One of the things we love most about the Lions Karoo to Coast is that every rider arrives at the start line with a story.
Some are chasing a personal best.
Some are chasing a podium.
Others are simply chasing an adventure.
For first-time rider Teresa Coetzee, the 25th edition of the Lions Karoo to Coast is about all of those things — but most importantly, it’s about sharing an unforgettable experience with her son.
“I’m an average working mom, wife of one, and definitely not a professional cyclist,” Teresa says.
What she is, however, is someone whose life was changed by a bicycle.
Years ago, shortly after the birth of her second son, Teresa realised she needed to make some changes to her health and lifestyle. A simple piece of advice changed everything.
“Choose something you enjoy.”
For Teresa, that something turned out to be cycling.
What began as a few tentative rides soon developed into a lifelong passion that would take her across South Africa and into some of the country’s most iconic events.
Yet despite riding events such as the Cape Epic, Sani2C, Wines2Whales, Joberg2C, Tankwa Trek and TransBaviaans, the Lions Karoo to Coast remained one ride she had never experienced.
Until now.
“Karoo to Coast has always been on my bucket list,” she explains. “I’ve heard so many great things about the event over the years.”
This year she finally gets to tick it off — alongside her 20-year-old son, Xander.
“My son recently moved back home and I saw an opportunity,” she laughs. “I needed a training partner.”
That partnership didn’t last long.
“After a few rides he started dropping me like a bad habit!”
The good-natured banter between mother and son is exactly the kind of spirit that defines Karoo to Coast.
For Teresa, cycling has never been about winning races.
It has been about friendships.
Health.
Confidence.
Adventure.
And creating memories.
“Cycling completely changed my life,” she says. “My closest friends are people I met on a bike.”
Now she gets to share that gift with her son as he tackles his very first major cycling event.
“It feels like a full-circle moment.”
As we count down to the 25th edition of the Lions Karoo to Coast, Teresa’s story is a reminder that the event isn’t reserved for elite athletes.
It is for anyone willing to challenge themselves, embrace an adventure and create memories that last long after the finish line.
And perhaps that’s the real answer to the question:
Why do we ride?
Because some experiences are simply better when shared.
Welcome Escape Wines
We are also delighted to welcome Escape Wines as the Official Wine Partner of the 2026 Lions Karoo to Coast.
Riders and supporters can enjoy the Escape Wines experience throughout race weekend, including at the growing Wine & Wheels Expo in Uniondale.
Watch This Space…
We’re also preparing to announce an exciting new Official Bicycle Partner for the 25th edition.
Trust us — it’s worth the wait.
Route Update
Over the past few weeks, many riders have reached out to ask how the recent flooding in the Garden Route and Klein Karoo may impact the 2026 Lions Karoo to Coast.
The short answer is simple:
Planning for the event is continuing.
Our team is working closely with the relevant authorities to ensure we obtain the necessary permissions to deliver a safe and memorable 25th edition on Sunday, 27 September 2026.
Join Teresa and Xander on the Start Line
The Lions Karoo to Coast takes place on Sunday, 27 September 2026.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or considering your first 100km challenge, we’d love to welcome you to the K2C family.