2017 Dustin Rudman Invitational Round 1

The first round of the 2017 Dustin Rudman Invitational took place over the weekend (15 and 16 April) at the infamous Heldekruin Hill. The Downhill MTB and Enduro MTB has grown with popularity seeing a good number of riders enter the series.

Riders had the chance to get to grips with the course during the Saturday’s official practice. Rainfall over the summer played its part in eroding the course but Dustin and his team put in an amazing effort to prepare a perfectly contestable course.

Featuring rock gardens, berms, jumps, new sections and the daunting river gap, riders had to ensure a perfect run in order to get podium position times. Riders had two runs each with their fastest run counting toward the overall results.

In the premier Downhill MTB class it was Tiaan Odendaal who dominated the field by posting an incredible time of 01:07,583, over 5 seconds ahead of 2nd place, Kelvin Purchase with a time of 01:12,752. Dustin Rudman rounded off the podium in 3rd place with a time of 01:13, 176.

The Enduro MTB class was won by Brad Purchase who posted a time of 01:12,662, the seconds fastest time of the day. David Hogan finished in a close 2nd with a time of 01:12,704 and John-Michael Du Preez finished in 3rd with a time of 01:14,423.

The weekend was finished off the the crowd favorite, Huck to Flat competition. Nikki Alvin was the only lady to huck the river gap and claimed the victory for her awesome achievement.

Another great weekend of riding and racing in the books, thanks to Dustin Rudman, his team and the sponsors involved for making it happen; Afriski, G-Form, VonZipper, Shreddtech, Spank, Ride with Zeal, Rapid Studio, Gravity Hub, Bun & Bunnee, The Trailhead and TrailTech Cycles. A big shout-out also got to Great-Time for the timing system and Quick Response Service for ensuring the medics on hand.
We can’t wait for the next round, taking place on the 5th and 6th August.