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The South African mountain bike events industry has taken a significant knock as a result of varying restrictions over the past two years. By association, professional mountain bike racing teams have been left in a state of uncertainty, with some unable to continue into 2022. Pyga Euro Steel, however, has weathered the storm and will head into the new year with sights firmly set on more racing success and a unique opportunity for a new partner brand.  There’s an opportunity for a new sponsor to invest in the Pyga Euro Steel team from 2022 with highly visible helmet and cap space available. | Photo: Mediatic Studios Started in 2013 by London Olympian, Phil Buys, Pyga Euro Steel is one of the most established mountain bike racing teams in South Africa, consistently finishing on podiums at all the country’s high-profile races, including XCO Events, Marathons and Stage Races. There’s also a full-time staff contingent that ensures the team only has to worry about racing, making sure the bikes and gear are always race-ready and that the team’s transport, accommodation, food and media are all managed to world-class standards. Despite the disruption of a mid-year harder lockdown, the past 12 months were highly successful for Pyga Euro Steel. Gert Heyns and Matthys Beukes won KAP Sani2c with Buys and Pieter du Toit claiming the runners-up spot. The postponed Absa Cape Epic delivered one of its toughest editions to date, with Buys and Du Toit finishing a strong sixth overall and winning the African Jersey. The team concluded the year on a high with Buys and Heyns capturing the hotly contested FNB Wines2Whales title.
 Started in 2013, Pyga Euro Steel is one of the most established professional mountain bike racing teams in South Africa. | Photo: Mediatic Studios  It takes a full-time staff complement to ensure Pyga Euro Steel maintains its top-tier team status. | Photo: Mediatic Studios NEW PARTNER OPPORTUNITY “Going into 2022, we have an opportunity for another brand to invest in the team. Finding appropriate branding space within an established, successful team can be challenging, but we have decided that the team helmets (on the bike) and caps (off the bike) are available should any brands be keen on an association with a top South African racing team,” said Buys. “Obviously it’s more than just having your logo on one of the most visible places on our riders, it’s also about having access to the riders for corporate events as well as developing a relationship with our other team sponsors and partners. We also invest in high quality, consistent media content, which ensures our sponsors and riders are always in the public eye.” “We are very grateful to Euro Steel for their ongoing support, enabling us to maintain and build the team structure. The Covid-19 period has been exceptionally tough on the economy and the sport but Euro Steel has continued to offer its support, which really does make a significant impact,” said Buys. Euro Steel is one of the South Africa’s largest local distributors and exporters of stainless steel, special steels, aluminium and other corrosion-resistant materials. The company has been the team’s title sponsor, delivering financial support since 2017. “Insecurity can have an effect on the performances of athletes. But with the backing of Euro Steel and our other sponsors, we have had the peace of mind that allows us to focus on what we’re paid to do – race fast and be positive mentors to others,” added Buys. “The past two years have been a trying time for the bike industry, but Pyga has maintained its commitment to ensuring we have the best bikes on which to perform. For that we are most grateful and we look forward to continuing to confirm the impressive performance capabilities on this proudly South African brand in the new year,” said Buys. The team has finalised a full racing schedule for 2022, including all the major one-day races, all the high-profile stage races, including the Absa Cape Epic and South African Cup XCO races. For more information on the team, visit www.africanmtbteam.com or make direct contact with Ruan: ruan@africanmtbteam.com; 0823591743; or Philip philip@africanmtbteam.com 0825572081 ENDS. Source: Roots Media Content
 Pyga Euro Steel teams claimed first and second places at the 2021 KAP Sani2c – pictured from left: Matthys Beukes, Pieter du Toit, Phil Buys and Gert Heyns. | Photo: Mediatic Studios
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.The New PYGA MoBu In January of 2020, Matthys Beukes and Philip Buys were the first, to test the prototype PYGA's. Matthys and Philip saw huge time and performance increases thanks to the exceptionally designed PYGA MoBu's. Thanks to Pat and the team from PYGA.  2020 Euro Steel Drak Descent A weekend spent around like minded people is definitely one we won't forget. The 2020 Edition of the Euro Steel Drak Descent was definitely worth the trip and the trails were sublime. Was great seeing three adventure sports coming together to enjoy the finest scenery South Africa has to offer. Well done to the Trail runners, Paddlers and Mountain Bikers who spent the weekend in and around Underberg. A big thank you to Euro Steel for hosting a spectacular event. 2020 Momentum Medical Scheme Attakwas Extreme presented by Biogen Our first race of the season was the well known Attakwas. Matthys Beukes finished in 2nd behind a talented Matt Beers from then Team NAD Pro Cycling. Youngster Wessel Botha finished in 3rd with Philip Buys taking the KOM (King of the Mountain) for the day.  .2020 Momentum Medical Scheme Tankwa Trek The first big stage race for the year with a massive international field. It also features a UCI category making it a big deal for our pro's, hoping to rank up for world championships. Matthys and Philip rode together finishing in 4th GC after the three days of racing. Our second team consisting of Phillimon Sebona and Pieter Du Toit managed a 20th place. SA MTB XCO Cup Mankele Our first XCO race of the season, where Philip Buys placed 4th, in-front of youngster Pieter Du Toit in 10th. Both athletes are well-known on the cross-country scene. Imbuko Big5 Challenge New on the calendar. We headed to Wellington for the gruesome 75-kilometre route, seeing riders ascend for 3020 meters in total. Philip Buys finished 1st after the day of racing. DSV pro-cycling rider Gert Heyns, now riding for PYGA Euro Steel managed 2nd in-front of Matthys Beukes claiming 3rd. Pieter du Toit rounded out the mountain bikers podium in 5th. 2020 ABSA Cape Epic More prepared than ever but the start of the 2020 #Covid19 Lockdown, where the year started changing dramatically. We were more prepared than ever for the race. We want to say thank you to our sponsors and partners, athletes, media, management and logistics for the preparation for an event that got cancelled unexpectedly on the 14th of March, one day prior to the start. Indoor Training Whilst in lockdown we spent a lot of time on our indoor trainers which also proved very valuable with much more consistent training routines and numbers. This really taught us how to keep focussed in uncertain times. 24 Hour Challenge On the 11th of April, whilst in level 5 lockdown, Matthys Beukes rode for a total of 24 hours around his residence. He completed 255 kilometers with 1,686 meters of verticle ascent. The result of being locked inside for 2 months. LOCKDOWN1000 After completing 24 full hours of riding, Matthys Beukes got another great idea. On the 27th of April Matthys decided that he will set out to ride 1000 kilometres, again around a lap in his yard. He rode for 5 days and finished on the 3rd of May. Matthys raised money for HEFund alongside Nika Capital for relief during the #Covid19 pandemic. Phillimon Sebona leaves the team to join C2R In June of 2020, Phillimon Sebona gets the amazing opportunity to start a new journey alongside C2R. We believe in development, and we believe that Phillimon has a bigger purpose to his cycling career and glad that he is able to develop future stars in our much-loved sport. Watch the story on https://youtu.be/0gv3qSf9x-Q RideOn App Challenges An idea generated by Philip Buys during level 4 lockdown following Covid-19 protocols. The 1st one was won by Philip Buys ahead of then Team NAD Pro cycling rider Wessel Botha and team PYGA Euro Steel member Pieter Du Toit. Philip beat them by 16 seconds on a 6-minute loop in Wolwespruit. PIET MAAK N PLAN We started a mini-series with Pieter Du Toit sharing his technical knowledge around bikes. Pieter is known for taking things apart, fixing them and putting them together again. An engineer by heart. Pieter Du Toit and his small shop in Potchefstroom welcomes PYGA Mountainbikes onboard. PYGA has been a partner to our team for a few years, and recently our athletes have started getting more personally involved with the brand. Pieter is now a trusted retailer of PYGA's in Potchefstroom in his small shop DT Cycles. Coaching with Philip Buys and Matthys Beukes Being a top-level professional cyclist takes not only fitness but many years of training and experience in races. That is why, both Philip Buys and Matthys Beukes have started their own coaching academies. For more information head to our coaching tab above. New KALAS Sportswear Distributor in South Africa Phil Buys Sports signs to be the sole importers of KALAS Sportswear in Southern Africa. Our team has raced with KALAS for many years and we have built a trust in the brand where quality and comfort in sportswear is never a doubt. PURSUIT Challenge #1 Buffelsdrift As the lockdown restrictions lighten and outdoor activities are allowed, we embarked on the first PURSUIT Challenge. A racing series where athletes are tested in a time trial format. In the first race on the 9th of August, that took place over 84 kilometres Pieter Du Toit just missed out on the prizes in 4th with Philip Buys finishing in 11th. Nissan Trailseeker #1 Buffelsdrift When we got back to some serious racing at the Trailseeker we came back with a bang. A photo finish with all three of our riders on the podium. Well done to youngster Tristan Nortje for sticking out and fighting against us all the way. Matthys Beukes in 1st, Philip Buys in 2nd and Pieter Du Toit in 3rd with a time of 2:08:02. Nissan Trailseeker #3 Van Gaalens In the third edition of the Nissan Trailseeker, Philip Buys managed to place 1st with newly formed Team Nano Times Matt Beers in 2nd. Our new team member Gert Heyns came in 3rd place, rounding out the podium for the day. Race2theSun Our biggest rivals for 2020 winning and placing second, Team Nanotime's Matt Beers and Wessel Botha. Pieter Du Toit finishing in 6th overall on his PYGA MoBu against a packed gravel bike field. Nissan Trailseeker #4 Sondela We were astonished by the race when Pieter Du Toit, our 20 y/o rider winning the fastest Trailseeker of the year with a time of 02:17:34 over 65 kilometres. Wessel Botha and Brendan van Eeden placed 2nd and 3rd respectively with Philip Buys in 4th. Schwalbe South Africa Distribution by Ikhambi Ikhambi Distribution takes over as our Schwalbe Tyre suppliers. We continue to ride with Schwalbe for the coming season. Nissan Trailseeker #5 Cullinan The last Trailseeker Nico Bell from team Nanotime claimed 1st with privateer Jan Wittaar in 2nd. Shaun-Nick Bester from Dark-Horse Wheels claimed 3rd and Philip Buys finished in 4th. Pieter Du Toit managed a respected 8th after 71 kilometres of racing. SA Cycling XCO Championships The 8th of November saw our very own Matthys Beukes taking on the first cross-country race in a while. He managed to finish in 5th. KAP Sani2C With the Sani being moved to the end of the season, weather conditions changed and we saw a wet and slippery race. Matthys and Philip finished 2nd after 2 days of racing, with day 2 being made neutral due to an unrideable Umkomaas Valley. Gert Heyns and Arno Du Toit won the race with Pieter Du Toit and guest rider Francois Theron finishing in 4th behind the duo of Keagan Bontekoning and Brendan van Eeden from Insect Science. Welcome to the Family GERT HEYNS As the season draws to a close, we welcome an old friend and fellow rider Gert Heyns back onboard our team. This creates immense excitement and we look forward to building on our results through the 2021 season.Thank you to everyone who has been with us this year. We've been through a lot and we couldn't have made it as far without such amazing people and brands behind us. Thank you 2020! Here we go 2021!
