Some races are built for fast times and finish-line photos. Others are built to test how well you’ve actually prepared. The 36ONE MTB Challenge sits firmly in the second category. It’s tough, it’s honest, and it doesn’t hand out easy wins. That’s exactly why it keeps pulling riders back.
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THE FULL 361KM: NO SHORTCUTS, NO SURPRISES
If you’re lining up for the full distance, you already know what’s coming, or at least you should. This is a long day (and night) out on the bike, where pacing mistakes show up later and small issues turn into big ones if you don’t stay on top of them.
The terrain is typical Klein Karoo: hardpack, loose sections, long drags, and enough variation to keep you thinking. It’s not overly technical, but it wears you down. Nutrition, hydration, and managing your effort matter just as much as fitness.
You also need to be comfortable riding in the dark, dealing with temperature swings, and making clear decisions when you’re fatigued. Equipment choices matter here – lights, tyre setup, and a reliable drivetrain can make or break your ride. The riders who finish well are usually the ones who keep things simple and avoid unnecessary risks early on.
Finishers get there by riding smart from the start.
THE CHALLENGE RELAY: STRONG OPTION, SERIOUS RIDING
The Challenge Relay has grown into a solid part of the event – and for good reason. It opens the door for more riders to experience the 36ONE without taking on the full 361km solo.
That said, each leg still demands proper effort. You’re not just cruising through a shortened version – you’re racing a meaningful section of the route. Some legs favour stronger climbers, others suit riders who can hold speed on rolling terrain. Choosing who rides where can make a real difference.
Transitions are another factor. Smooth handovers save time and keep the team moving forward, while poor planning can undo strong riding out on course. The best teams treat it like a proper race – clear roles, good communication, and riders who are ready when it’s their turn.
It’s a good balance of performance and team energy, and it often delivers some of the most competitive racing on the day.
THE HALF: A SMART WAY IN
The Half makes sense for a lot of riders. It gives you a proper feel for the event – the terrain, the conditions, the pace – without the full ultra commitment.
It’s also a good benchmark. If you’re thinking about stepping up to the 361km in future, this is where you figure out what needs work. Strong ride here, and you’ll know you’re on the right track.
From a training perspective, The Half is accessible but still requires intent. You’ll need endurance, but also the ability to ride consistently without long breaks. Riders who go in expecting a casual day out usually get a wake-up call somewhere along the route.
But if you prepare properly, it’s a rewarding distance – long enough to feel like a real challenge, but manageable enough to recover from and build on.
PREPARATION IS KEY
The common thread across all three options is preparation. The 36ONE rewards riders who arrive with a plan – and stick to it.
That means spending time on longer rides, dialing in your nutrition strategy, and understanding how your body responds over extended hours in the saddle. It also means being honest about your goals. Racing for a podium looks very different to riding for a finish, and your approach should reflect that.
Bike setup is another area that’s easy to overlook. Comfort over long distances matters. Small changes – saddle choice, tyre pressure, cockpit setup – can have a big impact over time.
WHY ITS WORTH ENTERING
The 36ONE doesn’t rely on hype. It’s built on consistency – good routes, solid organisation, and a reputation for being a fair but demanding event.
Riders come back because they know what they’re getting: a proper challenge, a well-run race, and a finish that feels earned. There’s also a strong sense of community around the event – support crews, fellow riders, and volunteers all play a role in making the experience what it is.
If you’ve been considering it, 2026 is as good a time as any to commit. Whether it’s the full distance, the Challenge Relay, or The Half, there’s an option that fits where you’re at right now.
Just be realistic about your preparation, put in the work, and show up ready to ride. That’s really what this event is about.
For more information or online entry, click here.
Paid partnership with Dryland Event Management
