Gravel Burn is more than a race — it’s an emotional, physical, and mental adventure like no other. From brutal climbs in the heat to struggling with sickness and logistics, every day tests riders in unexpected ways. In this Q&A, one rider shares their raw, unfiltered experience, from nearly quitting to sobbing with joy on the podium, and the lessons they learned along the way. “I nearly stopped — the heat, sickness, and fatigue were breaking me — but I just kept riding.” From

“The Epic was a wonderful experience. I finished on my birthday, shared it with my brother-in-law, and helped turn an invisible battle into a visible journey.” From the heat of Paarl to the elation of crossing the finish line on his birthday, Jann’s first ABSA Cape Epic was more than a race. .. it was a journey of resilience, purpose, and unforgettable memories. Riding in honour of his late wife and supporting the Landi Prinsloo Foundation to raise mental health awareness, h

“Crossing the finish line, fist-bumping Dad—nothing beats that.” For Luke, taking on the ABSA Cape Epic wasn’t just about crossing the line—it was about transformation. From dropping over 10 kg, sticking to a tough training plan, to sharing the entire experience with his dad, Luke approached the world’s toughest MTB stage race with grit, humility, and purpose. This is Luke’s story—in his own words. About the Rider Luke isn’t just a rider; he and his dad, Tony, are the owners