Freedom Trail

26/05/2026

The recent storm damage has hit both Baviaans and Gamkaskloof hard, two incredibly special and iconic parts of the Freedom trail that mean so much to so many riders, and adventurers.

The rivers are still full, 3 weeks later. Sitting on their stoep in the evenings, Hestelle says that the river is still roaring. The road to Dam se Drif is only recently passable with a strong 4x4 and the reserve is still inaccessible.

Eskom is still down in the area, fortunately Dam se Drif has solar and they are supporting family and much of the community around them.

If you are able to help, please consider supporting the BackaBuddy campaigns to assist with road restoration efforts in these beautiful areas. Every contribution, big or small, will make a difference in helping these communities and landscapes recover.

Please also share with your friends and fellow trail lovers. ❤️

Baviaanskloof:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/baviaanskloof-flood-relief?fbclid=IwZnRzaARtkpVleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeClnzR-NkWd-8lOi7N5HLxyYJ97f0hKs0giYU9s_aaJ3GPuCd-YSCRidG-io_aem_scLtzHBy8v2XpihqXRaBEg

Gamkaskloof:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/help-rebuild-the-gamkaskloof-die-hel-road?fbclid=IwdGRzaARuUqhjbGNrBG5SmmV4dG4DYWVtAjExAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkDDM1MDY4NTUzMTcyOAABHjZMRIFuLQXoFngu9eKmKSSQ4f8_O6FV6oVUzQPhVbuu58GL4zyMqoMWc2t5_aem_bjdUqfS1EUnsori1IweyCA&sfnsn=scwspwa

18 May 2026 update: We have 4x4 access into the Baviaanskloof, which allowed us to receive emergency food parcels in the first instance; we are now...

22/05/2026

Entries for the 2027 edition of Race Across South Africa are officially OPEN!

After an unforgettable inaugural event, spots are limited and expected to fill quickly — so if you’ve been dreaming of taking on the Freedom Trail, now’s the time to commit. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this incredible adventure across South Africa.

Act fast to avoid disappointment — and tag or share with your riding friends who should be on the start line with you! 🚴‍♂️🔥

https://www.freedomchallenge.org.za/rasa

Mountain Bike SA
BIKEPACKING.com
Tread - Mountain Biking with Soul
MtbApp
Curve Cycling

21/05/2026

Less than 24 hours until Race Across South Africa 2027 entries open!
A life changing adventure to ride your bike across South Africa - completely self supported. Memories will be made.



co.za

21/05/2026

Less than 24 hours until Race Across South Africa 2027 entries open!

A life changing adventure to ride your bike across South Africa - completely self supported. Memories will be made.

Tread - Mountain Biking with Soul
MtbApp
Mountain Bike SA
BikeNetwork.co.za
Bike Hub
Bikepacking South Africa
BIKEPACKING.com
Sleepmonsters - The Adventure Racing Website

20/05/2026

🎙️*new podcast episode* featuring the full behind the scenes of the van Coller trio as they chased down the cut-off.
Find it on your preferred podcast platform or on one of the links below:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0tzxWdrJA0O5PMf6kynqBE?si=35a68480129741c0

When we think of ultra distance racing, it's normally one bike, one trail, one rider, but in this instance it's just so much more. This family story of pulling together during shared suffering and shared overcoming has just become so inspiring, and in a setting deep in South African culture.

In the story we hear today, we chat to Tim van Coller. He is 74-year-old previous Freedom Challenge finisher. He's got two blankets. His last trip on the trail was 12 years ago. But now you'll hear, Tim is no ordinary old man. He is certainly made of the tough stuff, and he rode Race Across South Africa with his son Brett of 52 years, and his grandson Zach of 22 years.

Theirs is a story about legacy, connection, courage, trust, belief. I mean, all the good stuff. Commitment, family values, and never giving up. Together they did what few of us thought was possible, and we are fortunate enough to hear from all three of them today and hear how so many special moments came together.

Freedom Trail Podcast · Episode

15/05/2026

Incredible! not quite sure where Drikus Coetzee - Ultra Endurance Athlete found all the time to film his race but thank you for sharing... fantastic to watch!

08/05/2026

RASA 2026 slideshow

06/05/2026

message from Zane De Decker.
For anyone in the Knysna area keen to join the talk, pls note we postponing to next week. This weather is wild, quite a lot of damage around town and many businesses are closed today & tomorrow.

13/01/2026

Information about the new Race Across South Africa self-supported 2000km cycling race taking place in April. More info and entries: https://www.freedomchallenge.org.za/rasa

MtbApp
MTB South Africa
Freedom Dot-Watchers
Cycling South Africa
Bicycling Magazine South Africa
Full Sus
Tread - Mountain Biking with Soul
Bikepacking South Africa
Bike Hub
BIKEPACKING.com
BikeNetwork.co.za
Curve Cycling
MAProgress
Mountain Bike Routes - Southern Africa
Mountain Bike SA

04/01/2026

FC Day 21: Trouthaven → Diemersfontein: 51 km, +1750 m

The final day of the Freedom Challenge — 2,100 kilometres behind you, one last test ahead. You’ll leave Trouthaven in the half-light, climbing through the twisting Kloof and mist toward Stettynskloof — a name that stirs both awe and apprehension.

Starting at the wall of the Stettynskloof Dam, you’ll begin a many-hours-long traverse through a valley that revels in silence — visitors an intrusion on its solitude.

The Stettynskloof portage is legendary: steep, rough, and unrelenting. You’ll lift, push, and carry your bike through rocky riverbeds and dense bush. Progress is slow, but every step carries meaning. You’ll pass the site of the 1964 Shackleton crash, with shredded remnants scattered among the tangled scrub.

Once you’ve scrambled up the final cliff, the view of the valley through which you’ve just traversed looks benign. Bruised shins and bloody scratches tell a different tale. A short hike across fynbos brings you to a jeep track that will lead you away from this remote valley. This final section isn’t about speed — it’s about reflection.

Riding up the tar road of the Du Toitskloof Pass, you’ll have time to process the last three weeks. At Wellington, your blanket awaits. The blanket is precious but not the real prize. The blanket is a mere reminder of the journey undertaken — the joy of open spaces, the rare beauty of places most don’t get to see, the inner journey of self, and the appreciation of your endurance and ability to push on in moments of weakness or doubt.

Below the vineyards of Wellington, the finish line at Diemersfontein waits with open arms. Crossing that line is unlike anything else — exhaustion, relief, and quiet triumph woven together. You’ve traced the country’s spine, crossed its rivers and ridges, and found something unshakeable within yourself.

The Freedom Challenge doesn’t end here. It lives on, every time you remember the sound of gravel beneath your wheels, the taste of dawn on the trail, and the sight of that blanket.