Chris van Dalen
08 Jun 2026
Cyclist for life*
The Grand Canyon Series brings together a collection of destination gravel and mountain bike events hosted in some of South Africa's most extraordinary riding locations. Each event has its own identity, story and character, creating memorable experiences for riders, families and local communities while celebrating the unique landscapes that make South African cycling so special.
Every great journey starts with a dream.
I have always been a dreamer, but more importantly, I have always been a cyclist. A Cyclist for Life.
My own journey began on the road before gradually evolving into mountain biking and, more recently, gravel cycling. Along the way, I have witnessed the incredible growth of cycling in South Africa and the way different disciplines bring people together. For many road cyclists, gravel offers a natural next step in their cycling journey. For mountain bikers, it presents a new challenge and another reason to get out and ride.
The vision behind the Grand Canyon Series is simple: to create a premium cycling environment that welcomes riders of all abilities while raising the standard of event experiences across the country. We believe that every cyclist deserves a professionally organised event, exceptional routes, outstanding hospitality and an atmosphere that inspires adventure, friendship and personal achievement.
More than a series of events, Grand Canyon Series is about building a cycling community, supporting local tourism, developing future generations of riders through the YoungStars programme, and creating experiences that leave a lasting impression long after the finish line.
Above all, it is a project driven by passion, purpose and a genuine love for cycling.
Because at the end of the day, we are all Cyclists for Life.
Chris van Dalen | Founder