WOMEN'S EXPERIENCE
With our collaboration with TRAIL ANGELS (South Africa’s largest women’s cycling club) we’re supporting women riders in the lead-up training and preparation plus on the ground care, encouragement and presence when and where it matters most.
EXCLUSIVE SUPPORT
We have dedicated facilities, created for comfort, connection and support. You will be part of a women’s ‘tribe’ – share the nerves before the start with coffee in hand, ride the route in a group, celebrate each other at the finish line and gather around the fire to reflect on the challenges of the day.
THE BUILD UP
Preparing for the challenge of riding 7 days and 750km of pure South African gravel can be daunting. Trail Angels are on it – organising dedicated women’s introductory and training rides. After each ride, there will be time to gather and connect over a coffee, to share questions, doubts, and excitement, and to learn from each other in a supportive environment. Topics will include training plans, female physiology (cycle & hormones), nutrition, race preparation, and packing.
INTRODUCTORY EVENTS
6 June 2026
- Val du Charron, Wellington – 67km: Supported ride with vehicle, dedicated ride leaders, 2 groups (faster / social). Coffee, creative photo stop and lucky draw prizes. Optional gravel bike rental at preferred rates.
20 June 2026
- Octopus Gravel, Andermatt, Switzerland: We will be present at Octopus Gravel in Andermatt, Switzerland, to connect with and introduce our collaboration to the local European female cycling community. South African riders are also invited to join and share the Trail Angels spirit globally.
TRAINING RIDES
Save the dates:
- 6 June 2026
- 25 July 2026
- 22 August 2026
ONLINE SUPPORT
OFFICIAL KIT
Each rider who signs up for the race with Trail Angels (using the special coupon code) will receive official Trail Angels x Nedbank Gravel Burn 2026 kit, with the option to purchase additional kit, as well as Scott accessories (helmets, shoes, glasses, gloves), at preferred rates.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here are our most commonly asked questions on exactly this.
No – the Nedbank Gravel Burn is a full-service race. Burn Camps are private and remote, not open to visitors. The roads used are quiet and only official vehicles may follow the race.
One bag per rider is moved between Burn Camps each day. Place it outside your tent each morning for collection. Bike boxes and extra luggage are sent straight to Shamwari and can only be collected at the finish.
Go tubeless, run wider tyres, and check your gearing and suspension. The Equipment section on the website has full guidance.
Specialized provides neutral tech support at every padstal. You can pre-book maintenance packages or walk in during the race. Parts will be charged separately.
They are online now and show distances, climbing, and terrain.
At the Padstals, you’ll find AMACX nutrition, fresh fruit, boiled potatoes, marmite sandwiches, sweet breads, and more! Specialized will also be at each Padstal providing tech support free of charge, the tech service at the Padstals is free but you’ll need to pay for any spare parts used.
Yes. They will be released a few days before the race. The course is fully marked, but a GPS device is highly recommended in case weather or wildlife interferes with signage.
- South African and Namibian riders: valid CSA annual membership covering the race dates
- International riders: License from Home Federation OR CSA day licences for each of the seven stages, available on the CSA website