[Event] The Grit Trans-Xhariep 50 hours

[Catt]

Event Name: The Grit Trans-Xhariep 50 hours
When: 20/03/2026 - 22/03/2026
Where: Gariep, A Forever Resort, Free State
Category: Mountain Bike

The Grit Trans Xhariep is a three-day ultra-endurance mountain bike stage race through the rugged heartland of South Africa's Free State. Set against the backdrop of vast horizons, unforgiving gravel roads, and the kind of terrain that humbles even the toughest riders, this is where grit meets gravel and determination meets destiny.

Trans Xhariep isn't just a race – it's a reckoning. Three days of relentless riding that will test your legs, challenge your mind, and reveal what you're truly made of.

DATES: March 20-22, 2026

LOCATION: Gariep Region, Free State, South Africa

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Three days of professionally organized racing
Race number and timing chip
Access to race villages with meals and accommodation options
Water points and limited on-course support
Medical support via ER24
Finisher's medal
Race photography (available post-event)
Entry into The Munga community and family

Go to Event Page.

[Notahillagain]

One month to go, really looking forward to this route.

[Musashi]

I'm also considering this one.  The route is apparently about 410km so hopefully I won't be too knackered the Sunday to drive home.

 

[hboli4]

46 minutes ago, Musashi said:

I'm also considering this one.  The route is apparently about 410km so hopefully I won't be too knackered the Sunday to drive home.

 

Looks like 486km according to the map on their website?

[Musashi]

They're not the best at keeping the website updated.  I have this from December.

 

[Mook]

Did the single stage Trans-Xhariep in 2019. 315km of relentless headwind and heat that still wake me up in a cold sweat .......................... 🤢

Never again is probably too soon 

Edited February 24 by Mook

[hboli4]

11 hours ago, Musashi said:

They're not the best at keeping the website updated.  I have this from December.

 

Thanks for the share. Would be great to have all the details beforehand but I've come to 'expect the unexpected' with these events.

Have also entered - not really ready but nothing beats time on the bike!

[hboli4]

58 minutes ago, Mook said:

Did the single stage Trans-Xhariep in 2019. 315km of relentless headwind and heat that still wake me up in a cold sweat .......................... 🤢

Never again is probably too soon 

What time of year was this? Yes it can go either way - at this point it has been raining and raining with more rain in Bloem - temps not too bad for this time of year and winds have been relatively mild.

[Mook]

28 minutes ago, hboli4 said:

What time of year was this? Yes it can go either way - at this point it has been raining and raining with more rain in Bloem - temps not too bad for this time of year and winds have been relatively mild.

03 March 2019

[Musashi]

1 hour ago, hboli4 said:

Thanks for the share. Would be great to have all the details beforehand but I've come to 'expect the unexpected' with these events.

Have also entered - not really ready but nothing beats time on the bike!

They are quite good at sharing info closer to the time with those that have entered.  They share the route file and usually do a zoom call where they discuss the route in more detail and share other useful info.  Entrants also get added to the Whatsapp group where everyone asks and shares info.  You'll have a good idea what to expect come race day.  

Time on the bike through the Karoo/ Free State is always good!

[Musashi]

The plot thickens.  Due to foot and mouth disease, they're adjusting the route a bit.  No one knows what we're in for...

[hboli4]

13 hours ago, Musashi said:

The plot thickens.  Due to foot and mouth disease, they're adjusting the route a bit.  No one knows what we're in for...

I guess that is part of the 'mystery' in doing a first event - saw the comms regarding the route. Guess we will just have to wait and see and take it in our stride and part of the 'adventure'.