The Momentum Medical Scheme Tankwa Trek, presented by Biogen, is more than just a challenging mountain bike stage race, it is also South Africa’s premier UCI S1 stage race and feature-packed adventure for every level of rider.
The world-class event features a welcoming race village, accommodation upgrade options, famously well-stocked water points, and a chill zone where amateur riders rub shoulders with some of the world’s most famous mountain bikers.
The 2025 event will take place from the 6-9 February and riders are encouraged to enter now to beat the price increase and secure race apparel with their entry.
Famous race village
One of the event’s best features is its Kaleo race village. Located just over two hours from Cape Town International Airport and a shade less from the city’s central business district, it is remarkably easy to get to, and all four stages start and finish in the same venue for added convenience.
Lush lawns and old oak trees make Kaleo a welcoming oasis of emerald green in a landscape of pale olive hues. Tents are pitched under the trees and bedouins provide shelter from the harsh African sun for the dining area and Chill Zone.
Along with recovery sports massage treatments and the services of the race medical centre on site, the Chill Zone is instrumental in preparing riders for the next stage. The Bokveld heat can be oppressive, so relaxing in the shade is the first step towards recovery.
Riders can also enjoy complimentary Biogen rehydration drinks, Bavaria Malt 0% non-alcoholic beers, and Rhodes Quality fruit juices to replace lost fluids. Snacks, both healthy and sweet, are available all afternoon and the mid-afternoon pancakes are a sure-fire win.
A leisurely walk or a quick spin away, a deep and cold farm dam offers a further tonic for tired legs.
Spectacular routes
However, the centralised race village does not detract from the riding. It is rare that a race can find such diversity from a central point.
The Koue Bokkeveld is tailormade for mountain bike stage racing. A vast plain, dotted with sandstone boulders and a patchwork of orchards is encircled by rugged mountains and hills.
On Stages 1 and 4 the route remains relatively close to Kaleo Guest Farm, utilising the natural features of the Bokveld to provide challenges and thrills.
The course heads west on Stage 2 into the Witzenberg Valley, a fabled landscape synonymous with stage racing in South Africa.
Stage 3 is the day most riders eagerly anticipate or quietly dread. It features an ascent of the Merino Monster, arguably the country’s most iconic off-road climb. From the Ceres Valley floor far below, the full climb gains 1,200m in 23km. The final 7.78km is the Monster, a proper climb gaining 712m in elevation at an average gradient of 8.8%.
Currently, Matthew Beers and Candice Lill – at 36 minutes and 26 seconds, and 44 minutes and 47 seconds, respectively, hold the King and Queen of the Mountain titles.
Upgrade options
Riders can also choose to upgrade their experience at the Momentum Medical Scheme Tankwa Trek, presented by Biogen.
Facilitated by Dryland’s partner Avis, riders can hire an Avis Safari Vehicle complete with rooftop tent or camping system for a discounted rate when booking via the event organiser’s partner link.
To take up this upgrade, entrants will need to book a campervan slot in the race village. Should a standard rental car suffice, riders can book luxury tent upgrades; which include white linen, camp chairs, and electricity for charging devices in the canvas dome tents.
All told it, is no surprise that many top amateur and elite mountain bikers choose to include the event in as part of their season. Some even start their racing seasons at Kaleo.
Over the years, riders as decorated as Nino Schurter, Pauline Ferrand-Prévot, Karl Platt, Mona Mitterwallner, Filippo Colombo, Anne Terpstra, Henrique Avancini, and Annie Last have lined up alongside South Africa’s best.
To join the 2025 Momentum Medical Scheme Tankwa Trek, presented by Biogen, visit www.tankwatrek.co.za. Book now to benefit from the early-bird rate. Entry fees increase from R23,800 for a standard entry to R25,900 at midnight on 30 November 2024. The 30th is also the cut-off for receiving race apparel with your entry, so act fast!