In a partnership that merges the alchemy of fine metals with the raw craft of fire and timber, the Nedbank Gravel Burn confirms a collaboration between Metcon, South Africa’s largest privately owned precious metals refinery and the Cape Town-based artisans at Donkey Long Tong, creators of the finest fire tools exported around the world.
Together, they are creating a trophy that brings together two of South Africa’s most iconic exports: gold and the braai. It will honour the champions of the largest prize purse in gravel racing history. But what the trophy actually is, and what it looks like, will remain under wraps until the official reveal on 7 October in Johannesburg.
What can be shared is this. It will be functional, personal and lasting. Each piece reflects South African materiality, character and craft. There are no replicas and no returns. Every winner receives something they keep, use and remember.
“We drew inspiration from tools rooted in fire and tradition,” said Nic Eve of Donkey Long Tong. “But we also wanted the materials and the feeling of the piece to speak to the landscape it comes from. This is something ancient in spirit, but completely original in form.”
Marcel Hattingh of Donkey Long Tong added, “We have worked with exceptional natural materials and processes that carry meaning. Every detail has been chosen with purpose. What we are building is not just a trophy. It is an object with soul.”
For the pro men’s and women’s category champions, the stakes are even higher. Their trophies will include solid gold, forged by Metcon from a portion of their prize money. It is up to the winners whether to redeem it or keep it. The decision, like the victory, is entirely theirs.
“We are proud to be part of something this meaningful,” said Grant Crosse, MD of Metcon. “At Metcon, we work with metal every day, but it is not often that we help create something that becomes both a reward and a memory.”
Metcon will also craft medals specially designed for the top professional men and women, and plate all category podium medals in gold, silver and bronze. A master engraver will be present at the finish to inscribe each winner’s name before they leave.
Kevin Vermaak, founder of the Nedbank Gravel Burn, said:
“There is a long-standing tradition in gravel racing of handing out prizes like rocks, swords, sweaters or belt buckles. And we love that. It is part of what gives gravel its character. We wanted to stay true to the spirit of gravel and create something truly iconic that riders would cherish. It is not just a reward. It is a reminder of what it took to earn it.”
The innovative Nedbank Gravel Burn trophies, alongside the Assos leader jerseys, will be revealed as a special launch cocktail reception for sponsors and media in Johannesburg on the evening of 7 October.
About the Nedbank Gravel Burn
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, sharing stories around the fire and conclude their journey at Shamwari Private Game Reserve, encountering Africa’s iconic Big 5 wildlife. The race inspires and challenges riders in equal measure.
For more, visit www.gravel-burn.com.
About Donkey Long Tong
Donkey Long Tong is a Cape Town-based company specialising in handcrafted fire tools designed for both function and presence. With a focus on natural materials, considered design and purposeful craftsmanship, its work brings attention and care to the everyday ritual of making fire. Each piece is made with intention. Built to endure, to be used, and to carry both purpose and story. While not typically producing sculptural works, Donkey Long Tong’s collaboration with the Nedbank Gravel Burn has offered an opportunity to extend its design philosophy into a more expressive and symbolic form.
For more, visit https://donkeylongtong.com.
About Metcon
Metcon is a leading South African precious metals refinery and fabricator, providing refined gold, silver, platinum and palladium to the jewellery, investment and manufacturing industries. With a commitment to craftsmanship, sustainability and precision, Metcon brings over 30 years of expertise to its partnerships — forging meaningful moments in metal that last a lifetime.
For more, visit https://metcon.co.za.
