Cycling South Africa is proud to announce a groundbreaking three-year partnership with the Absa Karkloof Country Club, which promises to transform the mountain biking (MTB) landscape in South Africa. This collaboration is set to elevate the sport while driving youth development and community upliftment through a series of premier events and initiatives.
A key highlight of this partnership is that the Sappi Karkloof Classic, already a cornerstone of South Africa’s MTB calendar, will now serve as the official South African Marathon Championships from 2025 to 2027. Plans are already underway to make this event even more spectacular, providing top riders and teams with increased exposure and a more competitive racing environment.
In April, the South African Enduro Cup will be hosted at Karkloof, alternating annually with the South Africa Enduro Championships, adding further prestige to the venue’s calendar. Additionally, the South African Gravel Championships will be held in August 2025, with continuous improvements planned to cater to both top competitors and amateur participants as this growing discipline gains traction. This event will also alternate with a South African Cup race each year.
Another standout feature of the partnership is the introduction of the South African Youth MTB Festival in the July school holidays; an event dedicated to nurturing the next generation of MTB talent. This action-packed weekend will focus on skill development and provide young riders with a platform to showcase their abilities in a supportive environment. National competitions will see Sprogs and Nippers racing for South African Championship titles in XCC (Cross-Country Criterium) and Enduro, with additional XCM events specifically tailored for younger riders, including the South African XCM Champs for youth categories.
The combination of Karkloof’s world-class MTB trails and the support of committed sponsors such as Absa and Sappi promise to be a game changer for the sport. The partnership will enhance events, improve facilities, and create more opportunities for riders of all levels, ensuring a high-quality experience for everyone involved.
Absa Karkloof Country Club, a leading MTB destination since the Karkloof Classic’s inception in 1991, is now set to offer an even more robust calendar of events and improved infrastructure. This partnership goes beyond competitive racing, as both Cycling South Africa and Karkloof are deeply committed to community development and education. The club, which employs over 20 full-time staff and supports local education through its Early Childhood Development Centre, has a 300km trail network open to members and day visitors, promoting active, healthy lifestyles.
This collaboration ensures that Karkloof’s valuable resources will continue to grow, benefiting the sport and the wider community. The Sappi Karkloof Classic, which has evolved from a small local race to one of South Africa’s premier MTB events, will remain the flagship race of the partnership, with backing from long-term sponsors like Sappi, aQuelle, Stihl, Timber Solutions, Spring Meadow Dairy, and now Absa.
Cycling South Africa and the Absa Karkloof Country Club are excited about the future and the opportunities this partnership will bring to the MTB community. Together, they are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and world-class environment for riders while advancing the sport at grassroots and competitive levels.