GRABOUW, WESTERN CAPE, SOUTH AFRICA — On February 22-23, the official launch of the 2025 XTERRA World Tour explores the untamed beauty of the Elgin Valley, calling off-road triathletes and adventure seekers to one of the most iconic stops on the global circuit. Now in its 18th edition, XTERRA South Africa is an immersive experience, uniting competitors of all ages and abilities under the vast skies of the Kogelberg Nature Reserve, Africa’s first UNESCO-listed biosphere and a crown jewel of the Cape Floral Kingdom.
XTERRA South Africa has long been a proving ground, drawing Elite athletes, weekend warriors, and those chasing the thrill of the unknown. The Full Distance Off-Road Triathlon on Saturday, February 22, tests endurance at every turn, with a 1.5K swim, a 28K mountain bike course, and a 10K trail run weaving through rocky terrain and rugged singletrack. A prize purse awaits the fastest Elite finishers, but for the XTERRA Community of age groupers launching into the 2025 season, the true victory is found in the pursuit of 28 World Championship slots to Trentino, Italy, in September.
The next generation of XTERRA takes the spotlight on February 23 as the XTERRA Youth Tour kicks off. After a dominant showing at the inaugural XTERRA Youth World Championship in 2024, South Africa’s rising stars return with a mission, battling for 20 qualification spots per division to secure their place on the world stage once again.
Trail runners will also carve their path through the wild with the fourth stop of the XTERRA Trail Run World Series. The 21K half marathon follows technical trails through the diverse landscapes of the Cape Floral Kingdom, offering competitors a shot at the XTERRA Trail Run World Championship in Snowdonia, Wales.
The challenge is set, and the season begins here. Whether racing for a title, a personal best, or the thrill of exploring beyond the ordinary, XTERRA South Africa is where adventure takes flight.
Four-time XTERRA World Champion, two-time Olympian, and one of the most dominant triathletes in history, Conrad “The Caveman” Stoltz (ZAF) built a career that reads like legend but is grounded in grit, skill, and the relentless drive to redefine the off-road. With seven world titles—four in XTERRA and three in ITU Cross Triathlon—over 53 XTERRA victories, he is the embodiment of what it means to thrive in the wild.
But his impact on the sport doesn't end when he crosses the finish line. As a trail architect, course designer, MTB coach, and one of the leading representatives for XTERRA South Africa, Stoltz has shifted his attention from winning races to shaping them, carefully crafting an experience that reflects everything XTERRA stands for, from exploration and challenge to community building.
“I had some great battles over the years with Dan Hugo (ZAF) and Lieuwe Boonstra (ZAF), two of South Africa’s strongest athletes,” Stoltz recalls. “Now, I get to watch a new generation of athletes step up and take on these same trails, and that’s something really special.”
The South African contingent made waves at the first XTERRA Youth World Championship, proving they are a force to be reckoned with. Stoltz is particularly passionate about kids as young as six getting the chance to authentically experience XTERRA. “We’re very enthusiastic about kids and youth racing. Seeing their smiles and excitement is one of the best parts of the weekend,” he says.
For Stoltz and his wife, Liezel—a former professional netball player—XTERRA is more than just a competition. It’s about instilling a love for movement, resilience, and outdoor adventure. Whether it's off-road triathletes chasing championship slots or families camping lakeside under the Southern Stars, XTERRA South Africa is built to bring people together.
“The setting is fantastic—just a short drive from Cape Town. A hop over Sir Lowry’s Pass, and you escape the city into nature, adventure, and a small-town country atmosphere,” Stoltz says. “And, of course, South Africans love to braai. There’s also camping at the venue, so bring your own gear or vehicle and braai right on the edge of the lake!”
Conrad Stoltz offers his expert insight into the challenge that lies ahead:
Swim (1.5K): Athletes plunge into the pristine waters of the Eikenhof Dam for a two-lap, 750-meter swim featuring an Australian exit between laps. The dam’s naturally filtered waters create a unique experience unlike any other in the XTERRA circuit. Stoltz describes it best.
“The water in the Eikenhof Dam is Coca-Cola-colored due to tannins from the fynbos roots. It sits on top of an aquifer and is fed by small mountain streams so clean that I’d drink the water anywhere. I haven’t seen water like this anywhere else in the world.”
Bike (28K): Once out of the water, athletes hit a 28K mountain bike course that blends fast-flowing singletrack with rugged, technical sections. More than 70 percent of the course is singletrack, designed by Stoltz himself, featuring a figure-eight loop and an over-and-under bridge, strategically built for dynamic overtaking. The highlight of the course is one of XTERRA South Africa’s most infamous features.
“XTERRA South Africa is famous for the Rock Garden. It’s an iconic sandstone rock formation that creates a long, rocky, technical descent.”
Run (10K): The final stretch is a 10K trail run that keeps competitors on their toes with a mix of singletrack, jeep trails, and two significant water crossings. The course is designed to break rhythm and demand agility, with key sections that leave a lasting impression.
