2014 Absa Cape Epic Ride Guide

2014

RIDE GUIDE Where to watch who to watch and why Sauser vs Platt Meet Team Absa 10 years of Epic history

POWERING POSSIBILITY

CONTENTS 3 FROM THE EDITOR

42 CLASH OF THE TITANS

5 A WORD FROM THE FOUNDER

44 EVENT HISTORY

An unbreakable bond of suffering… and pride Kevin Vermaak on innovation, progress and surprises

5 THE POWER OF PARTNERSHIP

Inspiring words from Absa/Barclays Africa’s David Wingfield

6 MESSAGE FROM THE PREMIER OF THE WESTERN CAPE

Building a legacy of natural beauty while transforming lives

6 MESSAGE FROM EXXARO

Cycling as a catalyst for social upliftment

8 MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR OF CAPE TOWN Cycling’s role in a modern, sustainable, world-class city

8 MESSAGE FROM CAPE TOWN TOURISM A thank you to the organisers

14 CORPORATE PRIDE

It’s Platt vs Sauser

From crazy idea to the world’s premier mountain bike stage race

49 ROLL OF HONOUR Who won what, when

50 10 YEARS OF FINISHES A photographic exploration

57 FOOD AND DRINK

What’s eaten in eight days (that’s some grocery list)

58 SPECTATOR INFO The best seats in the house

60 ROUTE MAP

All the info at a glance

62 TOWNS AND DESTINATIONS

The men and women of Team Absa

Tour the best of the Western Cape

17 IT’S A FULL-TIME JOB

64 SMILE AND WAVE

Meet our hard-working staff

Why South Africa is to cycling what Hawaii is to surfing

18 THE EXXARO MTB ACADEMY

66 INTERNATIONAL CACHET

Started locally, already going international

Meet the celebs the Absa Cape Epic has drawn to our shores

20 AMABUBESI

Four ordinary people set their sights on their 10th Absa Cape Epic

22 BEWARE THE HYENAS!

Snarls of encouragement from those prowling behind you

26 GENDER EQUALITY

Sasol Oil bumps up the Women’s prize money to match the Men’s

28 WHO TO WATCH

69 THE ROUTE Each stage, in detail

81 STAGE9

The celebration you deserve

82 DAN THE MAN

Dan Nicholl’s memoirs from a broom closet, and an Epic wine-tasting route

86 HOSPITALITY

All the favourites for 2014

How fans can join in the fun at the Grand Finale at Lourensford

Camera guru Mark le Roux’s angle on the Absa Cape Epic

The real reason why we’re riding

38 SHARP SHOOTER

40 BY THE NUMBERS But then, who’s counting?

88 CHARITIES

96 IT TAKES TWO

Kevin McCallum on the psychology of a stage race

Editor Tim Brink Mapping Craig Beech Contributors Neil Gardiner, Sean Kristafor, Jazz Kuschke, Kevin McCallum, David Moseley, Dan Nicholl Photographers Gary Perkin, Nick Muzik, Greg Beadle, Karin Schermbrucker, Kelvin Trautman, Sam Clark, Cindy Taylor, Sportograf.com Media coordinator/Advertising Sales Samantha Wright RAMSAYMEDIA SBC PUBLISHING General manager Andrew Solomon Production manager Briggette America Senior copy editor Yaron Blecher Copy editors Steven Albert, Mariola Fouché Proofreader Margy Beves-Gibson Head designer Yolande Verhoef Designers Sam Nadelman, Lesley van Schalkwyk Printed by CTP Cape Town

www.cape-epic.com www.cape-epic.com

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BEST OF BREED So it’s been 10 years. As can be expected, much has changed since the inaugural Cape Epic rolled out of a misty Knysna in 2004.

I am still in contact with many of the guys and girls who joined me, similarly nervous and excited, on that first start line, and life has been busy all-round – babies, marriages, divorces, new jobs, same old jobs, emigration, immigration… All change.

Yet there is a constant that binds us, and any other Absa Cape Epic finishers, and which separates us from “normal” mountain bikers. A little like you aren’t a runner until you have murdered your knees on a Comrades marathon, the Epic is the ultimate badge of honour. It still amazes me – the cross-section of the cycling community that rides this silly thing. Downhillers, track stars, novices, models, rugby prop forwards, roadies, young, old, married couples (who manage to stay that way), school buddies, complete strangers… A never-ending supply of unlikely combinations that, over eight days, become accomplished mountain bikers and lifelong friends, through a shared conquest.

My first Epic was spent reminding my partner, who insisted he was a roadie, that just by doing what we were doing he had become a mountain biker. Yes, I hear the peanut gallery saying an Epic, with its open roads and manicured singletrack, doth not a mountain biker make. But that is nonsense. Nobody finishes an Epic without being bloody good at riding a bike off-road. Add to that an enhanced love for riding a bike in the great outdoors (mountain biking is more about location, anyway, than the perceived gnarliness of the trail) and, in my book, qualification as a knobbly knight is automatic. It is a badge even the humblest of finishers must wear with pride.

