Imbuko ChemChamp & She Sends Dominate the Tankwa Trek Trails
The 2025 Momentum Medical Scheme Tankwa Trek, presented by Biogen, wrapped up in thrilling fashion as Imbuko ChemChamp’s Marco Joubert and Tristan Nortje secured their overall victory, while She Sends’ Candice Lill and Kate Courtney completed a clean sweep of stage wins in the UCI Women’s race. The final stage of this four-day Koue Bokkeveld adventure wasn’t without drama, proving once again why this race is a true test of skill, endurance, and strategy.
Imbuko ChemChamp Seals the Deal
Despite crossing the Kaleo finish line in second place on the final day, Joubert and Nortje had already stamped their dominance on the event. The duo raced smart, controlling the pace and staying out of trouble, a strategy that paid off in securing the 2025 title by over 10 minutes.
Tristan Nortje (left) and Marco Joubert (right) won the 2025 Momentum Medical Scheme Tankwa Trek, presented by Biogen, in commanding fashion on Sunday, 9 February. Photo by Oakpics.com.
“We know from previous years that the light and dust make visibility difficult,” Joubert shared post-race. “The safest way is to race from the front and set the pace.”
Meanwhile, Honeycomb 226ers’ Wessel Botha and Marc Pritzen, who had been their closest competition, suffered a race-ending crash just 15km into the 57km stage. Botha’s determination to finish was evident, but Pritzen and medics convinced him to stop after he showed signs of a concussion.
Marco Joubert (leading) used attack as the best form of defence on the final stage, controlling the pace with Tristan Nortje to ensure they stayed out of trouble. Photo by Oakpics.com.
Singer KTM Racing’s Martin Frey and Simon Stiebjahn capitalized on the situation, taking the final stage win while Imbuko ChemChamp played it safe.
Singer KTM Racing’s Martin Frey (leading) and Simon Stiebjahn raced to stage honours on the final day of the 2025 race. Photo by Max Sullivan.
She Sends Sweeps the Women’s Field
In the UCI Women’s race, She Sends’ Candice Lill and Kate Courtney were simply untouchable. Winning all four stages, they dominated from start to finish, wrapping up the overall title with a staggering 40-minute lead.
Kate Courtney (leading) and Candice Lill dominated all four stages, including the final day when their overall victory was all-but secured already. Photo by Oakpics.com.
“Racing alongside Candice has been amazing,” said Courtney. “She kept me honest and ensured we always pushed.”
Lill, a familiar face on the Tankwa Trek podium, added: “This is my favorite stage race. The riding was tough but so well organized, and as a Biogen athlete, it was great to represent a co-sponsor here.”
Candice Lill (left) has now lifted the UCI Women’s trophy on five occasions with four different teammates. Photo by Oakpics.com.
Spaghetti M&G’s Greta Seiwald and Martina Berta fought back after two puncture-disrupted days to secure second place, while the young Ghost-Liv Racing duo of Tyler Jacobs and Sara Cortinovis claimed third.
Final Standings – UCI Men & Women
UCI Men’s General Classification – Top 5
- Imbuko ChemChamp A – Marco Joubert & Tristan Nortje (10:40:04)
- Singer KTM Racing – Martin Frey & Simon Stiebjahn (+10:36)
- Computer Mania Cannondale Pro MTB – Daniel van der Walt & Ursin Spescha (+19:08)
- Insect Science Cycling – Keagan Bontekoning & Arno du Toit (+23:20)
- Toyota Specialized – Matt Beers & Johan van Zyl (+30:12)
Momentum Medical Scheme Tankwa Trek, presented by Biogen, UCI Men’s General Classification Podium after Stage 4 (from left to right): Martin Frey, Simon Stiebjahn, Tristan Nortje, Marco Joubert, Daniel van der Walt and Ursin Spescha. Photo by Oakpics.com.
UCI Women’s General Classification – Top 5
- She Sends – Candice Lill & Kate Courtney (12:43:17)
- Spaghetti M&G – Greta Seiwald & Martina Berta (+40:37)
- Ghost-LIV Racing – Tyler Jacobs & Sara Cortinovis (+49:58)
- Efficient Infiniti – Sarah Hill & Vera Looser (+1:08:28)
- Kolisi/Songo Foundation – Ila Stow & Cherise Willeit (+1:41:08)
Momentum Medical Scheme Tankwa Trek, presented by Biogen, Stage 4 UCI Women’s General Classification Podium after Stage 4 (from left to right): Greta Seiwald, Martina Berta, Candice Lill, Kate Courtney, Tyler Jacobs and Sara Cortinovis. Photo by Oakpics.com.
Another Year of Unforgettable Racing
With another incredible edition of the Momentum Medical Scheme Tankwa Trek, presented by Biogen, in the books, riders and fans alike can look back on four days of grueling climbs, breathtaking scenery, and intense competition. Whether it was the battle for the men’s title or She Sends’ dominant performance, this year’s event showcased why the Tankwa Trek remains one of the most thrilling stage races on the calendar.
For full race results, visit www.tankwatrek.co.za.
