GARDEN ROUTE AND KAROO NEWS - Knysna takes centre stage in the cycling world this weekend as it hosts the start of Nedbank Gravel Burn – the seven day, 800km gravel bike race that is set to showcase South Africa’s diverse landscapes from the leafy Garden Route to the arid Great Karoo and onwards to the Eastern Cape, finishing in iconic African bushveld at Shamwari Private Game Reserve.
Riders from around the world have begun arriving in Knysna, filling hotels and guest houses across town.
Registration takes place on Saturday 25 October at The Moorings hotel, which will also serve as the official start on Sunday 26 October.
From there, 500 riders will roll out on Stage 1, beginning their journey through forests, over mountain passes and across the vast open plains of the Karoo.
Nedbank Gravel Burn celebrates endurance, adventure and South African storytelling.
After their days of endeavour, riders will camp under the stars in remote Burn Camps along the way, where access to the race is limited to competitors and crew. This makes the start in Knysna the only public opportunity to experience the race in person.
Where to watc
Spectators can watch the start at The Moorings on Sunday to see the riders set off at 08:30.
Enjoy a Vida e Caffè coffee, pick up a copy of the official race magazine and be part of the excitement as the 500-strong field rolls out through Knysna.
The route takes riders up Simola Hill with sweeping views over the town, then through the coastal forests before ascending Prince Alfred’s Pass on their way to Avontuur, the site of the first Burn Camp.
Who to look out for
The field includes Olympic Champion and Tour de France stage winner Tom Pidcock, Paris Roubaix Femmes champion Alison Jackson, and many of the world’s leading endurance riders.
They will compete for a share of the $150,000 prize purse, the largest in global gravel racing and for the honour of lifting the handcrafted Fire Starter Trophy.
For Knysna, the event brings a welcome opportunity to share its natural beauty, hospitality and sense of community with visitors from around the world.
Follow the action
The race will be featured in a 26 minute daily television show on SuperSport Action each evening at 21:30 during race week.
It will also be covered across global cycling media and the event’s social channels, placing Knysna firmly on the international cycling stage.
Be part of it
Residents are invited to watch the start and bring their ‘Knysna energy’ to this special occasion of the inaugural Nedbank Gravel Burn start.
For more information, visit www.gravel-burn.com or follow @gravel_burn on social media for live updates, race stories and behind the scenes coverage.
After their days of endeavour, riders will camp under the stars in remote Burn Camps along the way.
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