As South Africa rides a wave of sporting success—from global rugby triumphs to international cycling breakthroughs—one event stands out not for its scale, but for its heart. The Tanqua Kuru Bicycle Race, now in its fifth year, has quietly earned its place as one of the country’s most beloved gravel cycling gatherings.
Nestled in the dramatic landscape of the Tankwa Karoo, the race is far from ordinary. It’s more than a challenging route through rugged terrain. It’s more than the varied bikes—gravel bikes, mountain bikes, and e-bikes—that dot the course. What sets Tanqua Kuru apart is its blend of endurance, creativity, and what organisers proudly describe as “radical hospitality.”
This year’s edition, held over the past weekend, marked a milestone in the race’s growth and its deepening community roots. Esteemed African cyclists like Dan Craven and Martin Freyer made the journey to compete, adding a layer of elite competitiveness to the event’s famously relaxed and inclusive vibe.
“It’s not just about speed – it’s about spirit,” says Jeremy Crowder, the race’s founder. “At a time when South African cycling is gaining serious global recognition, we’re proud to be the race that brings people back to the roots of gravel riding.”
The numbers speak volumes—over 60% of this year’s participants were returning riders, an exceptional rate in the world of mass participation events. This loyalty reflects the unique experience that Tanqua Kuru offers beyond the ride.
Whether it’s sipping a Coke pulled from a vintage fridge, relaxing at a desert tiki bar waterpoint, or enjoying snacks accompanied by music and laughter, the event is as much about shared moments as it is about distance covered. Riders find more than a finish line—they find connection, reflection, and joy.
“I came here to lose myself – instead, I found myself,” one participant said, capturing the event’s profound emotional draw.
Since 2020, gravel cycling has seen explosive global growth, and South Africa has kept pace. With its diverse terrain and rising international status in both road and mountain biking, the country is becoming a magnet for cycling innovation. Yet, in the midst of this boom, Tanqua Kuru stands out as a race built on authenticity, not hype.
“There’s something about this race that gets under your skin,” shared a veteran rider. “You come here for the ride, but you leave with a story—and a family.”
In a sporting world often dominated by metrics, competition, and corporate spectacle, Tanqua Kuru dares to offer something more human. It champions intimacy, eccentricity, and sincerity. That ethos has drawn like-minded supporters like Sling, a returning sponsor whose CEO, Andrew Pitman, explains: “Tanqua Kuru reflects the pioneering values we live by. It’s bold, community-driven, and authentic—values that resonate far beyond cycling.”
For founder Jeremy Crowder, keeping that essence alive is everything. “We didn’t set out to build a big race,” he says. “We set out to create something personal, a little bit wild, and full of meaning. That’s what keeps people coming back.”
As South Africa enjoys a golden age in sport—complete with roaring crowds and championship trophies—Tanqua Kuru offers something deeper. It reminds us that sport isn’t just about medals and viral moments. It’s about shared journeys, stories whispered over campfires, and the peace found on long dusty roads.
In the quiet expanse of the Tankwa Karoo, beneath skies unspoiled by city lights, the Tanqua Kuru Bicycle Race reaffirms that the soul of sport still lives in connection, community, and the simple joy of riding.
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