The scenic trails and crisp mountain air of Grabouw came alive once again with the return of the much-loved Weekend Warrior: Grabouw, grown by Tru-Cape. This two-day event was far more than just a mountain bike race — it was a celebration of family, fitness, and the power of community. With 397 entries across various age groups and riding levels, the event drew local families, outdoor enthusiasts, and even school teachers into a weekend of adventure and shared purpose.
Hosted in a professional race village nestled among the orchards, riders enjoyed access to tents, hot showers, a lively food court, and the ever-popular Chill Zone, complete with beanbags, live music, and plenty of laughter. While some came to challenge themselves on the single tracks, others came to experience the joy of crossing the finish line as a family. As Heroldt Bezuidenhout, headmaster of Grabouw High School, shared, “The best part is watching families make memories together. Seeing the little ones finish the 10 km ride with their parents is always heartwarming.”
Giving Back to Grow Futures
One of the most impactful moments of the weekend was the R50 000 donation made by Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing to Grabouw High School. The funds will go toward converting an old science lab into a fully equipped design classroom, expanding the school’s offering in creative education. This follows a previous donation in 2022 that helped renovate the school’s dance studio.
“Two-A-Day, our packhouse in Grabouw, is one of the biggest employers in the area,” explained Conrad Fick, Marketing Director at Tru-Cape. “The Weekend Warrior MTB race is our way of giving back to the local community and helping to create opportunities for schoolchildren in the valley.”
The school’s focus on arts education sets it apart in the region. “We are the only school in Grabouw that offers art as a focus area,” noted Bezuidenhout. “It takes a village to raise a child, but that village needs support. Our partnership with Tru-Cape plays a vital role in helping us create real opportunities for our learners.”
Trails for All, and a Legacy of Health
True to its inclusive mission, the Weekend Warrior event offered a range of trail options — bronze, silver, and gold — suited for beginners through to more experienced riders. Participants rode through vineyards, apple orchards, and around the beautiful Eikenhof Dam. The race distances may have been shorter than some other stage races, but, as Shaun Glover of Red Cherry Events pointed out, “There’s no shortage of challenge on the single tracks or with the climbs. It’s ideal for beginner to intermediate riders looking for their first stage race experience.”
As the event wrapped up, one message rang clear: Weekend Warrior is about more than just sport. It’s about shared experiences, uplifting communities, and creating a lasting impact through healthy, family-friendly events. For Tru-Cape, it’s a natural extension of a long-standing commitment to health, education, and social upliftment in the Grabouw area.
