Lesotho Sky MTB Race leads you through the breathtaking scenery of Lesotho

In the move in the 'Kingdom of the Sky'

Watch a clip of the Lesotho Sky 2011



Lesotho is a parliamentary monarchy, completely surrounded by South Africa, about as big as Belgium and it’s well-known for the mountainous landscape and its pristine nature. This is also the reason for Lesotho’s nickname 'Kingdom of the Sky', since it’s the only independent country of the world that lies entirely above 1000 metres of sea level and about 80 percent of the national territory is above 1800 metres. The altitude and the alpine environment distinguishes this place as a heaven for hikers, skiers and of course mountain-bikers.

To attract endurance athletes from all over the world and share the spell of this land, a mountainbike race, called Lesotho Sky MTB Race, is going to take place from the 13 to 18 November 2011 in Lesotho. In six days more than 500 km are going to be put aside and a height of 14 000 metres is going be climbed. It’s a truly sophisticated race and the first of its kind in Lesotho. What makes it so attractive in the first place is the geographical location and the gorgeous setting. The climate is cooler than in most other places of the same latitude and therefore there is neither malaria nor bilharziosis. Additionally it’s kind of a dream for every mountain-biker to drive through such beautiful surroundings.

Small but mighty

The race starts in Morija, a tiny little town south of the capital Maseru and takes you deep into the heart of Lesotho. The number of attendees is limited to a maximum of 40 persons and to be able to take part in it, you have to be older than 16 years, be healthy and up to the mark. Furthermore you need a properly functioning bike and during the whole race you have to wear a helmet. To digest all those unforgettable impressions and get some recreation, the accommodation offers you a comfortable bed, and dinner and breakfast are included. The participation fee is 10 000 Rand per person and includes the following: accommodation, meals, transport within Lesotho, a welcoming package and insurances.

On top, the race supports a social project in Lesotho. Per rider and every traveled kilometre during those six days, one Rand will be donated to the Ha Matela Youth Centre. So with 40 participants and about 500 km being traveled, the amount roughly adds up to 20 000 Rand. Funds will go towards books for the library and school fees for children.

Organiser Christian Schmidt, who partially grew up in Lesotho, and who decided to move back from Germany to southern Africa some time ago, aims to promote Lesotho as a destination for tourists: “It's going to be a remarkable event and will include brilliant biking through the kingdom of Lesotho.” Furthermore it’s a great possibility for the cycle industry to support Lesotho and local initiatives through their commitment.

It’s a really unique experience to discover Lesotho and to check out your personal limits. Since all the sweat and the pain will be for something good, it makes it even more rewarding.

The entries for the Lesotho Sky MTB Race 2011 are already full, but they do have a waiting list.

by Julian Friesinger

 
Lesotho Sky MTB Race
Christian Schmidt | Cape Town | +27 (0)72 545 9032 | www.lesothosky.com

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