Though renowned for its tough but rewarding routes the Momentum Medical Scheme Tankwa Trek, presented by Biogen, is more than just a challenging mountain bike stage race.
Paid partnership with Dryland Event Management
South Africa’s premier UCI S1 stage race also 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.
In 2025 it takes place from the 6th to the 9th of February and would-be riders are encouraged to enter now to beat the price increase as well as to secure race apparel with the entry.
One of the event’s best features is its Kaleo race village. Located just over 2 hours from Cape Town International Airport and a shade less from the city’s central business district, it is remarkably easy to get to. The fact that all four stages start and finish in the same venue is also a big positive. Though as any experienced campaigner knows this by no means detracts from the riding.
The Koue Bokkeveld is tailor made 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.
On Stage 2 the course heads west, 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 1 200 metres in 23 kilometres. The final 7.78 kilometres is the Monster, proper, and it gains 712 meters 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.
It is rare that such diversity can be found from a central point. Though it is beyond the access to amazing riding that the race village truly shines. 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 Bokkeveld heat can be oppressive, so relaxing in the shade is the first step towards recovery. Then there are complimentary Biogen rehydration drinks, Bavaria Malt 0% non-alcoholic beers, and Rhodes Quality fruit juices on hand to put back 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.
The opportunity to upgrade one’s experience at the Momentum Medical Scheme Tankwa Trek, presented by Biogen, is further facilitated by Avis. Dryland’s partner allows riders to 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 their season plans. 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, action visit www.tankwatrek.co.za. Entries fees increase, from R23 800 for a standard entry to R25 900, at midnight on Saturday, 30 November 2024. The 30th is also the cut-off for receiving race apparel with entries, so do not delay.
