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08 Oct 2020 09:14 am
Berg & Bush 2020 COVID Race Update
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DESCENT
3 DAYS
24th - 26th June 2022
THE RACE
The 3 Day Descent is our Main flagship event. The best "PROPER MOUNTAIN BIKING" by far with awesome single track. Entries in teams of two or solo option.
THE GRINDROD BANK BERG & BUSH TOUR
3 DAYS
14th - 16th June 2022
THE RIDE
Free Riding with a less crowded environment for the connoisseur mountain biker. For the adventurous soul who is not in a hurry. Experience the greatness that "PROPER MOUNTAIN BIKING" has to offer: less riders, more chilled. Solo Entries available.
2 DAY
2 DAYS
18th - 19th June 2022
THE ORIGINAL
Ideal for family and friends. Lots of fun family categories and also hosts a Spionkop Sprint! This one is sociable and relaxed, but just as "PROPER" as the other 2 events. We welcome riders from ages 15 upwards!
We love e-bikes! E Bikers are welcome in our Great Midweek event. Entries now open at https://t.co/MlL9ZMGU0U https://t.co/UsbLJU8vzF
We've built a brand new trail at Cobra alley so you can enjoy this unbelievable view! Entries are now open at… https://t.co/EGnvWt15Bo
Nature is calling and so is your bike! Entries now open https://t.co/MlL9ZMGU0U https://t.co/k2LRpyim8L
We just love the view from the top of Spionkop over Spionkop Dam! Entries are now optn for October:… https://t.co/pKpQaZxJd8
Our events offer a solo or a team option for the 3 day events. Which do you prefer and why? https://t.co/SMQQNxf852
Can you believe we have been going for 14 years? How has it been that long! We have an absolute passion for TRAILS… https://t.co/Wn84Q0Syp5
The joy found on two wheels is hard to describe???? WIll you be finding your freedom with us this October? Entries a… https://t.co/k6NbMo2pdZ
Here's to the dads who ride with us ???? Thank you for teaching your kids about the joy found in time spent on two whe… https://t.co/31WUW7lHkn
Can you picture it? So. much. space. We're building even more trails in anticipation of our events this October.… https://t.co/N0qJRSJKE5
We know. We miss it too! We're looking forward to hosting you in October, and so are Nottingham Road Brewery ???? https://t.co/pLhbgYmwC8
THE RACE
ENTRIES
ROUTE & GPS
ROUTE & GPS
ACCOMMODATION
ACCOMMODATION
FLY-IN PACKAGES
FLY-IN PACKAGES
DIRECTIONS
DIRECTIONS
BIKE AND CAR SHUTTLES
BIKE AND CAR SHUTTLES
ITINERARY
ITINERARY
PHYSIO & MASSAGE
PHYSIO & MASSAGE
PRIZES, BATCHING AND RESULTS
PRIZES, BATCHING AND RESULTS
TRAINING PROGRAMME
TRAINING PROGRAMME
RULES
RULES
BRING WITH YOU
BRING WITH YOU
MEALS
MEALS
MECHANICS
MECHANICS
SPONSORS
SPONSORS
PROPER MOUNTAIN BIKING
The Grindrod Bank Berg & Bush is a family - run event made by mountain bikers, for mountain bikers. We have three events to choose from, the Descent, Tour and Original Two Day. Riders camp along the shady banks of the Tugela river at the famous Em'Seni Camp near Winterton. With farm-style hospitality and an area rich in history, not to mention incredible riding, you're sure to have a proper adventure on your bike!
The Grindrod Bank Berg & Bush Tour
14 - 16 June 2022 (3 days)
- Ride a brand new Day 1 following sections used for the World single speed championships
- Manageable race distances (60km, 65 km, 50km)
- Stay in one race village( Emseni camp) not having to move your luggage
- Shuttles from the airport available
- Solo entries available
- TRAIL RUN: 15km on Day 1, 10km on Day 2, Champagne Breakfast and Yoga on Day 3
The 2 Day Original
18 & 19 June 2022 (2 days)
- Managable distances (60km,50km)
- Great for families (15 years and older allowed to ride)
- Stay in one race village
- Fun Category prizes (Mother/child, husband & wife, father/child etc)
Descent
24 - 26 June 2022 (3 days)
- This iconic event takes riders on Day 1 from the top of the Drakensberg mountains down beautiful meandering single track via Sollys Folly to our camp on the
banks of the Tugela River
- Day 2 and 3 trails include hand built single track following the Tugela River
and up and over the infamous Spioenkop Mountain
- Spend 2 nights at our race village (Emseni Camp) selecting one of the three camping options or self camp or stay in nearby B and B or hotel .