“The water crossings stand out the most. At 3K, there’s a 100-meter ‘Swamble’ section down a mountain stream. Rocky, hip-deep in places, with cool, clear water and the sound of a waterfall in the background. The second water crossing is called “Caveman’s Jacuzzi.” Around 8K, prepare for technical jungle running before leading to Grabouw’s iconic white sand beach near the finish.”
From the first stroke to the final sprint, the XTERRA South Africa Full Distance course is an invitation to live more, embrace the raw beauty, and challenge yourself to explore both the physical and emotional limits with a deeper respect for the land that shapes the experience.
A new season brings new challenges, fresh ambitions, and the excitement of stepping into the unknown. For some, it’s a return to familiar trails in search of redemption or a repeat of past success. For others, it’s the start of a journey into the world of professional off-road racing. The road to the XTERRA World Championship begins here, and there is no better place than XTERRA South Africa to welcome two local athletes making their Elite debut.
South Africa’s Linda Detering moves up to the Elite ranks after winning her 25-29 age group at the 2024 XTERRA World Championship in Trentino. The transition brings a mix of emotions. “Yes, I am indeed competing at XTERRA South Africa and am pretty nervous for my first elite race, but at the same time, also very excited.”
XTERRA South Africa has been part of Detering’s journey for years. “This event is special to me because it was one of my first cross triathlons back in 2019. I didn't have a mountain bike yet, so I borrowed one for this race. Afterwards, when I moved to Germany, I bought an MTB because it was so much fun.”
And for Linda, racing at home will always be an experience of its own. “Going anywhere in South Africa for a race is special to me because it’s always so beautiful, and Grabouw is the same. I always go with friends and family, and we stay the entire weekend, so it’s more than just the race.”
Few age groupers made as big of an impact on this course as Ryno Owen did in 2024. Stepping into the Elite field is a new challenge, but after winning his age group at 2024 XTERRA South Africa and finishing third overall, he carries the confidence from last year’s performance into this season.
“I actually surprised myself finishing third as I knew it was still early in the season and didn’t have high expectations. I just wanted to focus on my own race and see where the form was at. I gained confidence on the bike after a below-average swim and felt really good on the run. The course suits my racing style—hard and technical.”
Racing in Grabouw is very important to Owen. “It’s always been a big goal of mine to grab the tape at XTERRA South Africa and win an XTERRA in my own country. This event is where my love for cross triathlon originated. It’s always special competing in the event that started it all, making you look back at the journey and appreciating how far you’ve come.”
The course itself adds to the experience. “Swimming in the beautiful Eikenhof Dam, riding in the hills of Elgin, and running on a stunning course where the legendary Conrad Stoltz always makes it super adventurous.”
Beyond the race, XTERRA South Africa is something more to Owen. “It’s not just about chasing a podium, a time, or seeing how far you can push yourself, it’s an exhilarating experience that will leave a smile on your face. The nature, the people, the adventure are what get people hooked on XTERRA.”
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For friends Tanya Rabie (ZAF) and Lizl Hobson (ZAF), who train, travel, and compete together, the road to the XTERRA World Championship is about much more than just crossing the finish line.
Tanya Rabie enters the 2025 season after a dominant performance at XTERRA South Africa 2024, where she won her 50-54 age group. She carried that momentum to the XTERRA World Championship in Trentino, finishing second in her division. Now, she sets her sights on another strong season. “I’m hoping I can repeat last year. I have been training hard, in the time I have around my busy work schedule.”
For Rabie, XTERRA South Africa is more than just a competition. "I love the vibe, the amazing but challenging course, the brand, and the great organization of the event. It feels like I’m part of a unique sporting family.”
The connections formed here make it even more meaningful. “The location, course, and people—both the organizers and fellow athletes. It’s welcoming and challenging, like a family.”
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Lizl Hobson finished second in the 55-59 age group at XTERRA South Africa 2024, but for her, this year is about more than results. “This year, I’m embracing the pure joy of XTERRA—soaking in the adventure, the challenge, and the incredible XTERRA community. Being the oldest in my age group means I get to race with gratitude, knowing that next year, as I enter my 60th year, I will have to give it my all to secure another spot at Worlds.”
The course itself is part of the experience. "It's a privilege to swim in this pristine dam and ride this tough but exhilarating mountain biking course. Conrad Stoltz, the master trail builder, always surprises us with something new.”
But the race for Hobson is about something even bigger. “XTERRA South Africa is far more than just a race. It’s about being part of an international off-road adventure-loving community.”
Racing alongside Rabie has made the journey even more special. “My friend Tanya and I had the honor of racing at two XTERRA World Championships. There, I was inspired by the over-60 athletes—their dedication and spirit were moving. I hope to do the same: to inspire other middle-aged athletes to keep training, keep racing, and keep living life fully.”
