In this episode of the Freedom Trail Podcast, Steve Burnett sits down with 2026 Freedom Challenge winner Tim Deane to unpack the highs and lows, his preparation and experience on the trail.

Tim takes us behind the scenes of his winning race, sharing the countless decisions that ultimately led him to the finish line first. From race strategy and night time navigation to managing fatigue, and weather.

"It really is such a special experience and such a wonderful personal challenge. It's shared with such a strong community as well. There's a brotherhood and a sisterhood here that appreciate how hard it is for everybody to do this. It's special, but it's also damn hard. And whether or not you make it through to the finish, whether you have to pull out, amazing to see John Bowen after his seventh attempt being successful. Everybody's rooting for him. Everybody's sad for somebody who has to pull out for whatever reason. And we know they've gutted it out to that point. And eventually sometimes it's just too much. But we all appreciate what a beautiful but challenging endeavor this is, and that's why there's such a strong sense of community around it." Tim Deane

Full Freedom Challenge route description for a 21 day ride by Mike Woolnough

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With the launch of Race Across South Africa earlier this year, many people are asking how does it compare to the Freedom Challenge? Which one should I choose?

There is only one rider who has completed both the Freedom Challenge and Race Across South Africa. This year, Greg Fisher completed both epic events less than two months apart.

In this episode of the Freedom Trail Podcast, Greg reflects on the similarities and differences between these two extraordinary journeys. From the contrasting terrain and navigation challenges to pacing, strategy, sleep, mindset and the unique emotions each event evokes, he offers an honest perspective on what makes each race special.

Is one harder than the other? Which demands more mentally? How does the experience of riding the Freedom Challenge compare with that of Race Across South Africa?

Whether you're deciding which event is right for you, dreaming of taking on both, or simply fascinated by ultra-endurance racing, Greg's insights provide a rare and balanced comparison from someone who has lived both experiences.

Full Freedom Challenge route description for a 21 day ride by Mike Woolnough

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There may be less dots out there on Freedom Challenge 2026, four after today, but what a year it's been.

With Tim Deane surging out of Vuvu to do Lahana's pass at night and keeping his lead, and then needing to chase down Franco Olivier's time to Diemersfontein.

As always, Freedom reminds us that this race has never only been about who gets home first. Sometimes the most powerful finish line stories are from the other end of the field. In this case, not measured in days and hours, but in years of showing up, digging deep, and refusing to let go of a dream.

This year, John Bowen captivated us all. Eleven years of belief, seven attempts, setbacks, freezing nights, lessons, and unfinished business. And finally, a permanent number 366.

John's Freedom journey became something bigger than one rider chasing a personal goal. The entire Freedom family got behind him, and in those last nights on the trail, Riana's timestamps indicating John's safe arrival at support stations were daunting.

Donations pouring into the scholarship fund, turning everyone's support of John into something lasting. R60,000. One student's entire high school career has been sponsored It is a beautiful reminder of what this community really is. Yes, we race hard, but we care deeply too.

Tonight, we celebrate the winner, the finishers, those that didn't make the full route, and all who make part of this remarkable 2026 freedom story.

I'm Julia Fisher, and this is the Freedom Trail Podcast, proudly delivered to you by Igmi's Express.

Riders featured:

• Tim Deane
• Brett Rightford
• Schalk Burger
• Craig Bosenberg
• Ron Rutland
• Tara Baum
• Andrew Walker
• Claude Unge
• Gill Graaf
• John Graaf
• Philip Erasmus
• Tilla Uys
• John Bowen

Special Guest: David Waddilove

Full Freedom Challenge route description for a 21 day ride by Mike Woolnough

Click here to dot watch the race

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