Priming the engine – how to fuel for seven days of gravel racing: part 1
In a sport where marginal gains define podium places and write names into history books, nutrition science has accelerated significantly in the last decade – moving from instinct to insight. Some riders still fuel by feel, others follow trends. When it comes to this topic there are certainly more opinions than facts, especially when it comes to the energy demands of a seven-day stage race.
From logistics to legacy – building an event that goes beyond racing
When the Nedbank Gravel Burn was first conceived, it was always intended to be more than just another cycling stage race. Founder Kevin Vermaak was resolute: this was an opportunity to spotlight often-overlooked regions – landscapes of raw, untamed beauty and communities defined by their warmth and hospitality (having grown up in the Eastern Cape added extra motivation to the initiatives). The goal was clear: to ensure that the race’s impact extended far beyond a single week in October.
Paris–Roubaix winner confirmed for Nedbank Gravel Burn’s Pro category line-up
Alison Jackson adds firepower to the women’s field for the inaugural 7-day race across South Africa. As the Pro field takes shape, the participation of one of the peloton’s most celebrated and charismatic figures: Alison Jackson. The Canadian rider, renowned for her tenacity and flair, will line up in Knysna on 26 October 2025 for the inaugural edition, cutting across South Africa’s most contrasting terrain over 7 days and 800km.
How protecting wildlife’s most vital custodians keeps nature in balance
In nature’s intricate design, every creature and plant plays a role – some quietly, some critically – each contributing to a delicate balance we so often take for granted. Among them, the vulture holds a vital place, silently safeguarding ecosystems through its crucial role in maintaining harmony. With the race passing through regions once abundant in wildlife, it was clear from our first visit to Shamwari that conservation had to be part of our story. Our partnership with Vulpro is rooted in a shared purpose: to protect our environment and help restore the balance of nature. As one of South Africa’s leading vulture-focused organisations, Vulpro works to safeguard a species that plays a pivotal role in our ecosystem.
Blog#10 – Oh, the people you meet!
Over the course of 23 years, covering 3 decades, since I first conceived the idea in 2002 for the Cape Epic, I’ve met so many wonderful people associated with the bike and sport event industry. (Coincidentally, I was reminded of this when reading “The Wubbulous World of Dr Seuss” with my children – one of the chapters is called “Oh, the people you’ll meet”.)
Nirvana Europe announced as Official International Travel Partner of Nedbank Gravel Burn
We are proud to announce a strategic partnership with Nirvana Europe, who will serve as the Official International Travel Partner for the sold-out 2025 event. Renowned for their expertise in athlete-focused travel logistics, NIRVANA will provide a comprehensive offering to international riders, including flight bookings, visa support, bike transportation, on-site bike assembly, and return services. Their on-the-ground presence in Knysna will ensure seamless, end-to-end support.
Blog#9 – Solo racing
In March, we witnessed another stellar edition of the Absa Cape Epic here in the Western Cape. Congratulations to Nino and Filippo and Annika and Sofia on their historic victories and to all the finishers for powering through some extreme weather conditions to claim well-earned finisher medals in what was undoubtedly a tough race.
Blog#8 – The Kindling
Last month, 75 of us headed deep into the Great Karoo to ride The Kindling – a two-and-a-half stage preview of the Nedbank Gravel Burn designed to test everything from rider experience to event logistics. It was a huge success – so much so that we’ve decided to launch an additional annual event over three days for April next year, starting and finishing in Graaff Reinet. More on that soon.
Blog#7 – Sold out!
Another exciting milestone has just passed for us at Nedbank Gravel Burn – entries for the inaugural event have officially sold out! We had set a target of 500 participants at the 2025 event, and we’ve not only reached it – we’ve exceeded it.
Vida e Caffè Powering Nedbank Gravel Burn as Official Coffee Partner
Vida e Caffè has joined Nedbank Gravel Burn as our Official Coffee Partner, bringing their unmistakable energy and presence to South Africa’s landmark new gravel stage race. A morning coffee is a ritual grounded in cycling tradition – a daily rhythm that sharpens focus and signals the start of the ride. As part of the all-inclusive experience, every rider will enjoy unlimited complimentary vida e caffè coffee throughout the event, from when they gather at the start in the coastal resort of Knysna to the final morning after the Burn Celebration at Shamwari Private Game Reserve, following Stage 7.