The organisers of the Nedbank Gravel Burn have announced Kindling by ChemChamp, a new three day gravel stage race that offers riders an accessible format and an immersive multi day gravel experience in the Great Karoo.

Kindling by ChemChamp has been developed as a standalone event by the team behind the Nedbank Gravel Burn, guided by the same operational philosophy and approach to route design. The event draws on the established Blaauwater loop while introducing newly created stages designed specifically for this three day race.

Taking place from 25 to 27 April 2026, Kindling by ChemChamp will cover 300 kilometres over three days, starting and finishing in Graaff Reinet; which adds a cultural and historical dimension to the event, encouraging riders to spend time in one of the Karoo’s most distinctive towns before and after the race. Riders will spend two nights at Blaauwater, home to the anchor Burn Camp for the Nedbank Gravel Burn, experiencing the same carefully developed camp environment that underpins the longer seven day race.

While the event is shorter, the days will not be easier. The days are full race days, with Stage 1 set to be notably challenging. Kindling by ChemChamp welcomes riders new to gravel and multi-day racing, while also serving as an ideal preparation and reference point for experienced riders who plan to sign up for the Nedbank Gravel Burn when entries open on 3 February.

Kevin Vermaak, founder of Nedbank Gravel Burn and Kindling by ChemChamp, says the event is intended to broaden access to multi day gravel racing.

“Not everyone is ready to commit to a seven day race, but many riders are looking for something that still feels like a proper journey. Kindling is designed to deliver that sense of immersion over three days, with the same attention to detail, route quality and support that defines everything we do.”

Across three days, riders cover a varied route through remote Karoo terrain. Returning to the Burn Camp each day, everything is included, creating a shared camp environment and a special sense of camaraderie that comes from being in the middle of nowhere.

Each rider will receive an exclusive Kindling by ChemChamp jersey, created by Ciovata specifically for the event. The design incorporates visual elements inspired by the Karoo landscape, its wildlife and its history, translating the environment into a piece of apparel intended to be worn well beyond race weekend.

Andrew Gold, co-founder of Ciovita, says the project was driven by a shared appreciation for place and craftsmanship.

“A lot of thought went into this jersey,” Gold explains, “The Karoo is layered, raw and full of character, and we wanted that to come through in the design. It is a jersey that reflects the journey and the environment in a way riders can keep and wear long after the race.”

ChemChamp joins the event as presenting sponsor, extending its involvement across some of South Africa’s leading cycling events and athletes.

“At ChemChamp, our core focus is on sustainability within our business, but as passionate cyclists we enjoy supporting local riders and events,” said Biance Bekker from ChemChamp. “Seeing Tristan Nortje and Marco Joubert perform so strongly at the Nedbank Gravel Burn was special, and having ridden the Kindling ourselves, we are happy to be part of another well run cycling event.”