The Big 5 MTB Challenge 2025 proudly presented by Imbuko Wines and Canetsfontein.

The 2025 Big 5 Challenge in South Africa showcased intense racing amidst challenging terrain and a top-tier international field. Competing in the Limietberg Mountains, riders faced a competitive atmosphere from the start. Early on, Marco Joubert and Nino Schurter struggled to keep pace as Luke Moir and Matt Beers drove the front. By 20km, Tristan Nortje led a group of six but took a wrong turn, allowing Beers, Moir, and Joubert to surge ahead, believing they were closing the gap on the leaders.

In a surprising turn during the final ascent, Filipo Colombo launched an impressive attack, overtaking all competitors to secure his second consecutive victory. Marco Joubert finished second, while Luke Moir claimed third. Tragically, Matt Beers faced a mechanical failure that ended his race before he could reach the podium.

In the women's race, Candice Lill continued her winning streak, solidifying her status as the Queen of The Mountain, especially in Vera Looser's absence due to illness. The event proved to be a thrilling prelude to upcoming competitions for all athletes involved.

Top 10 Men:
1st - 03:41:48 - Filipo Colombo (Scott SRAM)
2nd - 03:42:27 - Marco Joubert (Imbuko ChemChamp)
3rd - 03:45:06 - Luke Moir (Privateer)
4th - 03:45:59 - Nino Schurter (Scott SRAM)
5th - 03:46:28 - Tristan Nortje (Imbuko ChemChamp)
6th - 03:48:19 - Wout Alleman (Buff Megamo)
7th - 03:49:05 - Marc Pritzen (Honeycomb 226ers)
8th - 03:50:39 - Andri Frischknecht (Scott SRAM)
9th - 03:52:23 - Urs Huber (Bulls Bikes)
10th - 03:52:33 - Simon Stiebjahn (Singer KTM Racing)

Top 5 Women:
1st - 04:33:09 - Candice Lill ( Seattle Coffee Co / Sabi Sabi )
2nd - 04:43:13 - Emilly Johnston (Scott SRAM)
3rd - 04:49:05 - Bianca Haw (Safari Essence Titan Racing)
4th - 04:50:31 - Sam Sanders (Efficient Infiniti)
5th - 04:55:42 - Malene Degn ( Scott / GripGrab / Topeak / Good Habits)

To learn more about The Big 5 by Imbuko and Canetsfontein visit https://imbukobigfivemtbchallenge.co.za/

Find the full result here: https://www.bouttime.co.za/Results/

The Big 5 happens thanks to Imbuko Wines, Canetsfontein, Squirt Cycling products, Nutritech, Shimano, The Doolhof, Monarch Coffee Cartel, Festa Restaurant, Soul Barrel Brewery, Pomula, Elite Performance Factory, Specialized Paarl, and Food Lovers.