Ride mountain bikes with iconic South African sportsmen in the majestic Drakensberg for three days and support an important cause. Rugby World Cup winner, Joel Stransky, the greatest male downhill mountain bike racer of all time, Greg Minnaar, and the inspirational Caroline Matsimela will be the guests at the exclusive event, which is based at Alpine Heath from 22-25 February 2024. Here’s how to secure your spot.
Paid partnership with Absa African Icons
Summer in the Northern Drakensberg is beautiful. Sunny, hot mornings, afternoon thunderstorms, lush green foothills alive with local wildlife and mountain birdlife. The Tugela River flowing with intent near its source in the valley and the Amphitheatre and Mount-Aux-Sources towering over 1000 metres above.
Purpose-built mountain bike trails weave through this incredible landscape, making for breath-taking vistas every time the trail takes a new turn. This part of the Drakensberg has been protected from commercialism. It feels and looks very much like it did decades ago – natural, unspoiled and splendid. The Absa African Icons three-day social event will take place at this stunning location in February 2024.
If you’re quick, you can secure your entry to a three-day celebration of health, nature and humanity. It’s not a race. Three different riding groups catering for all levels of expertise, in three days at a pace you’re comfortable with, is what awaits. Socialising and networking are prominent features of this event. You’ll get to ride with and chat to Joel, Greg and Caroline in a classy environment that’s supported by leading brands, including Absa, Ciovita, Oakley, Devils Peak Brewery, Painted Wolf Wines and Biogen.
To find out more about the accommodation and daily schedule, click here.
The Absa African Icons initiative was established by Rory Steyn.
Rory is an action man. He speaks calmly and eloquently but lets his actions make the real impact. He is man of purpose too. The former policeman and personal bodyguard of Nelson Mandela started a fund in 2018 to help care for widows and orphans of South African police officers who are killed on duty. Steyn is also a mountain biker and he invites high profile sportsmen and women to assist in his African Icons fundraising events, including some of the biggest names in South African sport.
“Imagine not having a father? Almost daily, we hear of the tragic and pointless deaths of brave South African police officers serving on the front line of our fight against crime. It is never the fault of that little girl or boy if their mother or father is murdered by violent criminals. Unfortunately, we don’t always realise the full implications of police deaths and the destitute families they leave behind. In many instances, those slain officers are the breadwinners and supporters of more than just their own immediate family,” says Rory.
Read more about the Absa African Icons beneficiaries here.
With an entry limit of 50, the Absa African Icons Social MTB Tour 2024 offers an exclusive mountain biking experience. Non-riding partners are welcome at a slightly different fee. To find out more or secure your entry, click here.
