focused on my own pace. I heard that Candice stayed the longest with me. Riding on the Giant hard tail 29'er was great. I felt strong throughout the race and I'm really happy with my preparation so far for the season."
This must be one of Ariane's favourite races, as she loves the river crossings and entertaining route. Also the surrounding mountains and green vegetation probably makes her feel like she is back in Switzerland!
The other Team Contego/28E-rider at Barberton Erik Kleinhans managed an 11th place after a long hard day in the office. Erik crossed over to the front group on the first climb of the race over 120km. But his troubles started at the second feeding station.
"I got a piece of wood stuck in my derailleur. I had to stop and try and limit the damage. I gave it my all to get back to the leaders and managed to caught up with most of them. I was sixth on top on the climb. On the downhill I cut my tyre though." Erik had to stop three times to put air in his tyre.
"I'm happy with how I raced, but I'm disappointed that I could not have finished higher after feeling so good on the day."
Also read Erik & Ariane's Blog on the event. Click here
