Following an elimination format, competitors had to tackle three rounds before the winner was announced. Ten of the slowest riders were eliminated after the first two rounds, placing pressure on the remaining riders who had to then complete the final within the allotted time of 75 minutes in order to complete the race.
The riders showed incredible technical skill as they took to the newly-designed course which consisted of a number of obstacles including riverbeds, waterfalls, roots, vines, steep downhills and rocky climbs.
Red Bull’s Wade Young (Paddock) was leading the final but collided with a tree on a downhill section and injured his chest so was forced to withdraw during the final.
The 2016 defending champion, Scott Bouverie (Harding) of KTM Factory Racing took second place ahead of Blake Gutzeit (Port Shepstone) with William Slater (Hilton) taking fourth spot.
The unofficial world number one extreme enduro female rider, Kirsten Landman (Shongweni) of Brother Leader Tread KTM, made it through the first round but withdrew due to having flu.
Piwe Zulu (Port Shepstone) enjoyed the support from south coast locals and completed round one but missed the cut off to compete in the finals.
The Alfie Cox Invitational was designed as a way for both riders and spectators to enjoy some real enduro action. Many enduro fans took advantage of this unique event with the route allowing vehicular access, which meant a view from the sidelines and an atmosphere for the riders.
“All in all it has been an incredible day, the guys have really enjoyed the course and that is the most important thing, we have given them value and they have had a great day together with the Red Bull team and me. Make no mistake, it is a tough course; we had 35 of the best riders here and we only saw 12 at the finish. Well, we are not here for a haircut we are here to fight a little bit and there are a lot of guys fighting out there today,” commented Alfie Cox, 9-times winner of the Roof of Africa Rally.
