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.
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.
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.
Nedbank Gravel Burn Welcomes Meerendal as Official Wine Partner
We are proud to welcome Meerendal Wine Estate as the exclusive and Official Wine Partner for the 2025 edition. The partnership brings together the raw adventure of the race and the refined craft of one of South Africa’s most respected winemakers, adding to the immersive experience and all-inclusive offering awaiting riders at the inaugural event in October.
Disc-O-Bed joins Nedbank Gravel Burn to redefine sleep in the Karoo
Two South African-born brands have teamed up to bring new meaning to comfort in the wild. Our new partner Disc-O-Bed is the world’s leading manufacturer of rugged, modular camping beds, to elevate the sleep experience for riders journeying through the vast, remote beauty of the Karoo.
Amacx set to fuel Nedbank Gravel Burn as official nutrition partner
Amacx, trusted by four of the world’s top cycling teams, brings premium sports nutrition to Nedbank Gravel Burn as our Official Nutrition Partner. Founded in 2011 in the Netherlands, Amacx is a leader in scientifically formulated endurance nutrition, fuelling athletes with products designed for maximum performance, optimal recovery and gut-friendly absorption.
How WeWork SA Became the Launchpad for Nedbank Gravel Burn
One winter morning in Cape Town, mid 2024, Kevin Vermaak sat down with a hot coffee and a to-do list longer than a Karoo gravel road. At the top of the list: Find office space. Nedbank Gravel Burn was still just a spark of an idea – a bold vision to create the world-class gravel stage race. But first, him and his core team needed a place to work.