FatTracks AGM: 27 November 2021

On 27 November, 2021 the FatTracks Mountain Bike Club held its AGM. After four years of dedicated service, Andrew Rist stepped down as Chair, and newly-elected Chairman, Pieter Labuschagne took on the role. We also welcomed some new members to the committee (see below).

Andrew highlighted the highs of 2021 including the phenomenal growth of the club. We ended the year on 408 memberships in total. The total number of members (including spouses and children) was 1219.

There was also a focus on trail upkeep and almost 100 indigenous trees were planted in the Baakens Valley.

Our members also enjoyed the benefits of our trail affiliation with Norm Hudlin, Crazy Dave’s and access to Hayterdale plus reduced glamping rates.

Our dedicated committee and the trails subcommittee continued to manage the events, memberships, finances, maintenance, and trail building of the club.

In 2021, our trail builders:

• Used 270 metres of weed-eater cord
• Used 120 litres of fuel
• Put in 3072 trail hours
• Moved 220 tons of ground
• Chopped and moved 1.2 tons of wood (invader species and fire hazards)

Going forward into 2022

FatTracks needs to unpack how the world is evolving and be dynamic to the needs of mountain bikers in the city. We will have a specific focus on catering to the needs of youth and senior riders. We’ll be starting a regular Tuesday ride (Newbie Tuesday) to introduce novice riders to the Valley and the various trails at a beginner’s pace.

We will continue to develop the trail centre for family use.

We will continue our relationships with local trails like Norm Hudlin, Hayterdale, and Crazy Dave’s.

The elected members of the 2022 Committee include:

• Chairman: Pieter Labuschagne
• Treasurer and Vice Chair: Dee Hayter
• Trails: Andrew Rist,   Sub-committee: Warren Guscott, Quintin Bezuidenhout, Clint Rielly
• Merchandise: Curt Roberts
• Events: Vicki Laing & Andrea von Holdt
• Trail Forks: Niki Mizen and Steve Craddock
• Admin: Claire Warneke