THE MELTING POT
Gravel for all
Fast, chilled and everything in between. Whether you’re chasing podiums, exploring, or just here for the views and the beers, you belong on this start line. For those keen to compete there are categories for every Age Group. The wonders of the Karoo are now open to everyone.
Analogue and POWERED
Categories
Riders will be automatically be placed in their respective Age Group categories based on their date of birth. Riders selecting the ebike category will be placed in appropriate start groups.
For the top racers, men and women (across all Age Group categories) compete for Overall GC ranking and for daily stages. Top women contenders will start in a separate batch to ensure a fair competition. Men and women Overall GC leaders will be awarded the Ciovita Leader Jersey at prize giving after each stage.
unified
All drop-bar bikes welcome
Drop-bar bikes are mandatory for Kindling by ChemChamp. We have designed a pure gravel route that is ideally suited for a classic gravel bike (off-road tyres to handle terrain and with drop bars for speed). When we all ride gravel bikes, it levels the playing field and makes it more enjoyable when riding in groups. Trust us, the route is pure gravel heaven, and you’ll want the perfect tool for the job. We welcome ebikes – because the Karoo is too good to miss, we want more riders soak up every view, every climb and every kilometre, with a smile.
TIMING
Solo
Kindling by ChemChamp is a timed event where riders ride solo across three days of mass-start stages. Riders’ stage times are added together and the rider with the lowest cumulative time is the leader on each day and the winner at the end of the 3-day event. Riders compete to wear the leader’s jersey in their respective category. In addition to being required by rules to finish within the maximum allowed stage time each day, riders are subject to the event’s rules. The spirit of these rules emphasises fair play, respectful behaviour and active environmental consciousness.
SUPPORT FROM START TO FINISH
Full-service
Service stations along the marked route provide neutral technical support and a range of fluids and food to help maintain energy levels, including savoury and sweet snacks. Trained medical staff are out on the course for any emergencies. After you roll across the finish line each day your bike is washed while chefs prepare local fare.
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What it takes
You’ll cover around 300km over three days. So you’ve worked out the daily distances right? Add the highly varied terrain and you’ll get an idea of what is required of you. While not nearly as challenging as Nedbank Gravel Burn, three consecutive days in the saddle still requires a reasonable level of endurance fitness, regular bike rides and basic bunch-riding skills should set you up for success. With full event services and comfortable camp facilities, recovery is built in — leaving you ready to enjoy it all again the next day. If in any doubt, enter the ebike category.
Next: Burn Camp Life
See how riders connect, recover, and refuel off the bike.