Before sunrise on 17 January, nearly 1 000 riders will roll out of Oudtshoorn and disappear into the rugged Attakwaskloof — chasing glory across one of South Africa’s toughest mountain bike routes. The Garden Route once again takes centre stage when the iconic Momentum Medical Scheme Attakwas Extreme, presented by Biogen, launches South Africa’s mountain biking season in spectacular fashion. Known as the Hell of the South, this legendary race celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2026 with a formidable 120-kilometre journey through some of the region’s most dramatic landscapes.
Starting near Oudtshoorn and finishing in Great Brak River, the route traverses the rugged Klein Karoo and the awe-inspiring Attakwaskloof – a landscape of towering rock formations, remote valleys and untamed beauty that has become synonymous with endurance mountain biking in the Garden Route.
With UCI Class 1 status, the Attakwas Extreme attracts world-class talent, and this year’s elite field includes South Africa’s top mountain biker and double cross-country world champion, Alan Hatherly, who returns to defend his title. Nearly 1 000 amateur riders will line up alongside the elites, drawn by the challenge, the scenery and the unique spirit of this bucket-list event.
A refreshed route through a legendary landscape
For the first time in nearly two decades, riders will once again enter the Attakwaskloof via Safranrivier, adding a nostalgic twist to the anniversary edition. Subtle route updates in the opening kilometres reduce total climbing and promise a faster, more dynamic start, while the heart of the race – the gruelling ascent through the kloof – remains as uncompromising as ever.
According to race organisers, the changes are expected to create exciting racing early on, before the decisive battles unfold on the long climbs and rolling roads that lead riders home to Pine Creek Resort.
Heat, grit and champions in the making
Warm Klein Karoo temperatures and rocky terrain are part of the Attakwas legend, conditions that have favoured double defending women’s champion Samantha Sanders, who thrives in the heat. She will face fierce competition from a strong South African women’s field, setting the stage for another gripping contest.
In the men’s race, local and international stars line up to challenge Hatherly across terrain that demands not only strength, but resilience and tactical nous. With the season only just beginning, the Attakwas Extreme offers the first true test of form for many of the country’s top riders.
More than a race – a Garden Route experience
Beyond the racing, the Momentum Medical Scheme Attakwas Extreme showcases the Garden Route as a premier adventure and sporting destination. Spectators and supporters are treated to dramatic mountain passes, wide-open Karoo vistas and the warm hospitality of local towns and venues.
Whether you’re cheering from the sidelines, tracking the action online or taking on the challenge yourself, the Attakwas Extreme is a celebration of endurance, nature and the adventurous spirit that defines the Garden Route.
📍 Where: Oudtshoorn to Great Brak River (near Mosselbay)
📅 When: Saturday, 17 January 2026
Follow the race on Facebook at Momentum Medical Scheme Attakwas Extreme or on Instagram @attakwasmtb.
For more information, visit www.atta.co.za.