For Rabie and Hobson, XTERRA is about the friendships, the challenges, and the shared pursuit of exploring their limits.
At XTERRA South Africa, two Youth races will serve as a key step toward the XTERRA Youth World Championship. Youth B & Junior competitors will race the Sprint Triathlon (500M swim, 11K bike, 6K run), while Youth A athletes take on the Super Sprint (250M swim, 6K bike, 2.5K run), a platform for rising talent.
Returning with bigger ambitions are 2024 Youth World Championship podium finishers Antony Clayton of South Africa and Nathan Chase of Namibia, ready to take on 2025 with even greater expectations.
Antony Clayton went from a seventh-place finish at XTERRA South Africa 2024 to standing on the World Championship podium in Italy, where he finished second overall in Youth B & Junior.
“I started as a swimmer before transitioning to triathlon in April 2024, always aspiring to become a triathlete. After the South African Open Water Swimming Nationals, I decided to pursue my dream of becoming a professional triathlete.
The World Championship race in Trentino suited his strengths. "The course seemed tailor-made for me. I built a gap on the swim, exiting first, but after a fall on the downhill, I was in third heading into the run. I passed one athlete and started chasing Nathan Chase. I saw Nathan about 3.5 kilometers into the run, but Finlay Goodman (GBR) passed me just before I overtook Nathan.
Clayton is driven by bigger goals for 2025. “I am eager to compete in the XTERRA World Championships in 2025. Racing competitively here in South Africa, just 30 minutes from where I live, is such a privilege. The course offers breathtaking views, adding to the excitement and challenge of the event.”
Namibia’s Nathan Chase finished fourth in XTERRA South Africa 2024 before stepping up to third place at the XTERRA Youth World Championship in Trentino. “I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect with it being so early in the season, but I really enjoyed it and came out with a lot of valuable lessons.”
By the time he arrived in Italy, everything had come together. “I was really confident going into Worlds, especially since it was at a slightly higher altitude with a lot of climbing, which I’m used to coming from Namibia. Coming into this year, I’m super excited to race again, and I’ve had a great preseason build block, so I feel ready to race.”
XTERRA South Africa is more than just a race for Chase. “I really enjoy off-road triathlons, and there are not too many of them around, so XTERRA South Africa is a great event to do. It’s also great fun to make a little family holiday out of it, and we go explore around the Grabouw/Elgin area, which is a welcome distraction from school life back home.”
Chase has also kept a close eye on Clayton. “I was super impressed with Antony’s race in Italy. I remember speaking to him before the start last year in Grabouw, and he had said that he was just starting in triathlon. The improvement he made in those couple of months was really amazing. He thrashed in Italy.”
Representing Namibia gives Chase extra motivation. “It makes me really proud to represent Namibia. I love our flag and definitely think we have the coolest triathlon suit out there. I would be super proud to be able to put Namibia on the map of triathlon destinations one day.”
Beyond the competition, Chase embraces the full XTERRA South Africa experience. "For me, it’s more than just a race because I have my whole family down there, and it’s going to be awesome to support my dad in the Full Distance race on Saturday. I really like the vibes around the race expo as well, with the food vendors and little shops. Overall, it’s just a super great event and a good way to start off the season.”
As Clayton and Chase step back onto the XTERRA South Africa course, they carry higher expectations, stronger motivation, and the experience of a breakthrough season in 2024. The future of XTERRA is on full display, and the journey continues.
XTERRA South Africa’s full weekend of competition continues on Sunday, February 23 with events for trail runners, sprint-distance athletes, and young adventurers looking to be part of the XTERRA experience.
The XTERRA Trail Run World Series brings a 21K Half Marathon, offering top finishers a chance to qualify for the 2025 XTERRA Trail Run World Championship in Mount Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa), Wales. Among those looking to secure their spot is Tish Jones (GBR), a familiar face at XTERRA South Africa. “I have loved participating in XTERRA South Africa for the past two years, and I have no doubt that I will again. However, this year, I’ve actually entered the XTERRA Half Marathon trail race, as I was hoping to qualify for Worlds in this discipline.”
For Jones, this event carries deeper meaning she isn’t racing alone. “I particularly love this race because my partner, Niel, encouraged me to enter, and we have raced it together for the past two years. It’s wonderful to have his support and know that he is racing simultaneously, and we get to celebrate together at the end.”
For those seeking shorter distances, XTERRA South Africa offers a Sprint Triathlon with a 500M swim, 12K bike, and 6K run, open to individuals and relay teams. Young athletes aged 6-11 can get in on the action with a Kids Triathlon, featuring a fun, age-appropriate course.
With clear skies and temperatures peaking at 25°C, conditions will be perfect for racing and celebrating under the African sun. Whether tackling the Full Distance Triathlon, chasing a trail run qualification, or experiencing XTERRA for the first time, this will be an epic weekend to remember.
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