27/08/2026
Hills, Gravel & Grit
Built on Shared Values
For Mitzi Knipe, founder of Makadas Adventures and the visionary behind Gravel & Grit, the merger is the natural next step in growing adventure tourism in Montagu.
"Makadas Adventures has always been about bringing people together through adventure. When we hosted our first mountain bike stage race back in 2010, the vision wasn't simply to organise another race—it was to create an event where families could spend an entire weekend together. I had seen how competitive cycling often divided families, and I wanted to create experiences where everyone could share in the adventure."
Knipe says her passion has always been discovering new routes and introducing people to Montagu's incredible landscapes.
"I've spent years exploring the mountains and gravel roads around Montagu. Finding amazing routes and sharing them with like-minded people is what drives me. From mountain biking and gravel riding to hiking and trail running, Montagu offers endless possibilities. Every new trail is another opportunity to showcase the beauty of this region."
Her work developing the Karoo Gravel Corridor inspired the creation of the Gravel & Grit Festival and its now-famous 100-Miler event.
"I believe events should never stand still. They need to evolve, introduce new routes and new experiences, and keep raising the bar. Bringing Gravel & Grit together with The Hills Challenge creates something much bigger than either event could achieve on its own. Together we can offer riders the very best of both mountain biking and gravel cycling while creating an unforgettable adventure festival."
For Hannes Gous, one of the founders of The Hills Challenge, the partnership stays true to the values on which the event was built.
"The Hills Challenge was created for one very important reason – to build a family event where everyone could be involved. We wanted an event where the whole family could participate, support one another and enjoy the entire weekend together from one venue. That vision remains at the heart of this new festival."
Reflecting on the event's name, Gous adds:
"The Hills says it all. There will always be sweat, there may even be tears, but what lasts are the memories. That's what people take home with them, and that's what keeps them coming back to Montagu."
