Race to Rhodes 2026

Name: Race to Rhodes 2026
Start: 2026-06-12
Location: Pietermaritzburg Airport, 2 Pharazyn Way, Oribi Village

Jun

Date

12 Jun (Friday)

Time

Fri, 07:00–21:00

Venue

Pietermaritzburg Airport, 2 Pharazyn Way, Oribi Village

Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

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📝 Useful Information

The Race to Rhodes (RTR) 2026 is a self-navigated, non-stop mountain bike adventure that starts in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, and finishes in the village of Rhodes, Eastern Cape. It is part of the broader Freedom Challenge series.

Entries are managed through the Official Freedom Challenge Website.

The race follows the Freedom Trail, traversing rugged off-road terrain, farm tracks, and remote mountain passes. Significant portions involve "portage," where riders must hike with or carry their bikes over difficult sections like the Lehanas Pass.

Would you like more information on the mandatory equipment required for the race or details on the support station locations?

Event Schedule & Details

Registration & Fees

•Start Dates: Riders will start in batches between 12 and 17 June 2026 from Pietermaritzburg.

•Duration: Participants have a maximum of 7 days to complete the approximately 500 km route.

•Format: This is a solo, non-stop event. Riders are not required to stop overnight and must be self-sufficient, though there are 5 official support stations for check-ins, food, and basic accommodation.

•Navigation: The route is unmarked. Participants must navigate using 1:50,000 topographical maps, a compass, and narrative directions; GPS is typically not permitted for the "Original" Freedom Challenge events.

•Normal Entry: R15,000 (paid by 31 January 2026).

•Late Entry: R15,500 (paid by 30 April 2026).

•Inclusions: The fee covers a pre-race dinner and accommodation in Pietermaritzburg, all meals and lodging at support stations during the race, a finisher's garment, and an ornamental beaded whip for official finishers.

Updated at 18 Mar 2026