CEDER GRAN FONDO

The Ceder Gran Fondo delivers the ultimate racing experience with a dynamic course that includes river crossings, soft sand, fast smooth gravel, challenging terrain, rough corrugation, steep climbs, and rapid descents. The route features thrilling descents and breathtaking views, showcasing the Cederberg’s unique character—gravel racing at its best.

When: Saturday 3 May 2025
Start Time: 07h00am
Distance: 151km
Elevation Gain: 2500m
Aid Stations: 6
Cut-off: 20h00

Designated as South Africa's official qualifying race for the UCI Gravel World Championships 2025, this event allows elite and amateur riders to compete under UCI regulations for a chance to earn the coveted UCI rainbow jersey through global qualifiers. The top 25% of finishers in these qualifiers secure their spots at the UCI Gravel World Championships, which features participants from 18 countries and approximately 30,000 competitors globally. Notably, only 27 events worldwide are selected to be part of this series.

The Ceder Gran Fondo begins at Nuwerust Farm, where riders navigate a few winding turns and cross a low water bridge before passing the original venue, Cederberg Oasis. Take a moment to salute the iconic smiley face sign! The route features a short climb from Oasis, followed by a rapid descent that leads over two more low water bridges, usually flowing with Cederberg water. After passing through Matjiesrivier Nature Reserve, riders ascend toward the vineyards of Sanddriff and Cederberg Wines, encountering a challenging 35km stretch before a stunning descent down Uitkyk Pass.

After a feed zone, riders tackle Nieuwoudts Pass, enjoying spectacular valley views before embarking on a lengthy descent toward the Olifants River. Following the riverbanks, they will climb after Clanwilliam Dam into Keurbos. Following the infamous "Jamaka Rollers," participants will find the unofficial third water point at the Jamaka Kiosk, serving refreshing frozen orange juice. The final ascent up Uitkyk Pass demands determination, leading to a left turn into Driehoek Farm. The road here can be rough and bumpy, with dynamic turns and a final river crossing, including some soft sand before returning to the main gravel road and heading back to the Nuwerust finish line.

OFFICIAL FEED ZONES

🙂 19.5km Cederberg Wines

🙂 46km Algeria /  Nieuwoudts Pass

🙂 62km Kriedouwkrans Bridge 4-Way

 🙂 74.5km Rondegat

🙂 99km, Jamaka Kiosk 🥤 (Unofficial Waterpoint)

🙂  103.5km, Algeria Waterpoint 

🙂 120km Driehoek Farm / Ferguson's Rest

RIDE THE CEDER
UCI Gravel World Series - The Ceder:
Saturday 3 May 2025

RUN THE CEDER
The Ceder Trail:
Saturday 25 October 2025

Entry to The Ceder is via our Quicket Entry Portal. Visit Quicket.co.za to enter. A link can also be found top right in the menu bar.

RIDE THE CEDER
All online entries strictly close Monday 28 April 20:00

RUN THE CEDER
All online entries strictly close Monday 20 Ocotber 20:00

Riders may use any type of bike (road bike, mountain bike, city bike, hybrid bike, cross bike, etc.) with the exception of tandem, E-bike or recumbent bike. time trial road bikes are also forbidden. During the UCI Gravel World Championships, all bikes should have dropped handlebars. It’s not possible to participate in the UCI Gravel World Championships with a mountain bike. 

While every route is clearly marked, it's mandatory to have the GPX file loaded before starting any race. You can acquire all route GPX files from our online store. A download link is provided once completing the checkout process.

Yes. All races, with the exception of the Fun Run and Ceder35, are timed. Your timing chip and race number are provided in your race bag upon Registration. It's mandatory for riders to affix the race number to their bikes and runners to pin numbers to their clothing. Timing chips are affixed to race numbers.

Please check The Ceder Compulsory Kit & Gear section under 'INFO' to ensure you're prepared.

We do not need an official medical certificate; kindly review the indemnity and waiver thoroughly.

You can book all accommodations at Nuwerust through The Ceder Quicket portal. Priority is given to participants, and bookings are on a first-come, first-served basis. Explore options on The Ceder Event Page on Quicket.co.za

Certainly! Spectators are welcome along all routes.

Designated feed zones will be marked, providing access to beverages and food managed by the Ceder Crew and volunteers. We kindly ask that you treat them with respect and courtesy, as they are there to assist you.

Riders may receive bottles and assistance from outside helpers or team support outside of official feed zones, provided the following guidelines are followed:
• No feeding or handing off bottles from moving vehicles.
• Helpers and team vehicles must be parked completely off the road while waiting to assist riders.
• Helpers are responsible for collecting all discarded wrappers and trash.

The weather in the Cederberg can be unpredictable, but shifting the race dates to May and October should reduce the likelihood of wet and cold conditions. However, early morning starts in the mountains may still be chilly. Please check The Ceder Compulsory Kit & Gear section to ensure you're prepared for any weather.

Yes, the cutoff time for the the Gran Fondo and Medio Fondo is 20:00, and the Ceder 35 and Trail Races 18:00

Race Numbers can be collected prior to the event at Race Registration. Registration will be in Cape Town on Tuesday before race weekends (Location TBA) and will continue at Nuewrust in the Race Village on the Friday.

Race registration will be in Cape Town on Tuesday before race weekend (Location TBA) and will continue at Nuwerust in the Race Village on the Friday.

Yes. Please provide a form of identification, such as a Driver's License or ID, when collecting your race number.

Yes, the prize giving is scheduled for Saturday at 18:00 for the Cycling Races and 18:00 for the Trail Running Races. Prize Giving will take place in the Race Village.

Unfortunately not.

19 years old or older.

Unfortunately, no dogs or other pets are allowed at The Ceder venue, Nuwerust.