Renowned KwaZulu-Natal mountain bike talents Rourke Croeser and Andrew Hill have added their names to the already impressive list of title contenders for Sunday's Sappi 60km Marathon, the feature race of the Sappi Karkloof MTB Festival which takes place this weekend at the Karkloof Country Club in KZN's Midlands.
With defending champ Brendon Davids of Trek SA having already confirmed he will be on the start line and eager to defend his crown, TIB Insurance's Hill and Croeser of Kargo Pro MTB Team's attendance have created even greater interest in the front-of-the-field clash on Sunday.
"Karkloof is a major one for us!" confirmed Croeser. "It's a big one for the team and it's up to Trav (Walker) and I to work together and try get the better of the likes of Brendon (Davids) and Phillip (Buys) to get the win for the team!"
While the spotlight may be on those at the sharp end of the 60km event, the quality of the trails hosting the weekend's riding is what the event has become known for and Croeser is once again looking forward to returning to twists and turns through the Sappi plantations and surrounds.
"Karkloof has some of the best trails in the world!" enthused the Kargo star. "It is probably one of the best marathon courses on the South African circuit so I'm really looking forward to racing there again!"
With Friday night's Karkloof Night Race, Saturday's Stihl Karkloof Enduro and a wide variety of distances to choose from on Sunday, the festival has something for everyone.
"The more people that attend the event and compete, the better the racing will be and so the bar gets raised and the event continues to improve," said Hill.
"Whether you're preparing for Worlds, looking to qualify for the Rainbow Challenge or just hoping to have some fun doesn't matter, it will be a great weekend of mountain biking at Karkloof this weekend and some great racing throughout the categories will unfold I'm sure!"
Riders and spectators can follow news and developments via the event's Facebook page (Karkloof Mountain Bike Club) or on Twitter (@KarkloofMTB). More info can also be found at www.karkloofmtb.co.za
Pictures: Anthony Grote / Gameplan Media