It’s difficult to distil the Great Zuurberg Trek into mere words. Part race, part holiday, part three-day celebration of everything we love about mountain biking—it’s the kind of event that gets under your skin and stays there long after the dust has settled.
For the capped 200-odd riders who gathered in Addo this May, GZT 2025 was more than just a mountain bike stage race. It was a shared experience—challenging, uplifting, unpredictable, and filled with the kind of heart that’s become the trademark of this unique Eastern Cape adventure.
Over the course of three unforgettable days, riders traversed some of the Eastern Cape’s most thrilling terrain—from scenic climbs to terrain hopping descents, all connected by fast-flowing singletrack that left even seasoned riders grinning.
“Proper EC trails—hard and rewarding,” said Paul, who described the route as one of the most beautiful he’s ever ridden. Day 2’s famous ‘Seven Dwarfs’ descent lived up to its reputation, serving up a heady blend of adrenaline and smiles, while Day 3’s snaking singletrack through the Zuurberg mountains delivered pure trail bliss.
The e-bikers brought their own energy to the event, supported by our long-time partner Rubicon, who once again provided their solar powered PowerRig to keep the fleet of e-bikes fully charged. And while riding styles and bikes varied, the camaraderie on the trails was unmistakable.
Off the bike, the race village buzzed with energy. “The race village was awesome, the staff were incredibly attentive, the food was amazing, and the trails were next level,” shared Jenna.
No stage race comes to life without the support of great partners—and GZT 2025 was powered by some of the best. Nebula ensured bikes arrived in Addo safely with subsidised bike transport, while Giant Bicycles supported top-notch on-site servicing and helped crank up the vibe with daily giveaways alongside Vittoria, Rubicon, Enduren and Thule—including a brand-new e-bike for one lucky early bird entrant to GZT 2026.
Vittoria Tyres were on-hand throughout, offering crucial tech support and tyre replacements when it mattered most.
In the race village, the celebration continued. Fitch & Leedes and Blind Tiger served up, crisp, refreshing G&Ts, ice cold Darling Brew beers flowed from the free wheel bar, and Soga Organic’s orange juice became a firm finish-line favourite. Imbuko Wines added a touch of class to the evenings.
Enduren natural sports nutrition powered riders through each stage, Tsitsikamma Spring Water kept them hydrated, and Squirt had bikes spotless and ready to roll every morning. Add a fresh pair of Sox socks and a sleek, comfortable Enjoy jersey, and the GZT experience and look was on fire.
Accommodation varied from luxurious cottages to comfy tents, each offering a unique Addo escape. “Cottages were excellent,” commented Michelle. “Warm, quiet, with incredible mountain views.” Riders appreciated the little comforts—from soft beds to piping hot showers—after long days in the saddle.
The GZT is deeply committed to nurturing young talent and growing sport. The Great Zuurberg Trek MTB Development Clinic hosted ahead of the race proved to be a shining success. 30 previously disadvantaged riders from Exxaro MTB academy, Kwano academy and the ABSA She Untamed program, along with a host of local riders took part, and all three of the men’s podium teams were proudly from Exxaro—testament to the impact of the GZT MTB development clinic.
While there were official winners crowned, the GZT spirit has never been about who’s fastest. It’s about the journey, the community, and the moments between sharing a meal, watching the sun set over the mountains, trading stories at the bar.
Scoring an impressive 8.8 out of 10 from this year’s rider survey, GZT 2025 cemented its place as one of South Africa’s most beloved stage races. “The most incredible setting”. Commented Richard, “Easily one of the top 5 events I’ve ever done. Well done, team!” Cindy shared “An amazing three days, so much more than a race—this one feeds your soul.”
With entries for GZT 2026 now open, the tribe is set to return. Same mountains, same spirit, same magic. Because at the Great Zuurberg Trek, it’s not just about the ride—it’s about the riders, and the trail they take together.
For more moments, memories and magic from the 2025 Great Zuurberg Trek, follow @greatzuurbergtrek on Instagram or like the Great Zuurberg Trek Facebook page.
For event info, updates and early bird entries for 2026, head to www.greatzuurbergtrek.co.za.
GZT 2025 Results
Men’s Overall
- Exxaro 1 – Lethabo Lerumo & Modiba Molokela
- Exxaro Last Minute – Obviousness Khorombi & Tyron Kleinsmidt
- Exxaro 3 – Albert Mothogoane & Mothekgi Makgatho
Women’s Teams
- Dirty Chainrings – Adele Jeppe & Jolene Viljoen
- Namibia Ladies – Anna-Mart Kruger & Christiane Beulker
- She Untamed 3 – Andisiwe Skeyi and Ntokozo Mokoena
Mixed Teams
- BDO – Mark & Gail Willimott
- Team Prentis – Ken & Liezel Prentis
- Sweet Pea – John & Marieka Ince
