ASG Events and Sanlam Investments have a winning recipe in the form of the Sanlam MTB Invitational, but they continue to strive for an even better formula.

The fourth edition of the two-day event, which starts at Rhebokskloof Wine Estate on the outskirts of Paarl on November 18, is the ideal opportunity for participants to delve into the combined hospitality of the two organisations.

Sanlam Investments' head of marketing, Robert Thompson, said their "outstanding" relationship with ASG was key to the ongoing success of the event, which started out as a by-invitation-only race before being thrown open to the public.

"Mountain biking as a sport has been growing for the past 10 years and corporate mountain biking is like the new golf," said Thompson.

"There are lots of cyclists who work in the corporate environment and, at the same time, there are a lot of Sanlam supporters who cycle, so it's just a great event for them to experience."

The partnership has growth from strength to strength since the event's inception and Thompson explained the values of the two companies aligned perfectly in the quest for excellence.

Positive participant feedback was proof of the successful relationship and he said they would continue to grow the event by incrementally delivering better and better experiences.

"Our vision is to grow it but always maintain the exceptional client experience that Sanlam and ASG Events pride themselves on delivering."

He said the race was also a way to reward their clients by providing a family orientated outing.

"It's one of our ways of saying thank you to the people who have supported us and it's also an opportunity to unwind with us at the end of the year."

In addition, Thompson said the weekend was an ideal opportunity to welcome potential clients to the Sanlam family.

Besides next-level hospitality and the route, which was carefully crafted by Darren Herbst and his team, ASG Events chief Wynand de Villiers said the category for siblings was a distinguishing feature.

"It's really popular and also competitive and allows fathers and sons, mothers and daughters and so on to enjoy quality time together."

After stepping up to fill a gap in the market by providing a well-rounded two-day event, De Villiers said they were looking forward to welcoming a field of 250 teams.

"It has grown from strength to strength and is perfect for riders who want and appreciate a high-end event where attention to detail on and off the bike is of the highest priority."

The opening stage of 60km circumnavigates Paarl Mountain, followed by a 40km final day.

Go to www.sanlammtbinvitational.co.za for more information.

CAPTION: A shared vision between ASG Events and Sanlam Investments mean riders will experience exceptional hospitality and exciting routes at this year's Sanlam MTB Invitational. Photo: BrandBoom