The event has grown beyond anyone’s expectations (except, maybe, founder Kevin Vermaak’s) and is now regarded as the premier mountain-biking event in the world. The amount of international exposure it gets matches legendary events such as the Dakar sufferfest and any other cycling coverage bar, perhaps, the Tour de France. The famous names you will see later on in this publication are the lucky ones, the celebrities and pros who had the clout to make their way to sunny South Africa and see what the Western Cape has to offer. The waiting list is long, even if you bring marketing value to the event, and the Absa Cape Epic office has a long list of the rich and famous – both celebrity and accomplished pro rider – knocking on the door each year, looking for a ride.

But there isn’t room for them all, as one of the pillars on which the Epic has been built is local participation by the likes of you and me. The riders who spend working days planning their predawn training; who disappear on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day for back-to-back 200km tempo sessions (true story) with the blessing of our families, and repeating that negotiating miracle on New Year’s Day. The people who eat, breathe and sleep this crazy event for the six months leading up to it, who skip that second glass of wine and catch catnaps when the kids or the lunch guests aren’t looking.

And spend the other six months quietly scheming a return.

We are a special breed that has found a pack of like-minded nutters to run with. Ride with. To the Class of 2014, welcome.

We are with you all the way on this ride of a lifetime.

Tim Brink Editor

www.cape-epic.com 3

A WORD FROM THE FOUNDER

KEVIN VERMAAK Race Founder

O

f all my best moments at the Absa Cape Epic, one of the proudest was watching the last riders cross the line at Lourensford at the 2013 event.

It marked the conclusion of our 10th edition and of the first decade of the event. I thought about how far we’d come in so many respects, and how that was a direct reflection of

the commitment of our fantastic team who continually strive to develop and innovate. Looking to the future of the event, and of mountain biking in general, one of our key resolutions has been to address the inequality in women’s cycling. Late last year I resolved to ensure the introduction of equal prize money for the men and women. Sasol, another proudly South African brand, has long supported women’s sport in South Africa, and together we’ll now play a major role in bolstering women’s mountain biking. Sasol Oil deserves a huge amount of credit for this, since our prize pot was already the largest in mountain bike stage racing.

We’re proud to welcome three new sponsors for 2014. Columbia is a premium outdoor apparel brand, and its products will be the official outdoor lifestyle apparel of the Absa Cape Epic.

Also on board is our official luggage and hydration pack sponsor Evoc, maker of what are regarded as the best bicycle bags available, designed specifically to accommodate the oversized wheels of today’s stage-racing bikes. Assos will be

making our category leaders’ jerseys.

Needing little introduction to the biking world, this Swiss family-owned brand manufactures the finest cycling clothing in the business. The riders’ registration packs will certainly be bountiful in 2014.

I’m delighted to announce that Absa has signed a new five-year deal, making this the longest-running sports sponsorship at South Africa’s best-known financial institution after the Absa Currie Cup. This makes a real statement about the prestige of mountain biking in South Africa.

I could not imagine a better sponsor than Absa – its brand ideals are neatly aligned with ours, both in partnerships and in celebrating the human spirit.

Returning to my first point about innovation: in May 2014 we’ll announce some radical changes to the race format.

Like the riders who left Knysna for the last time in 2008, riders participating in this year’s race will be the last to experience the “old” Epic, as the race is entering its next era from 2015 onwards.

That’s all I’ll say for now. Good luck to the riders – enjoy, absorb and savour it!

THE POWER OF PARTNERSHIP

DAVID WINGFIELD Chief Marketing Officer Barclays Africa

W

elcome to the 2014 edition of the Absa Cape Epic. Absa has been the proud title sponsor of the Absa Cape Epic since 2006, and our ongoing partnership with this iconic mountain bike stage

race has officially been extended to 2018. Partnership is the very essence of the Absa Cape Epic, and the formation of valuable and sustainable partnerships is central to the way in which Absa does business.

Our aim is to be an inspiration to others, to provide motivation and to encourage people to excel. To help people achieve their ambitions is something for which we as an organisation continually strive.

Our role is to provide an opportunity for our clients to achieve their ambitions of conquering the Absa Cape Epic, and we hope to make your journey just a little easier and a little more enjoyable, so that when you cross

the finish line, you can reflect on this truly life-changing experience. It is an honour for us to be associated with the Absa Cape Epic, the global benchmark for mountain bike stage racing, and we are proud to have played a small role in growing the event to what it is today.

