The Lowveld’s Expedition Africa Adventure Race team, Jabberwock, secured a neck-on-neck victory in the 2026 Drakensberg race on March 20. After a gruelling 500km race, the team crossed the finish line around 11:00 am.

Jabberwock won against the Russian National team, Wild Trials. The team is traditionally known in the Adventure Racing World Series for being strong contenders in expedition races.

The multi-day, non-stop expedition started on March 15 2026 and competitors had to push through approximately 14,000 metres of vertical ascent.

• The finish line video, click HERE

Teams consist of four members, who have to navigate an unmarked course, relying only on a map and compass.

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The Jabberwock members are Sara Archdeacon, Harry Wiltshire, Craig Metherell and DeWaal Visser.

The cycling, trekking and kayaking event pushes athletes to their utmost limits over rugged terrain, demanding more than physical strength, requiring cyclists to use teamwork, navigation skills and mental grit.

According to Sara’s mother, Brenda Archdeacon, she is the youngest participant in the race.

Her and De Waal participated in the 250km Expedition Lite race in 2025 and it was their first time cycling in a 500km race.

Winning Expedition Africa provides team Jabberwock with a “Golden Ticket” – a fully paid, automatic entry into the Adventure Racing World Championship (ARWC) 2026. This year’s ARWC will be held on the island of Corsica, France.