As 2020 draws to a close and we're all reflecting on the strange year, we have some exciting news for 2021. |
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“Gert is no stranger to our team. He raced in the same team as Philip Buys and Matthys Beukes from 2014 to 2016, in 2014 he won the final stage at the Cape Epic with Matthys Beukes. They also claimed the African Jersey that year. Gert will join Matthys Beukes, Philip Buys and Pieter du Toit to make up a very strong four-man team for 2021. It will be an interesting year with races being shifted around but at the same time this gives us the opportunity to spend riding weekends with our sponsors." ~ Ruan Lochner, Team manager.
Welcome, Gert!
Welcome, Gert!
 | “PYGA Mountain Bikes is honoured to have Gert Heyns join our team and we look forward to a fantastic journey. Not only do we consider Gert an amazing athlete and sportsman, but he is a true ambassador and a commensurate gentleman who will inspire many young athletes to follow in his footsteps.” ~ Richard Crouse of PYGA mountain bikes. “It is exciting and motivating to have Gert as part of the team again. With the continued support from sponsors and our long term support team, I think we will be an even more formidable unit to reckon with. Having four strong riders being very capable with any mix of pairings also lightens the pressure for everyone. Less pressure equals more fun and that translates to more speed!” ~ Philip Buys. |
“Gert is a good rider and a classy guy, and it is great news that he is joining our team! We are very good friends and I’m thrilled that Gert is with us again.” ~ Matthys Beukes
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I am super excited that Gert will be part of the team, he is a great rider and racer. At some stage races I might team up with Gert and I know he is very fast and that will also push me to become a faster rider. On and off the bike he is a great guy, I am honoured to be part of this team full of "lekker manne".” ~ Pieter du Toit.
“To have Gert join the PYGA Euro Steel family for 2021 resonates well with our company values in the efforts to strive for excellence. We are excited to see how he will complement an already strong team. We look forward to spend time with Gert next year at some of our corporate events and hope that the infrastructure provided also helps him achieve some of his personal cycling goals.” ~ Colin Wilson CEO Euro Steel.
"I’m very pleased to have someone of Gert's pedigree joining the team. Good friends with Matthys and the lads make his move an easy one. I know Gert will bring some new vigour and completion within Team Pyga Eurosteel." ~ Patrick Morewood“
“To have Gert join the PYGA Euro Steel family for 2021 resonates well with our company values in the efforts to strive for excellence. We are excited to see how he will complement an already strong team. We look forward to spend time with Gert next year at some of our corporate events and hope that the infrastructure provided also helps him achieve some of his personal cycling goals.” ~ Colin Wilson CEO Euro Steel.
"I’m very pleased to have someone of Gert's pedigree joining the team. Good friends with Matthys and the lads make his move an easy one. I know Gert will bring some new vigour and completion within Team Pyga Eurosteel." ~ Patrick Morewood“
As of 1 August 2020, KALAS will be distributed throughout Southern Africa by Phil Buys Sports. The European custom cycle wear brand brand has been part of the Stage N9NE stable in South Africa for many years and the move comes on the back of Stage N9NE entrusting the Schwalbe to Ikhambi Distribution in July.
“This move is inline with Stage N9NE’s strategy to focus on our export brands,” commented Vincent Durand, Managing Director of Stage N9NE.
“Kalas was introduced to the South African marked by Stage N9NE distribution and we've been proud to be associated with a high quality European clothing brand,” he added. “This brand has sponsored a number of local athletes including PYGA Euro Steel, of which Phil Buys is member.”
Indeed, Buys has been riding in the kit as pro racer since before the formation of PYGA Euro Steel, when KALAS signed as technical cycling kit and casual clothing partner to the Scott Factory team back in 2016.
“Phil has a great affinity with the brand and understands it and the products very well. We’re confident he and his team will be able to carry it through the legacy of high quality product at fair price with good service,” Durand said.
