Strong winds, heat, and the scare from Andri Frischknecht suspend the queen stage of the Gravel Burn

The sixth stage of the Gravel Burn 2025, scheduled between Merino Farm and Gwanishi with 144 kilometers, was neutralized by the organization’s decision due to the extreme weather conditions recorded along the route.

Gravel Burn suspends its queen stage

Crosswinds of great intensity, accompanied by rain in the early hours of the morning and a progressive increase in temperatures up to 35 °C, forced the competition to be suspended to ensure the safety of the participants.

The riders were temporarily evacuated from their accommodations at the main camp (Burn Camp) and concentrated in a safe area while the race management assessed the situation. Ultimately, the start was delayed by one hour, and riding was allowed in neutral mode until the control point Padstal 1, at kilometer 46, before confirming the complete neutralization of the stage.

The founder of the event, Kevin Vermaak, explained the decision: “It has been an unfortunate circumstance, but we want to thank the positive attitude of all the riders and the effort of the event staff throughout the day. Safety is always the priority.”

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During the neutralized section, the Swiss Andri Frischknecht (Scott SRAM) suffered a fall caused by the strong crosswinds at kilometer 36. The rider was taken to the hospital with a concussion and shoulder injury, although his condition is stable. The organization has maintained contact with the medical team and wished him a speedy recovery.

The day ended with the cyclists completing the remaining stretch in a recreational mode, taking the opportunity to enjoy the scenery of the Great Karoo and the atmosphere among participants before arriving at the Gwanishi camp, the starting point of the last stage towards Shamwari Private Game Reserve, where this first edition of the Gravel Burn will conclude.

Overall classification after Stage 5 (last valid stage)

Pro Men

1. Matt Beers – Specialized Off-Road – Toyota – 15:46:42
2. Simon Pellaud – Tudor Pro Cycling – +0:33
3. Hugo Drechou – Numéro31.cc / Pinarello – +6:42
4. Lukas Baum – Orbea x Leatt Speed Company – +8:28
5. Tristan Nortje – Imbuko ChemChamp – +9:19

Pro Women

1. Ashleigh Moolman-Pasio – AG Insurance Soudal – 19:39:21
2. Melisa Rollins – Liv Racing Collective – +4:20
3. Hayley Preen – ChemChamp Honeycomb 226ers – +6:31
4. Lauren Stephens – Aegis Cycling Foundation – +7:01
5. Axelle Dubau-Prévot – Numéro 31 par Café du Cycliste / Pinarello – +8:54