Witteput MTB Challenge 2025 delivers its best edition yet

The dust has settled on the third edition of the Witteput MTB Challenge, and by all accounts, it was the best one yet. Held on Saturday, 24 May 2025, the event drew 140 enthusiastic cyclists from near and far, with riders of all ages taking on the rugged terrain of the Witteput Farm, just outside Jan Kempdorp in the Northern Cape.

From the moment the riders set off from the Futurum Akademie school grounds at 8am, it was clear that this would be a day to remember. The route took participants through the heart of the Vaalharts farmlands and into the unforgiving Marokkaanse Rante, delivering a challenge that tested both stamina and spirit.

Riders tackled either the 40km or the more gruelling 80km course, with each track offering a mix of gravel roads, single and double tracks, and rocky climbs with an elevation gain of about 600 metres.

Despite the tough conditions, the cyclists pushed through – a testament to their determination and the quality of the event. “It was challenging, no doubt,” said one exhausted but smiling rider, “but the route was incredible. The scenery, the setup, everything was top class.”

The event wasn’t just about competition – it was a celebration of community and the joy of cycling. Families, friends, and supporters lined the start and finish areas, while children joined in the excitement with their own 5km and 10km kids' races, which were full of smiles and enthusiasm.

Cyclists were well taken care of along the trail, with clearly marked routes, sufficient water points, and on-site medical support throughout the day. Each participant received a goodie bag, and upon finishing, proudly accepted a medal to commemorate their achievement.

The festive atmosphere at the venue only added to the event’s success. While riders cooled down, music was played, mouthwatering food stalls, and a lively beer tent kept the crowd entertained throughout the day. The event's official photographers were also on hand, capturing special moments of effort, triumph, and camaraderie that defined the spirit of the day.

At the sharp end of the field, the fastest riders were rewarded with prize money, but for most participants, it was the journey – not the podium – that made it all worthwhile.

“This was our biggest success yet,” said one of the organisers. “The turnout was great, the feedback from riders has been overwhelmingly positive, and we’re already thinking about how to make next year even better.”

With its blend of challenging terrain, natural beauty, and family-friendly festivities, the Witteput MTB Challenge has firmly established itself as a must-do event on the Northern Cape cycling calendar. If the smiles and stories from this year’s race are anything to go by, the Witteput experience will only continue to grow.

Winners:

40km Men 

1. Rynn van Niekerk 
2. Stoffel van der Westhuizen 
3. JP Liebenberg

40km Women

1. Elma Coetzer 
2. Alma Haasbroek
3. Irma Schlebusch 

80km Men

1. DC Wilken
2. Hugh White
3. Gert Kruger

80km Women

1. Elmien Vorster
2. Annerieke Daniels
3. Karlien Treurnich