- Shuttles to and from OR Tambo airport available
- Solo entries available
Gallery
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the cancellation/refund policy? I am not able to ride any more.
Grindrod Bank Berg & Bush 2021 Refund Policy:
Refund Policy:
* Should we as an event be forced to postpone due to Covid 19 we will carry all entered riders entries over to 2022 at no extra cost.
Refunds processed up to 31 May 2021 will be refunded at 75% of entry fee.
However you can also sell your entry to another rider and do an online substitution.
The same refund policy applies to the cost of a tent, if it cannot be sold to another rider.
No refunds will be made on partial payments. You need to be fully paid up to qualify for refund policy above.
I undertake to participate entirely at my own risk. I agree that I shall have no claims whatsoever against the organizing body, any individuals, organiser or official, marshal, assistant, helper or agent, the sponsors, any local authority or land owners, in respect of any loss or damage whatsoever I may suffer arising from any injury to my person or loss or damage to property as a result of, or arising out of, whether directly or indirectly, my participation in this event, including my arrival and departure there from and attendance of any ceremony and function thereof, however such loss or damage may arise and regardless of whether or not same shall have been caused directly or indirectly by negligence, of one or more or all of the aforementioned parties. In the event of my approval of this form as a guardian of a minor, I hereby consent to such minor being bound by the foregoing and further I indemnify the aforementioned parties to the extent, if any, to which such minor is not capable of waiving his rights as stipulated within. I agree to participate subject to rules including any drug tests and penalties provided for therein. By entering, I agree to email and SMS communications from EntryNinja and possibly LiveTime depending on the timing provider, regarding event details. I have read the above indemnity and the rules understand them and shall abide by them.
Cancellation due to Force Majeure and Severe Weather If Berg and Bush is forced to cancel a stage (or stages) due to severe weather conditions or fires that puts riders’ safety at risk, the riders will not have any claim against the organisers or any of their sponsors of whatsoever nature in these circumstances. Berg and Bush reserves the right to change the route for inter alia, safety and security reasons without notice. If Berg and Bush is cancelled in total as a last resort due to events beyond our control (force majeure) – relating to, inter alia, political turmoil, natural disasters, strikes, protest action or any other major disturbance beyond our control, riders will have no claim whatsoever including but not limited to a refund against the organisers or any of their sponsors. This will include entry fees and or flights and other expenses. Berg and Bush will do everything in our power to reroute and to run the event in a safe and secure manner should any event of force majeure arise.
Can I enter as a solo rider?
We accept solo riders in the The Tour and The Descent. Teams of 2 only in the 2 Day event.
Can I enter now and pay later?
Use our easy payment plan to help with monthly payments! You can tailor each month's amount to suit your pocket. Once you have completed your entry, you need to pay a first months installation of R1060 per rider by the end of December. You can then choose how much you would like to pay per month and add your credit card details. You need to be fully paid up by the end of April.
Payment over six months will work out to around R1100 per month per rider.
No refunds will be given for payment plans or part payments, but you are absolutely welcome to substitute with another rider in your place.
Where is Registration for the 3 day events in 2022?
DESCENT: Windmill Farm also known as the Border post. It includes dinner at race briefing and breakfast at the start. Please select a place to stay nearby from the accommodation list. Registration on Thursday 23 June 2022.
THE TOUR: The Tour Registration will take place at Emseni Camp on Monday 13 June 2022. Tents and dinner included for the Monday night.
I normally ride the Descent/The Tour (Great Trek / Great Midweek)/2 day, but would like to do one of the other events this year. Am I allowed?
You may enter the event of your choice.
What is the difference between The Tour and the Descent?
The Descent is our flagship event, with prize money allocated to the winners in the Race up Spionkop. The Tour (formerly known as the Great Midweek) is more of an Adventure and has a shorter day 1 route. The field is much smaller, which in general leads to a much more relaxed vibe. It also starts & ends at one race village, Em'Seni camp, Winterton.
