Our founder, blind ultra-athlete Hein Wagner, will take on the Nedbank Gravel Burn 2026 from 25 to 31 October. He will ride a tandem with his pilot, Alwyn de Kock, to raise funds for the Hein Wagner Academy.
Seven days, 750 km of gravel
The seven-stage race sets off from Robert Sobukwe Town/Graaff-Reinet and crosses the Karoo and the Eastern Cape, covering around 750 km and 8 500 m of climbing before finishing at Shamwari Private Game Reserve. Riders face gravel tracks, steep mountain passes, rough farm roads and river crossings, and it is Hein’s first gravel stage race.
“As a blind person, one of the best ways to experience our beautiful country is on the back of a tandem. I can hear, smell and feel its natural beauty.”
Riding for an accessible kitchen
Hein aims to raise R1 million through his Nedbank Gravel Burn campaign. The funds will go towards a fully accessible communal kitchen in our student accommodation, with tools, devices, technologies and utensils designed for blind and visually impaired students.
The Hein Wagner Academy offers the only three-year cybersecurity programme, with both national and international accreditations, in the world. Specialised training, 24/7 residential support and an accessible campus cost more to run than a conventional campus, and support like this makes it possible.
Hein’s participation in the race is made possible by Santam.
How you can help
See the route and all seven stages on our Nedbank Gravel Burn 2026 page, and support Hein’s ride by donating to the Academy. Every contribution brings the accessible kitchen closer.
Read the Nedbank Gravel Burn feature on Hein’s participation.