MOSSEL BAY NEWS - A record number of participants, 1 800, took part in the 22nd Grootbrak Grabadoo on 31 December.
Setting off from the Great Brak River Sports Grounds in Long Street, the year-end family-fun event offered well-tested cycling and run/walk routes to suit each entrant’s fitness level.
But this year, festivities carried on way beyond the finish line.
Race director Alewijn Dippenaar said this year, a completely new concept was introduced to the event: The Race Village.
The Race Village featured boerie rolls and pancakes prepared by the local DR Church ladies, coffee and a variety of sweet treats.
Dippenaar added that all people over the age of 18 received a beer to quench their thirst.
He said there was also a live performance by singer Marius du Bruyn, who, Dippenaar said, ensured an incredible atmosphere with his music.
The Grabadoo is fun for the whole family. Photo: Deds Photography
Dippenaar added that the raffling of an Avalanche bicycle added great excitement to proceedings, with the 200 tickets available sold within moments.
“The winner was ecstatic to gain this incredible bike, and the raffle made a further positive contribution to the day,” he said.
For the event itself, the feedback from the racers saw high praise for the 32 marshals who were on duty and the well-stocked water points.
He further thanked all those involved, from the medics on standby to the provincial, the municipal traffic officials stationed at intersections to all the sponsors.
The race is for cyclists, runners and those who just want to walk. Photo: Deds Photography
“Finally, we are grateful to each family who supported us. Noteworthy this year was the significant number of kids and dogs, the increase in youngsters on the cycling route being particularly gratifying," said Dippenaar.
“There is no other race like this in South Africa, making the last day of the year extra special. Recording our biggest field ever, with about 50% walkers and 50% cyclists, 2025 proved a flagship December event for the village of Great Brak River and Garden Route at large," he said.
The start of the Grootbrak Grabadoo. Photo: Deds Photography
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