The 2023 Trans Elands presented by ChemChamp was a huge success, very well attended and enjoyed by all. Despite the strong winds we still had a finisher percentage of more than 80% in the 160km extreme.
We received so much positive feedback, incl. the following: “The Trans Elands MTB race is always such a great and well organised event. The 160km route is a proper challenge with long climbs and rolling terrain making you work all the time. Well done and thank you to the Trans Elands team for a great event!”
– Victor from JBay
In 2023 with the 8th edition of the Trans Elands 160km “extreme” (“SA’s TOUGHEST 100 miler MTB marathon”), four riders (Andrew Cherrington, Sydney Rigby, Tracey Campbell and Wayne Magson) received the distinguished “Lex’s Big 5” award for having completed FIVE Trans Elands 160km “extreme” races, which means that to date a total of 18 riders have reached this remarkable milestone! Will you be next …to add your name to the Lex’s BIG 5 – Hall of Fame?
The 2023 Trans Elands 160km “extreme” was won by Rossouw Bekker (6:17:33) and the ladies’ race was won by Yolande de Villiers (7:03:01, her 5th win of the 160km “extreme”).
The overall record still stands @ 5:45:43 (Matthew Keyser) and the Ladies record @ 6:19:26 (Yolande de Villiers).
The 2024 Trans Elands 160km, 60km and 25km is scheduled for 8 June 2024
The Trans Elands 160km “extreme” was founded by Lex Holmes, who sadly passed away on 31 December 2016. The great turnout of riders at the Trans Elands is evidence of firstly the influence that Lex has had over many years in mountain biking circles throughout the Eastern Cape and secondly the dedication and commitment of the current organising team to continue with and grow Lex’s legacy.
The 160km MTB marathon with 3000m of climbing, can be extremely tough to finish for those who haven’t put in the hard training miles, however it is very rewarding and satisfying to finish this “bucket list” event within the 12 hour cut-off time.
Riders also have a choice of two shorter race distances, the 60km which acts as a stepping stone for those who in future years would like to tackle the 160km, as well as the 25km family friendly event.
Having ChemChamp onboard as our title sponsor has enabled us to lift the level of Trans Elands to new heights and through this partnership with ChemChamp and our other sponsors we strive for continuous improvements in rider experience.
See our website www.transelands.co.za for more details.
The minimum age limit for the 25km is 8.
The minimum age limit for the 60km is 15.
The minimum age limit for the 160km is 19.
#LetsGetSomeAltitude
Trans Elands supports CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA, a non-profit organisation which aims to provide the best possible support for children and teenagers with cancer and life-threatening blood disorders and their families. See www.choc.org.za for more info.
#LetsMakeAdifferenceTogether