Bigger, better Buff

MOSSEL BAY NEWS - For the first time Hartenbos will host the annual Buffalo Rally and thousands of biking enthusiasts are expected to arrive this week for a fun-filled weekend starting on Friday, 12 April.

Unlike previous years, this year's Buff takes place during April and in somewhat cooler weather, with average daytime temperatures of 20 degrees Celsius forecast for the weekend. This, however, has not dampened the participants' gusto.

The organisers, the Nomads Motorcycle Club of Cape Town, has indicated that a bumper crowd is expected.

Bookings are up on previous years. The change of venue is expected to also boost tickets sales at the gate.

The programme for the festivities follows much of the proven recipe for success, with popular bands billed to perform in the marquee tent pitched at the Hartenbos Amphitheatre.

The programme includes performances by Ash to Ash, the Axenmore Band and Kiss the Sky Band.

Several free options for locals to participate in the fun are offered, with the annual mass ride through town probably one of the most popular events.

Thousands of residents are expected to line the streets as the route this year is somewhat longer but still includes a drive around the Point and through KwaNonqaba.

Nomads Motorcycle Club president, Luderick Jacoby, says the mass ride will be following much the same route as always.

"The difference this year is that we start at the ATKV Resort, follow Louis Fourie Road, turn left into George Road and then go around the Point.

Then, as we descend from KwaNonqaba, we turn left into Louis Fourie and return to the resort. We depart from the ATKV Resort at 11:00 and should reach the Point area by 11:25, depending on the traffic.

"This mass ride usually also attracts scores of motorcyclists from across the Southern Cape, who flock to Mossel Bay to participate in the Saturday morning excitement. The mass ride departs the festival arena on Saturday morning at 11:00.

Earlier, at 10:00 the participants in this year's concourse d'elegance will depart for the Garden Route Casino, where the show and shine bikes will not only be showcased, but the public will be afforded an opportunity to interact with the owners.

Then follows the thrilling stunt show by the Le Riche Brothers, Brent and Bruce, which starts at 12:00 and always offers enthusiasts an unforgettable display of skill and daring.

The demarcated area for the 2019 Buffalo Rally in Hartenbos.