For the second year running, Grindrod Bank Berg & Bush entrants will be treated to a unique rider jersey designed by the renowned artists of Ardmore Ceramic Art.

Featuring cheeky monkeys and vivid florals, the Berg & Bush rider jersey will once again stand apart on the stage race circuit. 

“The Berg & Bush prides itself on being innovative,” says event organiser Gary Green. “And by partnering with the iconic Ardmore Ceramic Art team who works of art can be found all over the world, we’ve created another special rider jersey that will really stick-out on the trails. Last year the jerseys were a massive hit, and I see it being no different this year.”

The jerseys have been manufactured by Enjoy, with the designs taking inspiration from Ardmore’s Qalakabusha range.

"Qalakabusha" the Zulu word for "new beginnings" is the name given to Ardmore Design’s first fabric collection. The range depicts cheerful monkeys, cunning crocodiles, regal leopards, joyful zebras and singing birds amid protea and other floral designs. The colours are bright and and designs bold.

The Ardmore family are thrilled to see their ‘Monkey Palm' design on this year’s ‘Berg and Bush’ cycle jerseys. Last year we used our 'Protea Fields’ design and it is exciting to see our collaboration with Berg and Bush continue to flourish. The vervet monkey is a great favourite and friend of Kwa-Zulu Natal. The Amasumpa sun-burst design is symbolic in Zulu tradition for creativity and life. These motifs seemed fitting for a race that entails vigor and vitality.

From a technical side, the jersey is from Enjoy’s best selling Supremium range. “This year we have overhauled our Supremium cycle top and it now features a low-cut neck, lengthened sleeves and a fourth security pocket for keeping phones and valuables safe,” says Enjoy’s Richard Cornish.

 “These changes, along with the vibrant design, should make for a great riding product, with Berg & Bush riders among the first in South Africa to get their hands on the new Superpremium cut, as it is only scheduled for a Spring release. We feel it’s definitely something to look forward to.” 

South Africa’s most forward-thinking mountain bike stage race just keeps keeping better, this time by upgrading their tented accommodation for every participant. No more rustling, no more rain drops falling on your head, no more accidental ride-partner cuddling (unless you like that kind of thing) and ample room to apply your chamois cream.    

Over the last few years, the Grindrod Bank Berg & Bush has earned a reputation as an event that constantly strives to improve the rider experience.

 From the purpose built bushveld trails to the welcoming race village, the Berg & Bush always goes the extra mile when it comes to looking after riders. Now the event organisers aim to help you sleep better with the introduction of high-quality canvas tents. 

    “We’ve been toying with the idea for a long time, as well as slowly introducing the canvas tent option to some riders,” says race organiser Gary Green.

    “This year we’ve decided to go all in on the canvas tents, providing our riders with an extra level of comfort for the overnight experience. We know that coming out to the Berg & Bush is a big sacrifice in time and effort, and we want to show we appreciate that effort by constantly improving the rider experience - we are confident that everyone will enjoy the new event ‘digs’.”

    The addition of the canvas tents to the Berg & Bush means that no rider will have to deal with the tiny tents associated with local mountain bike stage races, with the canvas tents also providing ample room to get dressed in the morning without resorting to Olympic-level gymnastics. 

    The Berg & Bush’s ’standard’ tents are now the large canvas tents with standing room and two event mattresses.

    Upgraded tents include the Kudu Tent and Kingfisher Tent. The Kudu is also a large canvas tent, but with two beds and mattresses, while the Kingfisher is a canvas tent with two beds, mattresses, electricity, side table, chairs, private ablutions and linen.    

    If you ask nicely after your daily ride, someone from the race office will also come around at night to tuck you in. 

    Berg & Bush 2018 tent summary:

    Standard Tent: R500 per team (large canvas tent with two event mattresses included)

    Kudu Tent: R1500 per team (large canvas tent with two beds and two event mattresses)

    Kingfisher Tent: R3000 per tent (large tent with two beds & mattresses, electricity, side table, chairs, private ablutions and all bed linen - sold out for the 2 Day).

    Riders who have already entered can access the tent options by logging back into their entry (unless sold out).

    Entries for the Berg & Bush are currently open, but close soon. To enter, visit bergandush.co.za