Entries are open for the 2025 edition of absa African Icons, a premier three-day mountain biking experience that combines thrilling trails, breathtaking scenery and a powerful mission. From 28–31 August 2025 at the magnificent Summerplace Game Reserve, this year’s event promises to be the most inspiring and impactful yet.
Paid partnership with absa African Icons
The absa African Icons is not just a mountain biking event – it’s a movement. Keen mountain bikers of all skill levels will once again come together for three days to raise awareness and funds for the African Icons charities, two purpose-driven organisations making real, lasting changes for orphans and widows of South African police officers murdered in the line of duty.
The African Icons for this year represent different eras of sporting excellence. Breyton Paulse’s exploits as a legendary Springbok star need little introduction. Now enjoying retirement from pro rugby, Paulse is a regular SuperSport TV rugby pundit and a keen mountain biker.
In the peak of his pro rugby career is South African-born Kyle Steyn, who, through his mother’s Scottish ancestry, has played test rugby for both Scotland and Scotland 7s, and is currently the captain of the Glasgow Warriors URC team.
And, completing the African Icons line up for this year, is David Kinjah, Kenyan cycling pioneer who mentored multiple Tour de France winner, Chris Froome, was the first black African to race for a professional cycling team in Europe and an absa-sponsored racer in early editions of the absa Cape Epic.
Set in the Unesco World Heritage Site of the Waterberg Biosphere, Summerplace Game Reserve, just over two hour’s drive north of Pretoria, offers the ideal backdrop for this extraordinary event. Known for its world-class mountain bike trails, diverse wildlife, and dramatic landscapes, Summerplace combines the thrill of mountain biking with the serenity of nature.
Over three carefully curated days of riding, participants can expect supported rides that deliver breathtaking vistas, wildlife sightings and a shared sense of purpose that sets this event apart from any other.
absa African Icons participants will ride through a variety of terrain in the unspoiled Bushveld region. Guided by trained marshalls, groups of different skill and fitness levels will set out on daily rides tailored to suit their ability.
“From gravel roads and easy jeep track, to moderately challenging trails, right up to more technical singletrack trails, there will be different group options to ensure that all levels of mountain biker are catered for. We want everyone to thoroughly enjoy the riding at Summerplace, one of the leading mountain biking destinations in South Africa,” said Rory Steyn, founder of African Icons.
“There are also packages for non-riding partners and supporters, which makes the 2025 African Icons experience ideal for families. Summerplace has been developed for wholesome family breakaways so there is plenty for non-riding guests to do too. We are also catering for beginner level riders this year too and may, if the numbers allow, add a ladies-only riding group,” added Steyn.
There are over 40 species of large mammals, over 130 species of trees and more than 110 species of birds at Summerplace Game Reserve. Experiencing these natural South African treasures from the saddle of a mountain bike makes it all the more memorable. Formal game drives can also be booked at an additional fee.
There are several marked hiking and running trails for those who would like to attend but don’t ride mountain bikes. And there is a fleet of rental mountain bikes, both regular and eBikes for those who don’t have a bike, but are keen to experience a ride at this iconic mountain biking destination (bike rental fees are separate).
An absa African Icons entry includes all meals served at Summerplace Restaurant, a boutique restaurant that serves gourmet-style food.
Evenings at Summerplace are filled with celebration, connection, and reflection. What makes absa African Icons truly special is the community it brings together. Riders, supporters, sponsors, and sporting icons all unite around a shared passion for mountain biking and South Africa.
Whether you’re a keen mountain biker looking for a fresh multi-day experience or a passionate philanthropist with a love for the outdoors, the 2025 absa African Icons offers a unique opportunity to combine your passion with purpose. Each rider and supporter plays a role in changing lives of the beneficiaries.
Registration is now open. Limited spots are available. Entries are a standard rate of R9500-00 for all, but your choice of accommodation ranges from tents to five-star luxury lodges with different price packages.
Join us from 28–31 August 2025 at Summerplace Game Reserve to ride for a higher purpose.
To find out more and secure your spot, click here.
To find out more about the beneficiaries, click here.
