Entries are now open for the famed and feared Momentum Medical Scheme Attakwas Extreme, presented by Biogen, a race known as the Hell of the South for good reason.
Temperatures in the Klein Karoo can soar in January, the Attakwaskloof is formidably rocky, and the rolling roads in the second half of the 120-kilometre-long course are corrugated and packed with climbs that should not be written off as rollers.
All told, it is a brutal way to start a cycling season, but for riders who have big aspirations for the year ahead or those who simply want to prove themselves as tough enough, it is the perfect way to start the year!
Entries are open
Mountain bikers can now sign up for what could well be the toughest day of cycling in 2027.
Entries to the 21st edition are open, and benefit from an early-bird discount to the full Extreme distance, as well as the Half and Mini events, until the 31st of July this year.
Dryland Rewards members can also earn points by entering through the Dryland Rewards mobile application. These points will then count towards discounts on future event entries. Further savings can be made by using the Entry Ninja referrals programme.
Anyone who enters from the unique referral link that users can generate after entering a R250 voucher for the referrer to spend on a Dryland event entry at a later date.
2027 route
As in 2026, the 2027 Momentum Medical Scheme Attakwas Extreme, presented by Biogen, will take a slightly easier approach to the Attakwaskloof.
This should help riders reach the kloof, as well as the gravel roads on the Eastern side of the kloof, fresher. In 2026, this led to faster times and a record 97% finisher’s rate. Only 20 of the 745 starters failed to finish.
Something for everyone
Alongside the 120km Extreme, the event boasts two shorter distance races which start and finish at Pine Creek Resort in Great Brak River.
The 47km Half is the ideal marathon distance for junior racers, and serves as a good introduction to XCM racing for school-aged mountain bikers who predominantly race in the cross-country format in Schools League events.
The 32km Mini is suitable for older primary school competitors and acts as a feeder event for the Half.
E-MTB riders are welcome to enter both the Half and Mini events, but open category and older riders should note that only junior competitors will be rewarded at the Half and Mini prize giving ceremonies.
Early birds catch the discount
Entries to the 2027 Momentum Medical Scheme Attakwas Extreme, presented by Biogen, opened on Monday, 2 March 2026.
Early bird entry fees will apply until 31 July this year, and participants who wish to receive an official finisher’s garment will need to confirm their entry before 16 November 2026.
For more information or to enter online, visit www.atta.co.za. For insights into what it takes to conquer the Hell of the South, follow @attakwasmtb on Instagram or like the Momentum Medical Scheme Attakwas Extreme, presented by Biogen, Facebook page.
