Cara Cara Mountain Biking Event Supports Anti-Poaching In Kruger National Park

The annual Cara Cara MTB (mountain biking) race was presented on 7 September 2013 at Ruby River Resort in the Groblersdal area near Loskop Dam.

The 7th anniversary of this race attracted 323 mountain bike cyclists who participated in respective categories of 10 km, 35 km, 70 km as well as a trail run over 10 km.

The Cara Cara MTB event refers to the red-fleshed navel oranges which are common to the area and can be distinguished by their rosy pinkish to deep red flesh, locally known as blood oranges. These medium sized navels have an exceptionally sweet flavour, are low in acid and were discovered at the Hacienda de Cara Cara in Venezuela in 1976 as a cross between varieties.

The organizers of the event are two Groblersdal residents who are passionate about their community; Andrew Collett and Ruperd Venter. Each year, the proceeds of the event are contributed to a meritorious case or individual who are in need.

The plight of our rhinos is currently a highly controversial matter and it was decided to contribute the proceeds of this event to SANParks Honorary Rangers of the Highveld Region in their support to the anti-poaching project in Kruger National Park.

The route of the race had a fair mix of long rolling hills through the picturesque Loskop Valley and the beautiful Ruby River Resort was an ideal venue for this family event. The cyclists were thrilled to contribute some of their energy and sweat in support of the war against rhino poaching and thereby contributing to our precious natural heritage.

For more information: http://www.sanparksvolunteers.org/

By:
 SANParks Honorary Rangers