ADVENTURE, endurance, and breathtaking scenery come together once again as the Tanqua Kuru Bicycle Race gears up for its fifth edition. From May 23 to 25, cyclists and adventure seekers will descend upon the rugged landscapes of South Africa's Tankwa Karoo for an unforgettable experience that goes beyond just a race.

This year’s event promises to be more spectacular than ever, with the return of a fan-favourite segment and a thrilling new aerial experience. The much-loved stretch across "The Pan" – a surreal, flat expanse that challenges riders while offering unmatched visual beauty – makes its comeback, responding to overwhelming demand from past participants.

"Our riders asked, and we listened," says Chief Organiser Jeremy Crowder. "Bringing back The Pan is our way of honouring the community’s wishes and adding that extra magic to the race."

Adding to the excitement, the 2025 Tanqua Kuru Bicycle Race partners with Sling to offer select participants a once-in-a-lifetime chance to view the vast Karoo landscape from above. Through a random selection process, lucky riders will be treated to aerial flips, experiencing the terrain from a breathtaking new perspective.

"Partnering with Tanqua Kuru allows us to merge the thrill of aviation with the passion of cycling, providing participants with a truly unique perspective of South Africa's beauty," says Andrew Pitman, Co-CEO of Sling.

Race Details and Unique Features

Dates: May 23–25, 2025
Location: Tankwa Tented Camp, R355, Calvinia, Northern Cape
Format:
- Day 1: Riders can choose between a 113km or 59km route, featuring the highly anticipated return to The Pan.
- Day 2: A 62km course that delivers even more stunning vistas and challenging terrains.

But there's more to the Tanqua Kuru experience. In addition to the race, participants will enjoy themed water points, top-tier hospitality, and the now-iconic "Bicycle Burn," a celebration that solidifies the event's reputation as a festival of camaraderie and adventure.

"We're going to ride hard, eat like desert royalty, and create memories that go beyond the race itself," Crowder promises.

An Experience That Lasts Beyond the Finish Line

So there's much more to the Tanqua Kuru Bicycle Race than just endurance – it’s about embracing the raw beauty of the Karoo, pushing limits, and forging lifelong connections with fellow adventurers. Whether navigating the rugged trails or soaring above them, participants will leave with stories to tell and memories to cherish.

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Join the 2025 Tanqua Kuru Bicycle Race: A Unique Adventure in the Karoo