The 36ONE MTB Challenge

isn't just a race.
It is defined by determination, camaraderie, and sleepless nights. Whether you tackled The Full, The Relay or The Half, your courage to face speaks volumes.

Few understand the physical and mental grit required to conquer this challenge, and for that, we salute you.
See you on the start line in May 2027!

A month ago, we were faced with one of the hardest decisions in the history of The 36ONE MTB Challenge.

The roads weren’t ready. The riders were.
The floods may have taken 2026 away, but not the spirit, commitment, and preparation of those who were ready to race.
For over 15 years, The 36ONE has pushed riders beyond limits and into the extraordinary.

Now the journey continues.
The Road Back starts today.

Entries are open for 2027.
Join us on 21–23 May 2027 in the Klein Karoo.

If you transferred your 2026 entry, your 361km of unfinished business awaits.
www.the36one.co.za

Today would have been a day of reflection.
Instead, we say thank you.
No finish line stories or tired legs — just a different kind of emotion.
But one thing hasn’t changed: our incredible community.

Thank you to every rider, volunteer, landowner, crew member, sponsor and supporter who makes this event what it is.
The 36ONE has always been about more than the ride — it has heart.

The roads will recover.
And when they do, we’ll meet again.
See you in 2027.

Today should have marked the final countdown to the 2026 Edition of The 36ONE MTB Challenge. Bikes would be getting their final checks. Support crew preparing. Riders carrying equal parts nerves and excitement.

Instead, after devastating floods across the Klein Karoo and Garden Route, the roads that host remain damaged and unsafe.

While the event will not take place this year, we want every rider to know this: your preparation was not wasted.

Over the next few days, we want to honour the stories behind the riders who made this event what it is.

The messages we’ve received over the past few days have meant more than we can put into words. The support, understanding, and encouragement from this community has been overwhelming. It’s in moments like these that we’re reminded what really is. Hearing what this event means to each of you — the commitment, the build-up, the personal reasons behind why you show up — stays with us.

Every early morning.
Every late ride.
Every hour and every kilometre of training over months on end. It doesn’t go unnoticed. We see the work. We understand what it takes. Thank you for your dedication — to the sport, to , and to Dryland.
It means more than you know.

With 10 days to go until the 2026 36ONE MTB Challenge, and after an incredibly difficult week of route inspections, consultations and continuous engagement with authorities and stakeholders, we regret to confirm that the event, scheduled for 22 May 2026, has officially been cancelled.

Despite exploring every possible rerouting option, we could not present a route that met the safety standards and integrity that define The 36ONE. Rather than deliver a shortened and compromised version of the race, we have chosen to protect the spirit of the event — and most importantly, the safety of our riders, crews, volunteers and emergency teams.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support during this difficult time.
All entered riders will be offered a transfer to 2027 or a refund.
Further administrative communication regarding these processes will follow directly to participants.

Read more: https://www.the36one.co.za/official-statement-the-36one-mtb-challenge-2026-cancelled/