2026 Cradle Mountain Trophy

And Introducing a brand new 2-Day Schools Stage Race - Part of the Luxliner Series

Welcome to The 2026 Cradle Mountain Trophy

3-4 October 2026

Founded in 2010, The Cradle Mountain Trophy has grown into one of Gauteng’s most respected and enduring off-road events, combining world-class gravel riding, mountain biking and trail running in the spectacular surroundings of the Magaliesberg.

Now entering an exciting new chapter, the event returns in 2026 as a dynamic two-day festival of endurance, competition and outdoor adventure.

As Leg 4 of the Stellantis Adventure Series, The Cradle Mountain Trophy arrives at a pivotal point in the season — and with double series points on offer, this is where championship ambitions become very real.

For elite riders chasing a share of the R350,000 series prize purse — including R100,000 each for the overall male and female series winners — this is a race that simply cannot be ignored. For recreational riders, trail runners and families, it remains one of the most enjoyable and rewarding weekends on the Gauteng endurance calendar.

Importantly, for riders preparing for the Nedbank Gravel Burn, The Cradle Mountain Trophy represents the final major Gauteng gravel event before Gravel Burn begins just three weeks later — making it the perfect final preparation ride.

All cycling routes in 2026 will feature exciting gravel-focused courses designed to challenge experienced riders while remaining accessible and enjoyable for social participants and first-time gravel racers alike.

Plus, there is over R40,000 in prize money up for grabs at the event.

Introducing a Brand New 2-Day Schools Stage Race, The Cradle Mountain Adventure, now Part of the Luxliner Schools Series

The Cradle Mountain Trophy

Gravel/ MTB

Saturday 3 October 2026

2-Day Stage Race – Day 1

• 100km Gravel/ MTB Stage

These events form part of the Stellantis Adventure Series and are open to all riders — especially those preparing for Gravel Burn. If you are looking for the ideal final long ride before the big event, you do not want to miss this weekend.

Winners walk away with R10,000 each.

Sunday 4 October 2026

Day 2 Events

• 70km Grave/ MTB Stage
• 45km Gravel/ MTB Stage
• 20km Gravel/ MTB Stage

Whether you are chasing series points, preparing for Gravel Burn, racing with friends or simply looking for an unforgettable weekend on the bike, The Cradle Mountain Trophy offers routes for every level of rider.

Introducing The Cradle Mountain Adventure - A Brand New 2-Day Schools Stage Race

2026 marks the launch of an exciting new addition to the weekend — The Mountain Trophy Adventure — a dedicated two-day schools stage race and one of the first events of its kind in Gauteng.

Young riders will compete across two stages:

• 15km MTB Time Trial on Saturday
• 20km (U14) or 45km (U16 & U19) MTB Race on Sunday

The event forms part of the Luxliner Schools Series and is aimed at creating a truly competitive yet enjoyable environment for school riders, teams and supporters.

Schools, coaches, teachers and parents are encouraged to bring their riders to experience a professionally organised stage-racing environment that rewards teamwork, preparation, endurance and sportsmanship.

With schools competing against one another across the weekend, The Mountain Trophy Adventure promises to become one of the standout fixtures on the schools cycling calendar.

There is also excellent prize money up for grabs for the top-performing 2-Day riders.

The Cradle Mountain Trail Run / Walk

Trail runners can look forward to a spectacular day on the trails on Saturday 3 October 2026, with route options including:

• 5km Trail Run / Walk
• 10km Trail Run / Walk
• 15km Trail Run (No Walkers)

The 15km event is a dedicated trail run only and is designed for runners wanting a more challenging and rewarding experience on the magnificent Magaliesburg trails.

From flowing single-track and technical sections to breathtaking scenery, these routes deliver an unforgettable outdoor experience for both serious trail runners and casual participants.

There is R6 000 in prize money up for grabs, with the male and female winners each taking home R1 500.

Special Announcement!

All children aged 7 and under may enter the 5km Trail Run free of charge on Saturday.

Please visit the website for more information: www.mountain-trophy.co.za

Entry Fee Structure

Individual Gravel/ MTB Events

Junior Stage Races

U14 Stage Race

15km Individual Time Trial + 20km MTB Race

U19 Stage Race

15km Individual Time Trial + 45km MTB Race

Elite / Open Championship Gravel/ MTB 2-Day Stage Race

100km Stage 1 + 70km Stage 2