[Event] ROAD TO DESOLATION '25

[Community Connect]

Event Name: ROAD TO DESOLATION '25
When: 14/06/2025
Where: Botanics Sport Club and Bar, Graaff-Reinet, Graaff-Reinet, Eastern Cape
Category: Gravel

The ROAD TO DESOLATION Gravel Race, the first gravel race in the eastern cape is set to return on June 14, 2025. For it’s third edition it will be part of the prestigious Gravel Earth Series, this grueling 179km race will challenge riders to conquer the rugged beauty of the Karoo, culminating in a breathtaking finish at the Valley of Desolation. And if you are here for the vibes there is a shorter but by no means easy 66km route as well.

ROAD TO DESOLATION isn’t your typical one day race. Situated in the remote beauty of Graaff-Reinet, it offers riders a chance to experience the desolate and beautifully vast landscapes. Our event, situated in a destination location, is why we provide a whole weekend of race experiences.

Race Day is sure to be competitive and we ensure everyone is fueled during the race with well stocked and curated feedzones and is refuelled after with delicious local and traditional food, including both vegetarian and meat options. Our post race dinner provides riders with an opportunity to connect and to share stories from the day’s events. 

Come and race with us!

Go to Event Page.

[Mamil]

Very disappointed that this event has had to be cancelled because of a lack of a sponsor.

[Rowl]

34 minutes ago, Mamil said:

Very disappointed that this event has had to be cancelled because of a lack of a sponsor.

Noooo? Was hoping to do this for the first time.

[Mamil]

46 minutes ago, Rowl said:

Noooo? Was hoping to do this for the first time.

Was also going to be my first time - entry fee refunded and this email received

Dear Road to Desolation Participants,

It is with deep regret that we must announce the cancellation of Road to Desolation 2025.  We understand this news is disappointing, and we want to assure you that we did everything possible to avoid this outcome.  Full refunds will be issued to all registered participants.

Organizing an event in such a remote and unique location as Graaff-Reinet presents significant financial challenges.  For several months, we have worked tirelessly to secure the necessary sponsorships and partnerships (international, regional, and local) to make Road to Desolation a reality. Unfortunately, despite our efforts, we were unable to secure the required financial support. Making this difficult decision now allows us to provide full refunds to riders and minimize the financial impact on Community Connect.

We are incredibly disappointed, as we are passionate about showcasing the beauty of the Karoo region and creating a memorable experience for the gravel cycling community.  It is disheartening that we lack the resources to produce the event at the high standard it deserves, whether as part of the Gravel Earth Series or as a successful grassroots event.

We remain committed to the vision of Road to Desolation and are exploring options for a third edition in 2026. We hope to have your support in the future.

Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely,

Julian and the Road to Desolation Team

[SSCC]

9 hours ago, Mamil said:

Very disappointed that this event has had to be cancelled because of a lack of a sponsor.

I wonder if they had to pay to be part of the Gravel Earth series?

Offering prize money and paying to be part of a global series like UCI (or GES) seems like a really bad idea for SA events. Participants end up paying for both of those things with jacked up entry fees. My hope is that the other grass roots gravel events that we have in the Western Cape avoid those traps.

Edited February 4 by SSCC