This weekend (9 to 11 December 2011) the usually tranquil Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve will awaken to the sounds of rubber thrumming tar, adrenaline-fuelled screams and maybe even a few cries of terror as the South African Gravity Riders don their helmets and test their nerves in the hell-for-leather annual Hot Heels Africa World Cup event. It’s the long, smooth and steep course with tight turns along the Buffelsdam access road that attracts the world’s top luge and downhill competitors who will battle it out for top honours in this, the final event of the year.
Friday is a practice session, Saturday qualifying and Sunday the big race day. There will be sponsor and downhill product stalls, drinks will be available but bring your own too but no fires allowed so leave your braai at home. Sunscreen, hats, chairs and your cameras are a must bring. If you’re thinking of overnighting look for accommodation in Pringle Bay here.
Still not convinced? Watch the video here.
It’s going to be epic, see you there.
Hot Heels Flyer
Dates
9th, 10th, and 11th of December 2011.
- Practice : 9th of December 2011
- Qualifying : 10th of December 2011
- Racing : 11th of December 2011
Categories
- Street Luge
- Classical Luge (Butt Board)
- Junior Standup Downhill Skateboard
- Open Standup Downhill Skateboard
Venue
Kogelberg Biosphere off R44 between Rooi Els and Pringle Bay
Details
Hot Heels Africa has been held every year since 2003 and is one of the longest IGSA downhill events. Being the last race of the year, it attracts the world’s top riders to battle it out for the number one spot on the World Cup Series Championship Rankings, which produces extreme action down the Buffelsdam access road in the Kogelberg Biosphere Nature Reserve just outside Pringle Bay.
Entrance Fee
R30 for adults & R15 for scholars on Race Day, the 11th of December 2011
Directions
From Cape Town get onto the N2 highway and head past the airport and Somerset-West until you reach the R44 turnoff to the right towards Gordons Bay and Kleinmond. Follow this until you come to a T-junction and turn left. Carry on along the spectacular coastal road until you reach Rooi-Els. You then go up a hill away from the coast for and after about 3 kms you will see a turn off to the left, with signs and banners for Hot Heels.
Important Information
- Parking will be available with a spectator shuttle up to the race course
- Event / race programs will be available
- A SAGRA market will be set up with stalls showcasing sponsors and downhill products
- No pets and no open fires are allowed.
- Refreshments will be available at the SAGRA market but spectators can also bring their own.
- Bring sunscreen, hats and camping chairs
Contact Details
Photos by Pierre van der Spuy
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