It is with heavy hearts that we share the devastating news of the passing of Meurant Botha, the founder of Dirtopia, who tragically lost his life in a car accident on the morning of September 12, 2025. He passed away alongside his close friend and fellow cycling icon, JP van Zyl of Recycles Bike Shop. Their sudden departure has left the mountain biking world in shock, with family, friends, and the wider outdoor community mourning two men whose passion and dedication shaped the sport across South Africa and beyond.
Meurant was a true pioneer of South African mountain biking. Through Dirtopia, he brought a vision that changed the way people experienced cycling and the outdoors. His tireless energy went into building world-class trails, hosting memorable events, and creating spaces where riders could connect with nature and with each other. From competitive challenges to community rides and scenic wine walks, his work touched thousands of lives and inspired a culture of adventure and appreciation for the sport.
Those who knew Meurant remember him as someone who poured his heart into every project. He had a gift for bringing people together—whether on a trail, at an event, or in everyday conversation—and his enthusiasm was contagious. He encouraged countless riders, young and old, to embrace cycling not just as a sport but as a way of life. His creativity, leadership, and unwavering passion helped establish mountain biking as one of South Africa’s most cherished outdoor pursuits.
His friendship with JP van Zyl was equally special. Together, they shared a deep love for the sport and a determination to see it grow. Both men were admired not only for their professional achievements but also for their generosity, warmth, and ability to inspire others. Their tragic passing side by side is a reminder of the unbreakable bond they shared and the lasting impact they made together.
Meurant’s legacy will endure through the trails he built, the events he created, and the vibrant cycling community he helped foster. His influence will continue to guide and inspire riders for generations to come. He will be remembered as a pioneer, a mentor, a friend, and a man whose life’s work left South Africa’s cycling culture forever transformed.
