Comeback Kid: Bianca Haw is Back Where She Belongs

As a Junior and U23 rider, Bianca Haw was South African XCO’s golden girl – Red Bull helmet and all. But then she stepped away from elite MTB racing to paddle canoes, launch a wedding business, and build Glencairn Farm into a thriving events venue in the Southern Drakensberg. Now, after a seven-year hiatus, she’s returned to the sport in a big way – with a 2025 Absa Cape Epic African Jersey title, three stage podiums, and third place overall.

We caught up with the youngest daughter of Farmer Glen, who grew up bombing down the legendary sani2c trails, to find out what sparked her return, how her season is unfolding, and what’s next.

Bianca, it’s your first full season back in the pro peloton – and what a comeback. What was the Cape Epic like for you?

The Cape Epic exceeded all my expectations. In March last year I watched it on TV, and it lit a fire in me – I knew I wanted to be on that start line in 2025. I had no plan, just a strong desire to race again. Fast forward to October at the Cape Pioneer, I had a chat with Rossouw Bekker from the Valley Electrical Titan Racing Team. He mentioned he was building a women’s team and asked if I’d be keen. At first I was hesitant – a team environment and turning pro again felt like a big commitment – but I knew I couldn’t pass up the opportunity.

Things moved fast over Christmas and New Year. Our team revolves around Danielle du Toit and myself, but with Danielle facing health challenges, we brought in Hayley Preen to partner with me at the Epic. We’d only met briefly, but she was fit and fired up, and we clicked instantly. Racing with her was an awesome experience – and the whole team setup made it such a memorable week.

Stage 6 was probably my hardest day – crazy speed, hectic mud, and my eyes felt like sandpaper by the finish. We’d had a powerful ride but still lost time on GC. That said, the team support and camaraderie made it all worth it.

You stepped away from racing after a strong start in your early 20s. What made you return now – and go all in?

Honestly, I just missed the speed and thrill. I’d been thinking about it for a while but hadn’t fully committed until three things happened in two weeks.

First, I heard a podcast that asked: “What do you want next to your name on your tombstone?” I realised “wedding planner” didn’t quite feel like the legacy I wanted. I still had unfinished business on the bike.

Then my old coach Johann Wykerd called out of the blue, asking if I’d ride the 20th sani2c with Frances Janse van Rensburg. He reckoned I had six weeks to go from zero to hero.

And finally, I joined a Tuesday time trial run and a Wednesday morning ride – and I suffered! But something in me reawakened. I wanted to be race-fit again.

Why did you stop racing XCO in the first place? What kept you busy in those years away?

I had amazing sponsors and support early on, but with that came pressure. I’ve always liked doing things my own way, which wasn’t always the smartest choice. Eventually, I lost the love for racing. I didn’t feel like I was giving 100%, and I wanted more from life.

That’s when I launched Glencairn Weddings, based at the sani2c start venue. Now Glencairn Farm is one of SA’s top wedding and events venues. We host yoga festivals, trail runs and more. Building the business was a full-time job – and still is. While I’m away racing, I’ve had to bring in help, but the venue is still running flat out with events every week.

Tell us about joining the Safari Essence Titan Racing Pro Team. How’s it going?

It’s been such a good fit. Rossouw manages the team, and we’ve got awesome sponsors and staff. The support setup at races is so great that it honestly feels like a holiday sometimes!

What races are you targeting next?

Right now I’m in Croatia to race the 4Islands Epic with Vera Looser. I’d love to complete the full Epic Series. If all goes to plan, I’ll also be racing at World Marathon Champs later this year.

Are you focused purely on marathon and stage racing now, or is there still XCO in your future?

At the moment, marathon is my focus. It’s a bit more forgiving while I build back my engine. But I’m not closing the door on XCO – I’d just need a good skills coach to fast-track that comeback.

Gravel riding is booming – any plans to get into it?

To be honest… I’m pretty bad at gravel! I haven’t had a great ride on a gravel bike yet. But I just got a new one, so we’ll see. I raced some guys doing sani2c nonstop on gravel bikes – they looked broken. I was on my MTB and I’ve never seen unhappier faces.

You grew up on the sani2c trails. What are your earliest MTB memories?

I was lucky to grow up in a mountain biking family. I was super stubborn – at age 7 or 8 I insisted on riding the full sani2c dry runs while my siblings hopped in the car. I’d just get my dad or his mates to push me along.

Top tip for technical trail riding?

Confidence is key. Hesitation is devastation. And always try follow someone through a section – it helps heaps.

A life lesson from the trails?

Don’t take life too seriously. None of us are making it out alive.

How hands-on are you with your bike maintenance?

I can fix a chain, plug a puncture and change a tyre – but don’t ask me to bleed brakes! That’s where our team mechanic Juben comes in. He’s a legend.

What’s the hardest part about being back in pro MTB? And the most fun?

The hardest part is trying to race at the top level while still running a business. But if you’ve decided to race with the best, you can’t make excuses – you just make it happen. The most fun? Giving the top women a proper run for their money!

Advice for anyone considering a career in MTB?

Keep it fun. Work hard. And while you have the chance, give it everything. It won’t last forever.

Raddest places to ride MTB?

Sani Pass, Karkloof, Stellenbosch, Paarl – and hopefully some international trails soon too.

What does your dream future look like?

I want to race as fast as I can, for as long as I can – but also prove there’s more to life than racing. Sport builds character and helps you deal with pressure in everyday life. I hope to inspire the younger generation to chase both: a career and pro racing. If you’ve got systems in place, it is possible. And always remember – your health is your wealth.

QUICKFIRE ROUND

Music? Everything

Movies? Minions

Secret talent? I can draw a decent flower

Holiday spot? Beach or forest

Pet peeve? Arrogance and negativity

Pre-race meal? Rice, sugar and cinnamon

Go-fast tip? Don’t touch your brakes

Bike essential? My Ford bakkie

What do your mates tease you about? How slow and chilled I talk

Favourite possession? My three dogs

Typical day? Up at 5am. Training 5–7am. Work 7am–4pm. Afternoon training from 4pm.