As the crisp autumn air settles over the Southern Drakensberg, the unmistakable energy of the iconic KAP sani2c returns – bringing with it not just world-class mountain biking, but a powerful story of partnership, purpose and community impact.
Paid partnership with Sappi
For over 20 years, Sappi has played a key role in enabling sani2c, providing access to its land and supporting the growth of an event that now stands as one of South Africa’s most respected stage races. What began as a bold idea, to ride from the Drakensberg to the Indian Ocean, has evolved into a platform that delivers tangible benefits far beyond the trail.
Through the sani2c Community Development Trust and associated initiatives, the event continues to direct significant resources into the regions it passes through – supporting local schools, infrastructure, conservation efforts and small businesses. The result is a model where participation translates directly into opportunity, with benefits that extend well beyond race week.
This approach closely aligns with Sappi’s broader sustainability strategy, where success is measured not only in business terms, but in the value created for people and the environment. With many of the route communities also forming part of Sappi’s operational footprint, the partnership carries a deep sense of shared responsibility – and shared benefit.
NEW FOR 2026: THE SAPPI SPEEDWAY
Adding a fresh layer of excitement to this year’s event, Sappi introduces the Sappi Speedway – a timed race segment on Day 1 designed to bring out the competitive edge in every rider.
Spanning approximately 1km, the segment will be clearly marked by a bold blue Sappi arch, signalling the start of a flat-out push for glory. Riders across all race categories will have the chance to test their speed, with the fastest male and female in the Adventure and the OG events, earning more than just bragging rights.
Up for grabs are Insta360 4X Starter Kits – the perfect tools for capturing and sharing the thrill of sani2c through dynamic, 360 degree rider-generated content.
“For many years we’ve supported riders with cheering and encouragement from Sappi staff in the Bulwer area, and with 20% of the route crossing Sappi land, it’s always an exciting time for everyone who lives and works here. This year, we wanted to step it up and encourage riders to give it their all in the Sappi Speedway segment. It’s not necessarily the rider in front who’ll be fastest—on single track, it’s all about riding smoothly and efficiently to make every second count,” explains Michelle Le Roux, Sappi’s Public Relations and Marketing Lead.
A PARTNERSHIP THAT CONTINUES TO EVOLVE
The addition of the Sappi Speedway reflects the ongoing evolution of the partnership – finding new ways to enhance the rider experience while remaining grounded in the values that have defined sani2c from the start.
As the 2026 race unfolds, Sappi’s role remains both practical and purposeful: enabling access, supporting delivery, and contributing to an event that continues to set the benchmark for how sport can connect people, landscapes and opportunity.
From the first climb to the final descent, sani2c is more than a journey across terrain – it’s a demonstration of what can be achieved when strong partnerships are built with intention.
Paid partnership with Sappi
