The thrills and spills of high-octane bicycle riding and running through scaffold bridges, floating bridges and unseen green belts characterised the Jozi Urban Mountain Biking Adventure (JUMA) and the all-new adventure-packed Hollard Jozi Urban Run Adventure (JURA).
The two adrenalin-filled sporting activities were hosted on Saturday, 24 and Sunday 25 August 2019 at Marks Park in Emmarentia in partnership with Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo and insurance giant Hollard.
The Hollard JUMA, as the bicycle ride is affectionately known, offered mountain bike adventure junkies a ride through the heart of the biggest urban forest in the world, northern Johannesburg, as they pumped up adrenalin in a fun way.
Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Community Development in the City of Johannesburg Cllr Nonhlanhla Sifumba said: “It is encouraging to see people participate in activities that impact their well-being.”
The mountain bike ride featured a 22km route for first-time riders, the most popular, arduous 54km route and the newly launched 72km punisher route for anyone looking to push their limits. There were also 1km and 2km fun routes for the kids.
Both runners and cyclists had to conquer obstacles like riding through inflated obstacles, running or cycling above the Emmarentia Dam and manoeuvring a kilometre-long storm-water drain.
Runners had the option to choose to conquer a series of optional obstacles such as a 50m waterslide, five mountainous blow-ups and a floating bridge amongst other fun challenges.
The City’s EMS firefighters hogged the spotlight when they did push-ups at the finish line and were applauded by onlookers for having run the 12km race in their bunker gear.
About 500 free entries were offered to development runners and cyclists to make exercising fashionable and fitness a tempting experience, as part of embracing sport development.
“When Joburgers come together to participate in multi-sport activities, opportunities are presented, being it social or economic, the impact is always huge,” said MMC Sifumba.
Russell Willis, the event organiser, said the races offered participants irrespective of their fitness level a good workout.
The adventure-filled weekend also featured music, food, a kiddies’ play area, craft beer and plenty of entertainment courtesy of the Joburg Theatre and its mobile truck, that have attendees a thumping good time.