Buys who is still racing professionally for PYGA Euro Steel Phil has spent the past few years setting up a business platform under the Phil Buys Sports banner with the long term view of offering stability and longevity for himself and his team mates.
“We’re really privileged and honoured that Vincent and Stage N9NE chose us to take over the brand here in South Africa and I’m really excited to now be a bit more directly involved with one of the brands that we represent through the team,” Buys said.
“We’re working to build something that is sustainable in the long run and something that creates opportunities for our riders in the team to get involved in and work on, even after their riding career. This fits in well with that long term plan.”
According to Buys the structures they already have in place with the team are well suited to handle the Kalas brand here in South Africa and the transition will be slick. “We have the business structures, as well as the promotional and media structures already, so it is nice to plug the brand into those resources.”
“What is perhaps even more exciting is that it really is a quality product,” he added. “We’ve been riding in the kit for more than five years - it is kit we want to use and we know how good it is, so that makes it really easy to sell the product with confidence,” he concluded.
For more information on this exciting venture or to find out about the brand please contact:
email: orders@customwear.co.za
“This move is inline with Stage N9NE’s strategy to focus on our export brands,” commented Vincent Durand, Managing Director of Stage N9NE.
“Kalas was introduced to the South African marked by Stage N9NE distribution and we've been proud to be associated with a high quality European clothing brand,” he added. “This brand has sponsored a number of local athletes including PYGA Euro Steel, of which Phil Buys is member.”
Indeed, Buys has been riding in the kit as pro racer since before the formation of PYGA Euro Steel, when KALAS signed as technical cycling kit and casual clothing partner to the Scott Factory team back in 2016.
“Phil has a great affinity with the brand and understands it and the products very well. We’re confident he and his team will be able to carry it through the legacy of high quality product at fair price with good service,” Durand said.
Buys who is still racing professionally for PYGA Euro Steel Phil has spent the past few years setting up a business platform under the Phil Buys Sports banner with the long term view of offering stability and longevity for himself and his team mates.
“We’re really privileged and honoured that Vincent and Stage N9NE chose us to take over the brand here in South Africa and I’m really excited to now be a bit more directly involved with one of the brands that we represent through the team,” Buys said.
“We’re working to build something that is sustainable in the long run and something that creates opportunities for our riders in the team to get involved in and work on, even after their riding career. This fits in well with that long term plan.”
According to Buys the structures they already have in place with the team are well suited to handle the Kalas brand here in South Africa and the transition will be slick. “We have the business structures, as well as the promotional and media structures already, so it is nice to plug the brand into those resources.”
“What is perhaps even more exciting is that it really is a quality product,” he added. “We’ve been riding in the kit for more than five years - it is kit we want to use and we know how good it is, so that makes it really easy to sell the product with confidence,” he concluded.
For more information on this exciting venture or to find out about the brand please contact:
email: orders@customwear.co.za
 | Phillimon Sebona has played a massive role in our team over the past 3 years. Although we are parting ways professionally, Phillimon will remain dear to everyone who he has worked alongside during his time with the team. |
Phillimon has a long history inside not only the team but has also been involved with our partners and the people we work with. Everywhere he's touched, fruit has come from. Parting ways with an individual as inspiring as Phillimon is definitely not easy, but we know that he will make a big success wherever he is.
"Philli" has been there, done that. He has gained valuable experience everywhere in the cycling industry. From distribution, technical work, sales, and riding as a professional. He has worked hard to get where he is, and up until today he is continuing his journey upward in the South African cycling scene.
"Philli" has been there, done that. He has gained valuable experience everywhere in the cycling industry. From distribution, technical work, sales, and riding as a professional. He has worked hard to get where he is, and up until today he is continuing his journey upward in the South African cycling scene.
From racing at the UCI Mountain bike Marathon World Championships twice, to winning the last stage of the KAP Sani2C whilst working full time at TRAILWOLF Cycles is a massive achievement. Phillimon's new endeavor will be alongside the Curro Schools South Africa, Future Coaches Cycling, and Grit Procurement Solutions are known as C2R.
He will fulfill a management and ambassador role within the development brand, to encourage and develop the skills in young individuals heading into the cycling industry in South Africa. We re very excited. Things are happening, even during this lockdown period South Africa is facing. We only see positive things coming out of this." ~ Izak Coetzee, Co-Founder of Cycle 2 Ride
He will fulfill a management and ambassador role within the development brand, to encourage and develop the skills in young individuals heading into the cycling industry in South Africa. We re very excited. Things are happening, even during this lockdown period South Africa is facing. We only see positive things coming out of this." ~ Izak Coetzee, Co-Founder of Cycle 2 Ride
 | The only thing that doesn't change in life, is that the sun rises each morning and sets each evening."I've been a close friend of Phillimon for many years and we used to ride together back in the day. We both chased the career of being professional cyclists. Something that stood out for me about Phillimon, is that he had the perseverance to push through all the difficult times and challenges to actually achieve his dream and goal of becoming a professional cyclist." ~ Shaun Oosthuizen, Co-Owner of TRAILWOLF Cycles |
"There are three key things to me: humility, determination, and just genuine character. "Philli" has had an incredible journey in his life. He had an introduction into cycling, sunk his teeth into it and we've literally been able to see him take that opportunity and take it to the next level. He is the first black man to win a stage at a major stage race in South Africa. He took the third stage at the 2019 Sanic2C and he's also won a number of individual events." ~ Richard Crous, PYGA Mountainbikes CEO
As Team PYGA Euro Steel, and all our partners we would like to thank you Phillimon. The time we have had with you as a professional mountain bike rider in our team will never be forgotten. Our doors to you will never close and we look forward to sharing the next step in your life with you.
