On Wednesday, 15 April 2026, the Garden Route Giro delivered another unforgettable chapter as riders battled rain, mist and the relentless Swartberg Pass—where Cronje Beukes and Mariëlle Trouwborst emerged victorious in emphatic fashion.
For those catching up, Stage 2 saw Beukes storm into yellow with a commanding ride over Rooiberg Pass, while Lisa Bone edged into the women’s lead after a tactical sprint finish.
Stage 3’s 89km route from Calitzdorp to Prince Albert brought 2,100 metres of climbing and one of South Africa’s most iconic ascents into play, turning the race into a true test of grit and climbing prowess.
Swartberg Pass Separates the Strongest
Cloaked in cloud and doused in drizzle, the Swartberg Pass proved decisive in both races.
In the men’s field, Beukes once again showcased his climbing strength. After a controlled build-up to the base of the pass, the race leader steadily increased the tempo, shedding rivals one by one as the gradient steepened.
First Marco Joubert lost contact, then Wessel Botha followed, leaving Beukes alone at the front. By the summit, he had carved out a significant advantage, which he managed carefully on the descent to secure back-to-back stage victories.
Behind him, Botha finished second and Joubert third, but the general classification gap widened, with Beukes extending his overall lead to over three minutes.
Trouwborst Strikes Back in Style
The women’s race saw a dramatic reversal of fortunes as Mariëlle Trouwborst reclaimed control with a powerful and determined ride.
After early attacks and tactical positioning over the rolling terrain, the leading contenders regrouped before the climb. Lisa Bone initially looked strong, collecting key points along the route, but the Swartberg ascent belonged to Trouwborst.
Riding at a relentless tempo, she broke clear of Bone on the climb and steadily increased her lead. Even a puncture on the descent could not derail her charge, as she managed to stay ahead despite losing air in her tyre.
Crossing the line with a lead of over two minutes, Trouwborst not only claimed the stage win but also regained the yellow jersey, turning the overall standings decisively in her favour.
Tough Conditions, Relentless Racing
Stage 3 delivered some of the toughest conditions of the race so far. Rain, low visibility, and steep gradients combined to test riders physically and mentally.
Breakaways formed and faded, while mechanical issues added to the drama, highlighting the unpredictable nature of gravel racing at this level.
Another Challenge on the Horizon
With three stages complete, the Garden Route Giro continues to build intensity.
Stage 4 promises yet another test, with riders set to tackle the Swartberg Pass once again—this time from the steeper northern side—before a fast run to De Rust.
For Beukes and Trouwborst, momentum is firmly on their side. But with more climbing and challenges ahead, the race for overall glory is far from settled.
