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BUSINESS NEWS - The Meiringspoort Challenge is more than just an event, it’s a celebration of community, adventure and the breathtaking beauty of De Rust. Founded by Bill Martin and Pieter Schoeman, this annual challenge was born from a vision to attract visitors to the picturesque hamlet of De Rust, nestled at the foot of the majestic Swartberg Mountains. 

Their dream was to showcase the region’s unspoiled natural beauty while fostering a spirit of community involvement. 

With the unwavering support of Dominee Hennie van Loggerenberg at the start of this venture and the local church, the event has grown into a cornerstone of the De Rust calendar. Ds Francois du Plooy has since been involved in the event. 

The support from Corleen Barnard from Oudtshoorn & De Rust Tourism has also been an enormous help in making this event a success.

In 2025, the Meiringspoort Challenge marks its 10th anniversary with even more excitement and community spirit. This year, we are proud to host the Eden Schools and Eden XCM League, adding a new dimension to the event. 

The celebrations kick off on the Friday before the event with a steak braai and a lively beer tent, setting the stage for a weekend of fun and camaraderie.

This year’s Challenge also introduces exciting new elements to enhance the experience for participants and spectators alike:

? Anti-Clockwise Bicycle Routes: For the first time, the cycling routes will follow an anti-clockwise direction, offering a fresh perspective and an added challenge for seasoned cyclists.
? Greater School Involvement: Local schools are more involved than ever, encouraging young athletes to participate and strengthening community ties.
? New Childcare Facilities: A dedicated childcare facility is now available, allowing both parents to compete worry-free. Early booking is essential to secure a spot. At its heart, the Meiringspoort Challenge remains committed to uplifting the community. The Eljada School in Oudtshoorn, which provides care and development for adults with intellectual disabilities, is the event’s main beneficiary. (Learn more at eljada.co.za). Additionally, the event supports developmental riders from local schools, ensuring young athletes have the resources and opportunities to train and compete.

Event Details

Trail runs:
? Eland Route: 19,5km
? Klipspringer Route: 9,5km Mountain Bike Routes:
? 26km (anti-clockwise)
? 41,5km (anti-clockwise)
? 61,5km (anti-clockwise, E-bikes and tandems welcome). A Celebration of sport, nature and community.

The Meiringspoort Challenge is a unique blend of sport, nature, and community upliftment. Over the years, it has become a key event for De Rust, boosting local tourism and supporting small businesses. Whether you’re competing on the trails, cheering from the sidelines, or simply soaking in the stunning scenery, the
Meiringspoort Challenge is an experience not to be missed. 

This year, the festivities extend beyond the race routes. On race day, visitors can enjoy a variety of stalls, a petting zoo with miniature donkeys, and the lively atmosphere of the beer tent. It’s a day for the whole family to enjoy!

As an added highlight, Adam Tas, one of South Africa’s most beloved artists, will perform on Saturday evening. This special concert is set to be a memorable evening of music and entertainment, further benefiting tourism in the village. 

Tickets are priced at R200 per person and can be booked in advance. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Meiringspoort Challenge with great music and great company!

Why attend?
? For the adventure: Tackle challenging routes through one of South Africa’s most scenic landscapes.
? For the community: Support local initiatives and witness the power of sport to bring people together.
? For the cause: Contribute to the invaluable work of Eljada School and other beneficiaries.
? For the fun: Celebrate our 10th anniversary with a steak braai, beer tent, family-friendly activities, and a live performance by Adam Tas.
Join us in 2025 for the Meiringspoort Challenge, a decade of adventure, community, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a first-time.

https://www.meiringspoortchallenge.co.za/ and https://www.facebook.com/meiringspoortchallenge

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