Nedbank Gravel Burn proudly announces a strategic partnership with leading global challenger consultancy, Elixirr. As the Official Digital Transformation Partner, Elixirr will develop a robust and scalable ecosystem designed to enhance rider and fan engagement for Nedbank Gravel Burn and future events.
This collaboration is rooted in the vision of Nedbank Gravel Burn founder, Kevin Vermaak, who as a graduate electronic engineer spent the first 8 years of his career as an IT solutions architect before shifting gears. In 2004, he founded the iconic and globally acclaimed Cape Epic, known as the world’s premium mountain bike stage race.
From the start, Vermaak embedded technology into the Cape Epic’s core – building a custom platform with integrated registration, timing, results, and rider accounts – at a time when few events had such capabilities.
“Even before we had a route, digital was always going to be integral to the DNA of Nedbank Gravel Burn,” says Vermaak. “We want to create a platform that not only scales, but meaningfully enhances how participants and fans experience the race – from their first interaction to post-event engagement.”
With Elixirr as the Official Digital Transformation Partner, the Nedbank Gravel Burn platform will evolve into an intuitive hub for riders, supporters, and stakeholders – streamlining processes like registration, communication, content delivery, personalised rider photography and video integration, and event logistics, all with a data-driven backbone.
Elixirr, a publicly listed company with strong South African roots, boasts an impressive global portfolio that includes partnerships with high-profile global brands. Elixirr’s expertise in digital transformation, ongoing work with British Cycling, and official partnership with the Tour of Britain make them a natural fit to help Nedbank Gravel Burn set a new benchmark in digital engagement.
Stephen Newton, Founder and CEO of Elixirr, says, “We are thrilled to partner with Nedbank Gravel Burn and support Kevin and his team’s bold vision. This is more than a seven-day gravel race, it’s the foundation of a global gravel-cycling brand. With our expertise in building seamless digital platforms and delivering immersive, data-driven experiences, we’re excited to help redefine how riders and fans engage with the sport. Together, we aim to set a new benchmark for digital interaction in cycling, with technology and innovation at the core.”
The partnership underscores a shared belief in purposeful design and rider-first thinking. “This is more than technology,” concludes Vermaak. “It’s about building connection, community, and continuity – before, during, and long after race week.”
Nedbank Gravel Burn is a 7-day, 800km gravel stage race through South Africa’s diverse landscapes. From lush coastal forests to the vast Great Karoo, riders enjoy remote camps under starry skies and conclude their journey at Shamwari Private Game Reserve, encountering Africa’s iconic Big 5 wildlife. The race inspires, challenges and connects riders in equal measure.
For more information, visit www.gravel-burn.com