Take care Mr. Sebona.
Take care Mr. Sebona.
Photograph of Matthys Beukes lifting his PYGA MoBu over his head after completing #lockdown1000, captured by Deidre Cloete
As a team, we are not very familiar with ultra distanced races or rides. Especially single staged attempts at anything over 200 kilometers. Matthys Beukes, has gone and made a change to this statement, claiming 1000 kilometers over 5 days and 3 hours.
That's 200 kilometers, every day around his own house.
A new first for our team.
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Scenes of Matthys' last few laps and his emotional finish to a 1000 kilometer journey. Photographs by Deidre Cloete.
On the 11th of April, Matthys took on a challenge many other South African professional athletes have also shared in, 24 Hours around his garden during the Covid-19 Pandemic lockdown. An attempt to ride for 24 hours in close proximity is surely a big challenge for any person.
Matthys rode extremely well and conquered the ride. Completing a total of 260 kilometers in a total of 21 riding hours. This attempt landed him a few interviews and some considerable achievements during these challenging times.
But, two weeks later. Matthys went searching for something much bigger. Much, much bigger.
Matthys rode extremely well and conquered the ride. Completing a total of 260 kilometers in a total of 21 riding hours. This attempt landed him a few interviews and some considerable achievements during these challenging times.
But, two weeks later. Matthys went searching for something much bigger. Much, much bigger.
Image of Matthys Beukes on the first day of his attempt at 1000 kilometers by Deidre Cloete.
Riding for a personal achievement like 24 hours straight is surely satisfying and emotional for anyone.
Add about 750 kilometers and a good cause, and things weigh much more. It roots deeper and becomes important to thousands, maybe millions of people in the rainbow nation. That is exactly what Matthys has done. He has given hope to people that felt hopeless at times. People that felt left behind.
Before embarking on a mission like this, choosing the right organisation is crucial to the effect of the funds raised during the event. That is exactly why Matthys chose the Humanitarian Empowerment Fund NPC as the related cause. https://hefund.org/
The HEF is a South African group of individuals who have committed themselves towards assistance in helping those who do not have the means to help themselves during the countrywide lockdown. HEF operates in Gauteng and the Western Cape. Areas include the West Rand, Rand West, Westonaria, Elsies River and Bloekombos. HEF is partnered with NIKA Capital for the raising of funds during this challenge.
Add about 750 kilometers and a good cause, and things weigh much more. It roots deeper and becomes important to thousands, maybe millions of people in the rainbow nation. That is exactly what Matthys has done. He has given hope to people that felt hopeless at times. People that felt left behind.
Before embarking on a mission like this, choosing the right organisation is crucial to the effect of the funds raised during the event. That is exactly why Matthys chose the Humanitarian Empowerment Fund NPC as the related cause. https://hefund.org/
The HEF is a South African group of individuals who have committed themselves towards assistance in helping those who do not have the means to help themselves during the countrywide lockdown. HEF operates in Gauteng and the Western Cape. Areas include the West Rand, Rand West, Westonaria, Elsies River and Bloekombos. HEF is partnered with NIKA Capital for the raising of funds during this challenge.
Matthys started his challenge on Tuesday, the 28th of April 2020 and finished it 5 days later. Included in his challenges of rain and mud, Matthys also overcame sleep deprivation and many physical challenges, including blistered hands and intense muscle pain. Matthys concluded his ride with some very meaningful and passionate words.
"When people stand together, nothing is impossible!" - Matthys Beukes
"When people stand together, nothing is impossible!" - Matthys Beukes
 | The first day around his garden was surely one of the biggest challenges for Matt during his attempt. Matthys lives in George, South Africa. An area well-known for cold and rainy conditions. Not the perfect way to start the challenge. As mud packed up on Matthys' bike during his first day of riding, he didn't achieve his goal of averaging 17 kilometers per hour. He averaged only 14 kilometers per hour, creating his first mental battle. An addition to the numerous stops to clean his drivetrain and bike for optimal riding. Which he immediately stated on an Instagram story, also laying claim that "tomorrow is a new day". Matthys is well known for his positivity, willingness and going the extra mile when times get tough. |
Matthys completed the distance of a Nissan TRAILSEEKER and a Attakwas Extreme, raising over R 10,000 towards struggling families in South Africa during the Covid-19 pandemic and its devastating financial impact.
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The second day of Matthys' ride started off better, with the course drying up and conditions looking better. During a challenge like this, saving time means riding until 11 PM and getting up at 3 AM to continue pushing on to make up time and distance.
