Gravel racing returns to KZN on 27 July when the Underberg Gran Fondo will once again entice riders to enjoy one of the country’s most scenic routes through the foothills of the Southern Drakensberg. This will be just the third edition of the Underberg Gran Fondo, but the event is riding the wave of the fastest growing facet of cycling and has already built a reputation as a true test of gravel racing. Spectacular scenery at Underberg Gran Fondo The main 140km route takes riders on a circular course from just outside the quaint town of Underberg, through some truly spectacular scenery in the foothills of the Drakensberg.
Competitors take in three different valley systems, creating a great combination of hills and descents to test the fitness, strength and skills of the riders. Riders also have the option for a shorter 90km event that follows the same route as the long event for the first 63km, before it peels off and “shortcuts” its way back to the race village on the outskirts of Underberg. For those riders who are looking for something a little more relaxing, but still want to experience the vibe of the event, the 41km Tour de Farms provides a relatively easy option.
Gravel racing has exploded in popularity all over the world and the growth of the relatively new facet of the sport in this country has been equally impressive, with the recent 165km South African Championships attracting more than 1 600 riders. Gravel racing seems to have found a niche between the excite.