Is there a shuttle service to get my car from the start of the Descent to Emseni?
Descent: https://computicket-boxoffice.com/grindrod-bank-berg-and-bush/grindrod-bank-berg-bush-shuttle-service#
• Car shuttles from Windmill Race Village to Emseni Race Village on Friday 25 June 2021.
• Riders utilising this service must collect their car tag at Registration on Thursday 24 June.
• Cars must be parked in the allocated shuttle service area on Thursday night (riders staying at Windmill Farm) or Friday morning (Riders stay out on Thursday night)
• Car and keys will be available for collection at Emseni from Lunchtime on Friday
• If you intend riding like the Wind on Day 1, pack a small bag with clean clothes and cash for the bar so you don’t lounge around in your smelly kit.
• The togbag truck will arrive at Emseni Racevillage before your car.
Can I enter the Berg and Bush with my child?
According to Cycling South Africa our 2 day event classifies as a mini stage race. This means that children turning 15 before 31st December can enter. This creates a great opportunity for you to compete with your son or daughter in the fun Parent/Teenager categories. (Mother teen and Father teen)
Is dinner available on the night of registration?
Yes, it is included in the entry fee. As well as a hot breakfast at the start for all 3 Events.
What time is race briefing?
Race briefing starts at 19h00 unless communicated otherwise.
How do I get my car from the start to Emseni?
There will be a car shuttle from the start at The Border Post, to the finish at Emseni. This is a Winterton and Bergville church fundraiser. You have to book this in advance here: https://events.computicket.com/events/3462
Do I have to have a GPS?
For the Descent & The Tour you do as we have introduced GPS mapping in 2016. The 2 Day is a great event to try and use it but its not compulsory as we have marked it.
What should I always have with me whilst on the route?
It’s always a good idea to have your medical aid card with you. Although signal is not always available, it is wise to take your phone with you.
Do I need to bring a lock for my tent?
Theft is not really a problem, but if it makes you feel more relaxed, then you are welcome to do so.
Where can I stay the night before The Descent (Thursday 23 June 2022)?
There is a list of B&Bs available for the night before the Descent start, please click on our accommodation page for options in the Northern Berg / Harrismith / Bergville. You can also book a pre - event tent at the start for R700 when you fill out the entry form! This includes a canvas tent, 2 mattresses, bike park, parking, 24 hour tea & coffee station and ablutions. Dinner & Breakfast is included for all riders.
Can I stay the night before the event at Em'Seni?
For the 2 Day and the Great Midweek, Yes. For the Descent you need to find accommodation the night before near Windmill farm/Registration/The Start.
Where are the GPS files?
The GPS files are released just before the event as we are tweaking routes and want them to be perfect! They are sent via newsletter to those entered.
On the 2 day, Is my race tent available on Friday and Saturday night?
yes
Are there tents available at registration the night before the start of the Descent?
Yes but they must be pre - booked. These are available to purchase on your entry form.
What is the payment plan?
Payment Plan:
Use our easy payment plan to help with monthly payments! You can tailor each month's amount to suit your pocket. Once you have completed your entry, you need to pay a first months installation of R1060 per rider. You can then choose how much you would like to pay per month and add your credit card details. You need to be fully paid up by the end of January 2021.
Payment over six months will work out to around R1000 per month per rider.
No refunds will be given for payment plans, but you are absolutely welcome to substitute with another rider in your place.
Will the events ever be cancelled?
If Berg and Bush is forced to cancel a stage (or stages) due to severe weather conditions or fires that puts riders’ safety at risk, the riders will not have any claim against the organisers or any of their sponsors of whatsoever nature in these circumstances. Berg and Bush reserves the right to change the route for inter alia, safety and security reasons without notice. If Berg and Bush is cancelled in total as a last resort due to events beyond our control (force majeure) – relating to, inter alia, political turmoil, natural disasters, strikes, protest action or any other major disturbance beyond our control, riders will have no claim whatsoever including but not limited to a refund against the organisers or any of their sponsors. This will include entry fees and or flights and other expenses. Berg and Bush will do everything in our power to reroute and to run the event in a safe and secure manner should any event of force majeure arise.
Where is the latest COVID-19 INFO?
You can read it all here.
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