And Introducing a BRAND NEW 2-Day Schools Stage Race

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Heritage, Grit, Glory

Where Gravel, Trails and Adventure Meet

Founded in 2010, The Cradle Mountain Trophy has grown into one of Gauteng’s most respected and enduring off-road events, combining world-class gravel riding, mountain biking and trail running in the spectacular surroundings of the Magaliesberg.

Now entering an exciting new chapter, the event returns in 2026 as a dynamic two-day festival of endurance, competition and outdoor adventure.

As Leg 4 of the Stellantis Adventure Series, The Cradle Mountain Trophy arrives at a pivotal point in the season — and with double series points on offer, this is where championship ambitions become very real.

For elite riders chasing a share of the R350,000 series prize purse — including R100,000 each for the overall male and female series winners — this is a race that simply cannot be ignored. For recreational riders, trail runners and families, it remains one of the most enjoyable and rewarding weekends on the Gauteng endurance calendar.

Importantly, for riders preparing for the Nedbank Gravel Burn, The Cradle Mountain Trophy represents the final major Gauteng gravel event before Gravel Burn begins just three weeks later — making it the perfect final preparation ride.

All cycling routes in 2026 will feature exciting gravel-focused courses designed to challenge experienced riders while remaining accessible and enjoyable for social participants and first-time gravel racers alike.

Plus, there is over R40,000 in prize money up for grabs at the event.

Introducing a Brand New 2-Day Schools Stage Race, The Cradle Mountain Adventure, now Part of the Luxliner Schools Series

What’s on Offer

Gravel/ MTB

100km & 60km
GRAVEL Routes

Trail Run /Walk

5km & 10km
Awesome Trails

NEW Mountain Trophy Adventure

15km time trial
20km or 40km Gravel Race

Stellantis Adventure Series

Launched in 2026, the Stellantis Adventure Series brings together five of Gauteng’s premier gravel and endurance events under one powerful banner. There are three events left in the 2026 Series.

Riders accumulate points throughout the series, competing for one of the largest prize purses in South African endurance cycling.

The overall series prize purse stands at R350,000, including R100,000 each for the overall male and female champions, while total prize money across all events exceeds R500 000.

Each event rewards podium finishers, with extensive media coverage and highlights packages broadcast on SuperSport throughout the season.

As the fourth leg of the series — and with double points on offer — The Cradle Mountain Trophy could prove decisive in the battle for overall honours.

Gravel/ MTB

Saturday 3 October 2026

2-Day Stage Race – Day 1

These events form part of the Stellantis Adventure Series and are open to all riders — especially those preparing for Gravel Burn. If you are looking for the ideal final long ride before the big event, you do not want to miss this weekend.

Winners walk away with R10,000 each.

Sunday 4 October 2026

Day 2 Events

Whether you are chasing series points, preparing for Gravel Burn, racing with friends or simply looking for an unforgettable weekend on the bike, The Cradle Mountain Trophy offers routes for every level of rider.

Introducing The Mountain Trophy Adventure

A Brand New 2-Day Schools Stage Race

2026 marks the launch of an exciting new addition to the weekend — The Mountain Trophy Adventure — a dedicated two-day schools stage race and one of the first events of its kind in Gauteng.
Young riders will compete across two stages:

(Distances will vary according to age groups.)

The event forms part of the Luxliner Schools Series and is aimed at creating a truly competitive yet enjoyable environment for school riders, teams and supporters.

Schools, coaches, teachers and parents are encouraged to bring their riders to experience a professionally organised stage-racing environment that rewards teamwork, preparation, endurance and sportsmanship.

With schools competing against one another across the weekend, The Mountain Trophy Adventure promises to become one of the standout fixtures on the schools cycling calendar.

There is also excellent prize money up for grabs for the top-performing 2-Day riders.

Trail Running / Walking

Trail runners can look forward to a spectacular day on the trails on Saturday 3 October 2026, with route options including:

The 15km event is a dedicated trail run only and is designed for runners wanting a more challenging and rewarding experience on the magnificent Magaliesburg trails.

From flowing single-track and technical sections to breathtaking scenery, these routes deliver an unforgettable outdoor experience for both serious trail runners and casual participants.

There is R6 000 in prize money up for grabs, with the male and female winners each taking home R1 500.

Special Announcement!

All children aged 7 and under may enter the 5km Trail Run free of charge on Saturday.

Race Venue

Valley Lodge & Spa, Magaliesburg

We are proud to return to Valley Lodge & Spa, situated in the heart of Magaliesburg.

With its beautiful surroundings, outstanding hospitality and relaxed country atmosphere, Valley Lodge & Spa provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable weekend of racing, recovery and family adventure.

Visit the accommodation section to find out more about their special event weekend packages.

IMPORTANT ENTRY DATES

Enter Early & Avoid Race Weekend Queues

To assist with smooth registration and race number collection, participants are strongly encouraged to enter before the closing dates.

Key Dates

Early entries help us greatly with event planning, race number preparation and reducing long queues at registration.

Race Number Pickup Dates

Wednesday, 30 September

Cycle Lab, Fourways – 13.00 – 17.30

Saturday, 3 October

100km riders and Trail Run
Valley Lodge & Spa Start – 06.00 – 07.00

Schools 2-Day Riders – Time Trial
Valley Lodge & Spa Start – 11.00 – 12.00

Sunday 4 October

Valley Lodge & Spa Start – 06.00 – 07.00

Contact Details

Office Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

General & Entry Enquiries