Matthys set goals for this challenge, also hoping that this would encourage donations and also a social sharing as the challenge continues. Below is a few images of challenges that Matthys had overcome over the 5 days.
During the second day of the challenge, Matthys also started facing mental challenges due to the constant remembrance of his current km's. The media updates then became increasingly difficult, leaving Matthys' wife, Michele with the difficult task of balancing updates to the team and not intruding in the mental battle Matthys needed to overcome. Michele was a massive part of the attempt at 1000 kilometers. Ensuring her husband stayed hydrated and well fed to avoid any medical difficulties that might occur.
Matthys set goals for this challenge, also hoping that this would encourage donations and also a social sharing as the challenge continues. Below is a few images of challenges that Matthys had overcome over the 5 days.
During the second day of the challenge, Matthys also started facing mental challenges due to the constant remembrance of his current km's. The media updates then became increasingly difficult, leaving Matthys' wife, Michele with the difficult task of balancing updates to the team and not intruding in the mental battle Matthys needed to overcome. Michele was a massive part of the attempt at 1000 kilometers. Ensuring her husband stayed hydrated and well fed to avoid any medical difficulties that might occur.
Nissan TRAILSEEKER, Attakwas Extreme, Wines2Whales, Berg & Bush, Sani2C, Tankwa Trek, Cape Epic, Joberg2C and the MUNGA MTB were all milestones Matthys, and the team behind him used to track progress through the challenge.
Although it might have been difficult at first, breaking up a massive effort like this into nine smaller pieces is great for one's mentality. This gave Matthys smaller distances to achieve before going for the two bigger chunks of riding. The first six, being the easiest and fastest goals to accomplish. What came thereafter was the more difficult goals. Each spaced out, almost as much as the first six goals after one another.
The last three goals is multi-day stage races, iconic to not only the South African mountain biking calendar. These races are world renowned for the toughness in distance and length. Each with their own distinct characteristics, features and stories.
The last three goals is multi-day stage races, iconic to not only the South African mountain biking calendar. These races are world renowned for the toughness in distance and length. Each with their own distinct characteristics, features and stories.
 |  After Matthys' finish, it was clear that emotionally, this challenge meant a great deal to him as an individual. Photographs by Deidre Cloete. |
"I never really wanted to sign up for this challenge but I felt like I didn’t have a choice.
Every moment of the first 3 days felt like a nightmare that I couldn’t get out off and I was looking for excuses to quit. With every passing moment, more and more people gave their support and in turn it motivated me to keep going. After 3 days of struggling, I realised that I wasn’t doing this on my own and that so many people are part of the support team, working together to make this project happen.
Getting off the bike at 00:30 and on it, two hours later on the fifth day isn't something I could've done on my own. When I saw how people climbed in backing my effort, fellow South Africans who not only believe in me, but believe in supporting one another. Something bigger stirred in my heart. This was a spiritual journey for me, and the message is that we need to stand together. It makes the impossible possible.
We will get through this. Just have faith."
Every moment of the first 3 days felt like a nightmare that I couldn’t get out off and I was looking for excuses to quit. With every passing moment, more and more people gave their support and in turn it motivated me to keep going. After 3 days of struggling, I realised that I wasn’t doing this on my own and that so many people are part of the support team, working together to make this project happen.
Getting off the bike at 00:30 and on it, two hours later on the fifth day isn't something I could've done on my own. When I saw how people climbed in backing my effort, fellow South Africans who not only believe in me, but believe in supporting one another. Something bigger stirred in my heart. This was a spiritual journey for me, and the message is that we need to stand together. It makes the impossible possible.
We will get through this. Just have faith."
Matthys has done a great deal for South Africans struggling during these difficult and uncertain times. Although he was on his bike for five days, Matthys said that he couldn't have done it without the huge group of people behind him. Every pedal stroke of the 1000 kilometers.
We thank everyone involved in this initiative. Thank you to NIKA Capital and the HEF. Everyone that donated and sent messages of encouragement. Thank you to Michele and Anabelle. Deidre Cloete for capturing amazing pictures and the rest of the team sharing Matthys' message. Together we have raised R136 000 and counting.
We want to encourage everyone reading this press-release to please continue to donate towards this cause. Even though Matthys has completed his 1000 kilometers, the fight for struggling families and individuals continue.
& as Matthys said perfectly, "together, we can do anything".
We thank everyone involved in this initiative. Thank you to NIKA Capital and the HEF. Everyone that donated and sent messages of encouragement. Thank you to Michele and Anabelle. Deidre Cloete for capturing amazing pictures and the rest of the team sharing Matthys' message. Together we have raised R136 000 and counting.
We want to encourage everyone reading this press-release to please continue to donate towards this cause. Even though Matthys has completed his 1000 kilometers, the fight for struggling families and individuals continue.
& as Matthys said perfectly, "together, we can do anything".
 | Pieter Du Toit is known as the one in the team that always finds a way to look at things from a positive standpoint. |
How are you dealing with being locked inside your house? Mentally and Physically.
So mentally I am doing great with the lockdown. Everyone around me is positive. We all are motivated to get through this. My coach gives me great training to keep my spirit high whilst on the indoor trainer. Physically I am also doing great. We are fortunate enough to stay on a rather large piece of land, and we have more than enough to keep us busy. I also have an awesome, self-built workshop in my garage where I can keep myself quite busy.
What positives are you taking from this lockdown?
I am super positive. The time spent on the indoor trainer has also been a great exercise and motivation to focus on staying positive through tough times.
What do you miss most about the trails?
Although I miss the trails, I really miss the traveling and time spent with the team much more.
Are there any skills that you are learning in this time?
So there is some skills I am trying to learn in this lockdown. The first is my cappuccino art. Secondly I am training my core strength and working on my balance. Lastly, my welding skills as my dad and I put up a steel parking roof where he teaches me all he knows about welding.
Fitness and Skill. How are you keeping up?
I think my fitness is going on strong. I am doing my training just as it is uploaded so that is great for me. I think my skills are taking a few shots, if I have to be totally honest.
You live with your family on a plot in Potchefstroom. How is this time opportunistic for quality family time?
This is some great time to spend with family. We are making the most of it . Myself and my dad were rather busy for the entire 3 weeks already and we have a lot to do still, so I am enjoying this.
What ride are you going to do when you get to ride outside? Distance, terrain and goal?
Well when the lock down ends I might do a long ride on the indoor trainer just for the joke. I also won't mind doing my favourite loop around Potchefstroom.
What is your next racing goal?
My next racing goal is to race whatever comes first, to go for the win and just to enjoy being able to do what I love after looking forward to it for so long.
 Photo by Daniel Coetzee. Edited by Milan de Beer/MEDIATIC Studios. | Philip Buys has proved himself numerous times on the mountain biking calendar. |
Being a participant in the 2012 Olympics, and numerous time South African Cross-Country and Marathon Champion, Philip surely has a knack for the trails. He answered a few questions regarding the #lockdown South Africa and other countries are facing.
Photo by Milan de Beer for MEDIATIC Studios.
How are you dealing with being locked inside your house? Mentally and Physically.
Apart from that we are not allowed to train or race outside, my day is going pretty much as usual.
I am fortunate enough to have an indoor trainer so my current riding is good enough to at least maintain fitness. I am also doing more core and stability work which is great for overall performance.
I am fortunate enough to have an indoor trainer so my current riding is good enough to at least maintain fitness. I am also doing more core and stability work which is great for overall performance.
What positives are you taking from this 21 day lockdown?
All my home improvements and maintenance will be done. I am hoping this time will raise awareness and that everyone will be more conscious and considerate towards people around them with regards to spreading any kind of virus or contagious illness.
What do you miss most about the trails?
The rush and risk of pushing my limits on the trails..
Photo by Daniel Coetzee. Edited by Milan de Beer/MEDIATIC Studios.
Is there anything that you could take from this experience?
There is a lot that you can get done online.
Are there any skills that you are learning in this time?
I did an online SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) course. I am improving my balancing on a gym ball whilst juggling.
Fitness and Skill. How are you keeping up?
I have an indoor trainer specific plan and also do a 30 minute coordination and stability exercise routine indoors. I have also activated my Zwift account, which also helps with the riding part.
You and your wife have two children. How does this time create ideal opportunities to spend time with the family?
My wife also works from home, so our routine is not much different than usual.
Photo by Milan de Beer for MEDIATIC Studios. Taken at the 2020 Attakwas Extreme.
What ride are you going to do when you get to ride outside? Distance, terrain and goal?
It will probably be a 2 hour ride to Wolwespruit with a few runs down the “flowline” and then end it off meeting the family at Spout for a coffee and fresh croissant.
What is your next racing goal, being said if the quarantine time stays 21 days?
If we look at the bigger scheme of things, my plan will be built backwards from 2021 Epic.
 Photo by Daniel Coetzee Edited by Milan de Beer/MEDIATIC Studios | For Matthys Beukes, being locked away from mountains, forests, trails and open roads around you surely provides its own set of challenges. |
Matthys is a long time local to the trails of the Western Cape, especially George. We asked him some questions and we would love to share his insights with you regarding the #covid19 lockdown South Africa is facing.
Photo and Edit by Milan de Beer/MEDIATIC Studios
How are you dealing with being locked inside your house? Mentally and Physically.
Trying to take it day by day and like everyone else, I’ve got my ups and downs. It’s tough times for most people out there and there’s no escaping the fact that it is a depressing time on planet earth. I think it's important to realize and accept and know that it isn’t a sin to be a bit down and in the dumps. Once you have come to terms with that, it's important to know that the power to turn this around lies within us all.
What positives are you taking from this 21 day lockdown?
Personally this time is filled with good rest and quality family time. I needed a bit of a reset and for me this has provided a great opportunity to start fresh.
The trails in George is definitely one of your loves, especially on the bike. What do you miss most about the trails?
The freedom.
Is there anything that you could take from this experience?
That sometimes, taking a few steps backwards is the best way forward.
Are there any skills that you are learning in this time?
