Grootbrak, Garden Route (Nov ’23) – There are few Garden Route events as eagerly anticipated as the annual GrootbrakGrabadoo, traditionally hosted on the last day of each year. This time round, since December 31 falls on a Sunday, the date is pegged for Saturday the 30th. And this year’s joyous gathering of fit families and friends will be extra special, as 2023 marks its 20th anniversary.
On Saturday December 30, participants will be spoilt for choice with mountain bike routes over four different distances, as well as a fun walk through the village of Great Brak River. The event is regarded by locals and visitors to Iconic Mossel Bay as the ultimate way for families to connect as the year comes to a close.
Taking the scenic surrounds of the town into account, the experience leaves cyclists and walkers/runners with memories to last a lifetime. But participants are also gifted with well-deserved buffs and medals as memento of yet another awesome old-year adventure.
Says veteran route coordinator Alewijn Dippenaar: “Participants can expect a top-class mountain bike family day with breath-taking tracks through some of the Garden Route’s most spectacular floral kingdom.” Cyclists can choose between distances of 15km, 36km, 58km and 72km, while the fun walk route is just short of 5km.
The on-foot challenge is open to individual runners and walkers, families and their pets. The walk shows off the beauty of the coastal hamlet’s river mouth and marina, while all cycling trails have been tried and tested for safe navigation by riders of all skills levels.
As has been the case for the past two decades, the village will again spring into action as race day draws near. GrootbrakGrabadoo marshals and officials are recruited from local community organisations and sports clubs, while residents and businesses contribute en masse.
In this way, this special community is involved and empowered. But not only does GrootbrakGrabadoo boost the local economy; the event also serves as main fundraiser for several local charities.
The action kicks off at 6am on Saturday December 30 at Great Brak Sport Grounds in Lang Street, opposite Peperboom Restaurant. Online entries close by December 29 but pre-entries can be made at the sports grounds from 8am to 5pm on the 29th, and late entries on the 30th from 6-6:30am. The ‘no helmet, no ride’ rule is strictly imposed for cyclist.
This year’s Grabadoo is supported by Property Connect, with a handful of other Garden Route businesses also having pledged their support for an event that’s billed as ‘unmissable’ on festive season calendars.
Find entry forms and more information at Property Connect offices in Wilderness, George, Great-Brak River and Mossel Bay. You can also click on www.onlines.co.za to book your spot at Grabadoo 2023, contact Mimi on 084 583 3144 or at mimi@gojipr.net, or Alewijn on 082 457 5675 or at dyndev@mweb.co.za for details.