Skills clinic helps participants prepare for 2024 Cape to Cape MTB

The first Cape to Cape MTB Skills clinic was held September 7-8 at the Dunsborough Mountain Bike Park, led by experienced MTB coach Andy Van Kann and Graham Clarke from The Bike Shed Dunsborough.

Developed to provide an opportunity for riders just taking up mountain biking or new to racing, the clinics allowed riders to gain key mountain bike skills to ensure they have the best experience on the trails in October.

The two day clinic covered a variety of topics with the first phase looking at fitness preparation, race planning, race protocols, safety, result expectations, average speed expectations, food, hydration, bike setup and what to wear.

"Listening to the feedback from the clinic participants, I think we achieved what we had hoped. All the riders commented that they felt much better prepared for the event," said Van Kann.

"It was so good to have two previous C2C category winners in Kristen Gardner and Monique Vollprecht spend time with all the riders sharing precious experiences and stories. Event Matrix Director, Bill Hayes, also joined for a few hours adding a personal contribution to the clinic!"

Participants also had the chance to put their new skills into use as they rode part of the final stage through the Dunsborough MTB Park at a pace they will be able to ride during the race.

"I think the smiles on their faces at successfully riding the intensity of the 'Brown Street' cross country labyrinth says all that needs to be said!! All in all, a sensational, fun weekend of friendship and learning," Van Kann added.



Clinic participant Erin Phillips who rode the Cape to Cape MTB for the first time last year said, "I read the August newsletter from Cape to Cape and was thrilled to discover that a free MTB skills clinic was being offered this year. This was a fantastic opportunity for me, as I'd never participated in any coaching sessions before. I was eager to learn new techniques and to experience the Stage 4 trails, which reignited my excitement for the race."

Phillips finished third in her age group last year and sees the clinic as vital to her goal in improving on her result from 12 months earlier.

"Eight of us attended the clinic and we received a lot of one-on-one attention and valuable feedback on how to enhance our skills.

"Overall, the clinic was an invaluable experience, and I'm looking forward to applying these lessons in my future rides."

Erin's three key takeaways from the Clinic:

1 Braking Control: I learned that while the rear brake helps slow your speed, the front brake is crucial for quick stops. Previously, I relied too much on the rear brake and avoided using the front brake too much due to fear of "going over the bars." Practicing different pressures for each brake and seeing the effects on gravel helped understand their distinct roles. This skill is especially useful in situations where you need to stop quickly or navigate around obstacles and other racers on the trail.

2 Eyes Up: Although I was already scanning the trails, keeping my eyes up over jumps and rock gardens significantly improved my balance and confidence. This technique helps you anticipate obstacles and navigate more smoothly.

3 Nutrition and Hydration: Monique emphasized that nutrition and hydration are just as crucial as fitness. Her advice, “Eat your way to Dunsborough,” highlights the importance of calculating your carbohydrate needs and packing extra in case of emergencies. Setting a timer on your Garmin for every 15 minutes can help remind you to eat if you forget or if you're unable to eat while on single track. Also, don’t forget to have your recovery protein and carbs within the critical 15-30 minute window after the race. It’s easy to get distracted, but fuelling your recovery is essential for being ready for the next day.