Stage 3 will be the longest day, a transition from the succulent Robertson Karoo vegetation to the farmlands of Greyton and the Cape Country Meander. The first 50km on quiet district roads will be fast, although there will be some entertaining deviations from the beaten path with a few short but steep climbs to keep riders on their toes. The route then heads through Melozhori Game Reserve, home to African wildlife such as antelope, zebras, giraffe and buffalo, as well as “The Big Drop”, but it won’t be plain sailing as riders should watch out for the thorny bushes lining the descent. From here it will be flat(ish) following the Riviersonderend River upstream. As the name (river without end) suggests, it will still be a way to go, with “Puffadder Hill” a short but rocky climb slowing down the pace. After that participants can expect fast bunch riding on this relatively easy stretch of district & farm roads with some rolling hills as riders clock up the miles. Just when it will look like the day is done, there will be a sting in the tail, diverting riders onto the farmlands for the final approach of the brand new race village at The Oaks Estate, just outside Greyton.
Karl Platt and Christoph Sauser win NTT Masters category in fine style
