African Icons 3-6 september 2026
Event archive · 3–6 September 2026 · Waterberg, Limpopo, South Africa
The 2026 Absa African Icons Charity Ride brought a charitable focus to mountain biking at Summerplace Game Reserve in Limpopo’s Waterberg region. Designed around three days of social MTB riding, the event programme combined bushveld trails, hospitality and opportunities to connect with fellow cyclists and South African sporting personalities.
With entries limited to 40 riders, the weekend was designed for a small group sharing a love of cycling and a commitment to supporting families affected by loss.
A charity MTB event with a purpose
African Icons raises funds for the widows and orphans of South African police officers killed in the line of duty. That mission was central to the 2026 charity ride.
The event also offered corporate supporters a way to bring colleagues, clients and partners together around a meaningful cause, combining time outdoors with opportunities to build relationships.
Mountain biking in the Waterberg
Summerplace’s approximately 3,500-hectare private reserve provided the setting for the event. Its network of more than 160 kilometres of mountain bike trails includes flowing singletrack, scenic jeep tracks, rocky descents and challenging climbs.
The published programme offered two riding options:
Main Event: Longer, more demanding routes featuring technical terrain, steep climbs and rocky descents for experienced mountain bikers.
Milkshake Brigade: Shorter routes combining scenic jeep tracks and flowing, non-technical singletrack for riders seeking a more relaxed experience.
The 2026 weekend programme
The schedule began on Thursday, 3 September, with registration, accommodation check-in and a welcome dinner with a guest speaker, followed by jersey distribution and route information.
Friday and Saturday were planned around morning rides, catered meals, bike washing and repairs, and leisure time. Optional afternoon game drives offered an opportunity to explore the reserve beyond the trails. Friday’s programme also included a Devil’s Peak beer tasting.
Sunday, 6 September, featured a shorter final ride, followed by brunch, the event close-out and departure.
Bushveld hospitality for riders and guests
The programme extended beyond cycling, with meals, social activities and excursions for accompanying guests. Accommodation options included bush villas, boutique cottages and glamping tents, coordinated by African Icons.
Together, the riding programme and reserve setting reflected the event’s purpose: connecting people through outdoor adventure while supporting the families left behind.
This archive summarises the published 2026 event programme. Route distances, elevation gains and scheduled activities are taken from the event brochure.
Discover more about mountain biking at Summerplace Game Reserve or browse our Events & News.