I'm reading up on a few things, but between housekeeping, family time and getting my riding back on track I haven’t done as much as I would have liked.
Photo and Edit by Milan de Beer/MEDIATIC Studios
Fitness and Skill. How are you keeping up?
I'm doing a mix of general strength training and endurance on an indoor trainer. Some of my explosive/intensity training I complete on a lap I designed in the garden around the house.
You and your wife have a daughter. How does this time create ideal opportunities to spend time with the family?
Well we have plenty time now so we try and do at least one or two activities with Annabel per day to keep her stimulated.
What ride are you going to do when you get to ride outside? Distance, terrain and goal?
Most likely a four to five hour cruise, trail/gravel/road/mountain/forest/beach mix with a coffee stop.
My second option would be to have no goals, just enjoy the riding and be thankful for everything I already have in my life.
My second option would be to have no goals, just enjoy the riding and be thankful for everything I already have in my life.
What is your next racing goal, being said if the quarantine time stays 21 days?
At this moment Im not thinking about racing, I have taken a proper break for the first time in years so Im just thinking about doing my best day by day.
If I do that well, the rest will fall into place.
If I do that well, the rest will fall into place.
Each season starts long before the first race. It also does not begin in the same year but has a lifetime that is determined by the athlete. Although this is true, the build-up to a new season always proves itself within the first few race/s. That is why athletes like Matthys Beukes, Philip Buys, Phillimon Sebona and Pieter Du Toit use the festive holidays to prepare themselves for the next season of racing. Building a good base during the holidays proves itself better than you might think, especially in the first race of a season.
Phillimon Sebona warming up in the early morning hours before the 2019 Attakwas Extreme. Photographed by Milan de Beer/MEDIATIC Studios.
The "Atta" is a lot about survival, whether you are battling for the win or struggling to keep your pedals turning at 100km. We asked our athletes what advise they have regarding the race and how you can make the gruelling 121 km easier and thrive through the farm roads, mountainous climbs and rocky descents.
Young gun, Pieter Du Toit battling it out against DSV Pro Cycling mountain biker Arno Du Toit during the 2019 race. Photographed by Milan de Beer/MEDIATIC Studios.
Pieter Du Toit is the youngest cyclist within our team and has only in the past 2 years, been introduced to ultra-marathon distances. During the 2018 season, Pieter completed his first Multi-day Marathon Stage race alongside Phillimon Sebona after Philip Buys fell ill unsuspectedly.
"The race is super tough, a good thing to know from the start. Ride as hard as you can, for as long as you can. Keep hydrated and push through the tough times." ~ Pieter Du Toit
Phillimon Sebona, on the other hand, has completed every long distanced race there is, including the Munga which stretches over 1000km across South Africa. "It is essential to stay in a bunch of riders. Don't isolate yourself from the rest of the mountain bikers and you'll be just fine, especially within the first 50km."
"The race is super tough, a good thing to know from the start. Ride as hard as you can, for as long as you can. Keep hydrated and push through the tough times." ~ Pieter Du Toit
Phillimon Sebona, on the other hand, has completed every long distanced race there is, including the Munga which stretches over 1000km across South Africa. "It is essential to stay in a bunch of riders. Don't isolate yourself from the rest of the mountain bikers and you'll be just fine, especially within the first 50km."
Philip Buys, making waves after getting dropped by the leading bunch at WP2. Photographed by Milan de Beer/MEDIATIC Studios.
According to Philip, his equipment makes his job as a professional mountain biker much easier. Especially on longer races like the Attakwas. "Riding with more reliable equipment, and riding slower and a bit slower is always wise when you are facing a long race like the Atta, where you could lose up to 15 minutes if you stumble over a mechanical problem. Manage yourself well, as many riders start facing extreme levels of fatigue during the last 20km. The Attakwas is a great goal for the start of the season and keeps me motivated during the holiday season."
Matthys Beukes, the owner of the Attakwas rock and 3-time champion, also advises keeping the start to a relative pace, not burning your matches before the mountains try and break you. " The final 60km is always hard on you and your bike. Play it safe and save yourself for the last half of the race. I would advise you to keep hydrated and take in enough carbohydrates to sustain your effort.
I enjoy the Attakwas as it is one of the toughest races on the mountain biking calendar. It is also significant that it takes place around my home-town. Having my friends and family there for support is always unique and adds to the excitement of the race."
Matthys Beukes, the owner of the Attakwas rock and 3-time champion, also advises keeping the start to a relative pace, not burning your matches before the mountains try and break you. " The final 60km is always hard on you and your bike. Play it safe and save yourself for the last half of the race. I would advise you to keep hydrated and take in enough carbohydrates to sustain your effort.
I enjoy the Attakwas as it is one of the toughest races on the mountain biking calendar. It is also significant that it takes place around my home-town. Having my friends and family there for support is always unique and adds to the excitement of the race."
Matthys lifting his 3rd Attakwas rock, hoping to make it 4 out of 4 in 2020. Photographed by Milan de Beer/MEDIATIC Studios.
Good luck to everyone competing at the 2020 Atta. Don't just #surviveattakwas, #thriveattakwas.
