Stillwater MTB Events

🚵‍♀ End of an Era for the Origin of Trails MTB Experience 🚵

After 11 unforgettable years, we are sad to inform you that the much loved MTB PARTY OF THE YEAR will not be taking place in 2025.
Since its inception, the event has proudly showcased the very best of the Stellenbosch MTB trails, while supporting the Stellenbosch Trail Fund and helping grow the local trail network into the world-class playground it is today.

We’d like to take this moment to extend our heartfelt thank you to:
✨ Our loyal sponsors, whose support made it all possible
✨ The town of Stellenbosch and its MTB community, for welcoming the event year after year
✨ And most importantly, the thousands of cyclists who joined us on the trails and made the Origin of Trails a true celebration of mountain biking!

Together, we’ve shared countless climbs, thrilling descents, and memories that will last a lifetime. Thank you for being part of the journey.

Though the event may be coming to an end, the trails, memories and the spirit of adventure of the MTB PARTY OF THE YEAR live on!

Our hearts are heavy as we say goodbye to two incredible members of the mountain biking family- Meurant Botha and JP Van Zyl.

Meurant’s vision and passion quite literally shaped the trails we ride in Stellenbosch today and provided thousands of mountain bikers and trail runners the opportunity to experience some of the best trails in South Africa, and the world. His investment into the youth of South Africa has had an immense impact and will continue to have an influence in many years to come. As an event organiser and trail builder, Meurant gave so much of himself to the sport and the community, leaving a legacy that will be felt on every trail of the Stellenbosch mountains. We will greatly miss Meurant’s presence around Stellenbosch and the knowledge, expertise and experience that he shared amongst our community.

JP was a friendly, familiar face to riders at so many events; always ready with a smile, a word of encouragement, and the skills to keep bikes (and spirits) going strong. He was a true supporter of the sport and the people within it. Behind the scenes JP worked tirelessly with meticulous detail to keep bikes in tip top shape and his laugh could be heard around every race village.

Both Meurant and JP gave generously of their time, energy, and passion for the sport and were part of the inspiration behind all the MTB events that Stillwater created- Wines2Whales, Origin of Trails, Ride the Rock and the Fedhealth MTB Challenge. The advice and support of these events from two such legends in the industry will always be greatly appreciated.

They helped build not just trails and bikes, but a community that is richer because of them. Our sincere condolences go out to their families and loved ones during this difficult time, they will be sorely missed in our community.

Congratulations again to our awesome and deserving Best Dressed winners at this year's Savanna Origin of Trails- Vanessa Barry and Tsidiso Motsoahae! Their efforts were rewarded with R10000 and 10 cases of Savanna - what a way to end the MTB Party of the Year!

Thanks to everyone who brought their creativity, quirks and vibe to the final stage of this year's event!

🎉 What a Ride! 🚴‍♀️🏆

A massive congratulations to all our incredible riders—you’ve conquered the trails and shown true grit! 💪🌟

A big shoutout to our amazing sponsors for making the Savanna Origin of Trails unforgettable. We couldn’t have done it without your support! 🙌🍻

Give your bike the TLC it deserves! Swing by the sq**rt Bike Wash, brought to you by the awesome crew at the Savanna Origin of Trails , and leave with a ride that looks brand new!

Sq**rt Cycling Products Savanna Cider

🚴‍♂️💦 Refuel and Recharge!

Our riders have reached Water Point 1 at the Savanna Origin of Trails, they’re refreshing with Coke and Powerade to keep the energy flowing! 🍹💪

Every sip fuels the next climb—onward to the adventure!

Savanna Cider Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages