Grabadoers old and new to gain big at Grootbrak challenge on final day of 2025

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Mossel Bay (November 2025) – There’s excellent news for acolytes of Grootbrak Grabadoo, which takes place for the 22nd time on Wednesday 31 December. As is always the case on this family-fun occasion, the well-tested cycling and run/walk routes will suit every entrant’s fitness level. But this year, festivities will carry on beyond the finish line.

The continued support of local businesses and individuals has enabled organisers to spoil participants with medals, buffs and magazines as keepsake reminders of their part in an event that plays out in the scenic surrounds and streets of Great Brak River – the pretty seaside village that’s an integral part of ICONIC Mossel Bay’s now famous Route 12.

Says race director Alewijn Dippenaar: “After last year’s Grootbrak Grabadoo, a post-event survey revealed that people are keen to stay on for some after-action satisfaction. And so, we’ve arranged for adult finishers to each receive a beer, while kids will get cooldrinks to quench their thirst.

“Finishers’ free copies of South magazine and Powerade energy drinks will be complemented by Spar boerie rolls for sale as well as stalls offering coffee, pancakes and other delights to prolong the good cheer that prevails at the Lang Street race hub. We’re pulling out all the stops to ensure this 22nd anniversary cements us as one of the Garden Route’s best-loved family event.”

Grootbrak Grabadoo offers a 4.8km run/walk route and mountain bike options over distances of 15km, 35km, 58km and 73m, thus catering for all tastes on some of the most picturesque tracks in the Southern Cape. Dippenaar says long-range riders will set off from the Great Brak Sport Grounds at 6am on 31 December.

“Both the 58km and 73km cycle routes include the historic hamlet of Friemersheim and its surrounding forests – an added attraction for cyclists spoilt for choice when it comes to terrain variety and spectacular views. Pretty farmland forms a backdrop to both the dirt tracks and tarred parts of routes, while The Big Dipper challenges even the fittest of riders.”

Marshals along the way ensure that those riding shorter distances know where to go, with warning signs indicating sharp turns and descents to ensure cyclists’ safety. Apart from said volunteers, the event creates 40-plus temporary employment opportunities. And as per the norm, Garden Route businesses are stepping up to guarantee an unforgettable Old Year’s Day.

“We thank transport partner Halfway Toyota and our event partners, Mossel Bay Tourism and De Dekke Spar, for getting onboard again. Volunteers from Grootbrak will help manning refreshment stations, while other local concerns contribute in the form of cash, products or services. This year, funds raised will benefit Firstcare Wildfire Support.”

Dippenaar reminds that kids under 12 enter for free, but will have to admire their elders’ race memorabilia until they’re old enough to earn their own buffs and medals. If you would like to contribute, email him at dyndev@mweb.co.za and check out Grootbrak Grabadoo on Facebook for further info.

PricingMTB
15km @ R130
36km @ R220
56km @ R240
75km @ R270
Walkers enter @ R90 for the 4.8km walk.

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The action starts at 6am on Wednesday December 31 at Great Brak Sport Grounds in Lang Street, opposite Peperboom Restaurant. Online entries close by December 30 but pre-entries can be made at the sports grounds from 8am to 5pm on the 30th, and late entries on the 31st from 6-6:30am.
Cyclists, remember: no helmet, no ride.

Follow Grootbrak Grabadoo on Facebook and
Contact Mimi on 084 583 3144 or at mimi@gojipr.net, or Alewijn on 082 457 5675 or at dyndev@mweb.co.za for details.