Erik Kleinhans and Oliver Munnik of ‘Team William Simpson Invitational’ maintained their lead during Stage Two of the Wines2Whales three-day mountain bike stage race on Saturday, 14 November 2009 when they crossed the finish line at Paul Cluver Farm, Elgin in 03hours33minutes36seconds. 

According to Munnik the route was once again amazing.  “Stage Two’s route featured loads of single track with lots of ups and downs and the most spectacular scenery.  We really had a good ride today, Erik and I just compliment each other really well.  The event has just been unbelievable so far, there’s a nice vibe amongst competitors.  The route is also of such a nature that it’s not too difficult, so all riders can enjoy it.  We are looking forward to Stage Three,” says Munnik.  ‘Team William Simpson Invitational’ is currently in the lead in the Open Men’s Category of the event.  ‘Team Fairbairn Private Bank’ is second, while ‘Team Extreme’ is third.

Penni Rawstorne and Tatum Prince of ‘Team Hot Box’ were once again victorious in the Open Women’s Category of the event when they crossed the finish line in 04hours23minutes56seconds.  According to Rawstorne, Stage Two was single-track heaven.  “The route was just perfect with more and more single track and virtually no climbing.  The views were unbelievable and we couldn’t have asked for better weather.  We’re going to follow the same plan during Stage Three and that is just to have fun,” says Rawstorn.  ‘Team Hot Box’ is currently in the lead in the Open Women’s Category of the event, while ‘Team Crazy Chicks’ is second and ‘Team Anon’ is third.

‘Team GT Jeep Maties’ are currently in the lead in the Open Mixed Team category of the Wines2Whales three-day mountain bike stage.  ‘Team Survivors’ is in second place, while ‘Team Oak Valley’ is lying in third place.

The third and final stage (Stage 3) of the Wines2Whales three-day mountain bike stage will start at 07h00 on Sunday, 15 November 2009 at Paul Cluver Wine Farm, Elgin and end at Hermanus Old Harbour.  Rider’s legs will remember stages 1 and 2 all too clearly as they tackle the descent into Hermanus. Before spotting a whale, riders will need to endure the toughest, but also most rewarding stage of the race. This stage will include a good deal of ‘never ridden before’ trails, including parts of Groenlandberg, the historic Katberg Pass, the Botriver Valley, Karwyderskraal and the Hemel en Aarde valley.

Over the course of 3 days, teams consisting of two cyclists each will cross approximately 230 km of the Western Cape’s most beautiful and unspoilt terrain.  Riders can expect to see breathtaking scenery and spectacular mountain-biking terrain, as well as the opportunity to test their endurance and skill. Family and friends will also be able to support their favourite teams along the spectator friendly route.

For more information on the Wines2Whales race please contact Stillwater Sport and Entertainment on (021) 883 – 2413 or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it