To all the riders in the race this year – we trust that your 2014 Absa Cape Epic experience will be one of the most memorable achievements of your life.

We wish you and your partner a successful race, and we look forward to cheering every one of you over the final finish line at Lourensford Wine Estate on Sunday, 30 March 2014.

When the human spirit triumphs, we prosper. www.cape-epic.com 5

MESSAGE FROM THE PREMIER OF THE WESTERN CAPE

O HELEN ZILLE Premier Western Cape

n behalf of the Western Cape Government, I would like to welcome the participants of the 2014 Absa Cape Epic as they take on this challenging mountain bike stage race, which demands perseverance and determination.

We consider it a privilege for the Western Cape to host this event, the largest of its kind in the world, and it continues to boost our drive to position the province as a desirable destination for sports tourism.

The race has helped enhance the Western Cape’s reputation for staging world-class sporting events amid spectacular scenery, which gives visitors a chance to enjoy the beauty of Cape Town and the province as a whole. The sportsmanship in the eight-day race

combined with the idyllic landscape are part of the legacy we want to build year after year. We hope visitors who come from other parts of South Africa and around the world take advantage of all that is on offer.

The Absa Cape Epic has also become known for raising money for charity and social development. We are grateful to the organisers, sponsors and participants for their contribution to community upliftment in the region. We believe that sport can play a crucial role in transforming young people’s lives through identifying and developing talent, building self-esteem and providing role models for our youth.

I hope the 2014 event is an even bigger success than last year, and I wish all participants, especially the first-time competitors, all the stamina they need.

MESSAGE FROM EXXARO

W SIPHO NKOSI CEO Exxaro Resources

THE UNTAMED AFRICAN MTB RACE 6

hen it comes to determination, teamwork and sheer willpower, there are few events to rival the Absa Cape Epic.

But mountain biking is more than just an event. It embodies an ethos which in its absolute physical challenge offers the young riders of the Exxaro MTB Academy the chance to embrace a healthy lifestyle and to be inspired to build a positive future for themselves, their families and their communities.

That’s why Exxaro has chosen to foster the sport as a catalyst for change, and to introduce mountain biking into

historically disadvantaged communities.

The Exxaro MTB Academy teams are now a familiar scene at the annual Absa Cape Epic race.

In the past two years, these teams have made us proud – demonstrating commitment, motivation, endurance, care and support for one another, which resulted in excellent performances. I have no doubt that this year’s event will deliver the same accolades.

I wish the Exxaro teams, as well as all the other participants in the field, all the best for the race.

There may be a mountain to climb, but there’s a lot riding on it!

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MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE MAYOR OF CAPE TOWN

T PATRICIA DE LILLE Executive Mayor Cape Town

he Absa Cape Epic has evolved from its origins as a cycling race to being a celebrated part of the City’s annual signature events.

It embodies the City’s ongoing efforts to position Cape Town as the events capital of the continent by bringing together cyclists from all over the world to compete in the most gruelling cycling contest while exploring Cape Town’s natural beauty.

We are committed to building an inclusive Cape Town, a city that develops sustainably into the future.

As we face new global challenges, we have to adapt to new types of urban living. In many ways, that future requires a move away from the practices of the past towards eco-friendly pursuits that promote a healthier environment.

As a modern global city, Cape Town promotes cycling as an alternative means of transport that also encourages healthy lifestyles.

We are privileged to live in one of the most beautiful parts of the world, and everything we do should be a celebration of our natural environment.

The Absa Cape Epic does all of this and more. We salute all those who push themselves to the limits in the race itself and the many others who are brought together by the experience.

We welcome all of you to Cape Town and thank you for helping us make this city rich in adventure.

I hope that the Absa Cape Epic will continue to attract cyclists from all over the world to experience this unique and challenging race.

MESSAGE FROM CAPE TOWN TOURISM

T NILS FLAATTEN CEO, Wesgro

THE UNTAMED AFRICAN MTB RACE 8

he Absa Cape Epic is an exciting time of year for many people, both on and off the bike. While the athletes have been putting in many demanding hours of training in the build-up to this worldclass event, behind the scenes the many towns the race journeys through have also been preparing to be the best possible hosts.

As official destination marketing partner of the Absa Cape Epic, we are proud to be able to showcase our regions, including Cape Town, Robertson, Greyton, Elgin and Somerset West, which offer not only pristine backdrops for this mountain-biking spectacular, but also have much to offer spectators and race followers.

Food, wine, art, history and a plethora of outdoor activities are available, and

the various tourism bureaus are on hand to share advice and help plan your perfect itinerary. While we hope the riders achieve all their goals and cross the finish line in one piece, we also hope they will take some time to mingle with locals, embrace South African customs and marvel at our ingenuity.

Indeed, the Absa Cape Epic is one example of just such a plan by Kevin Vermaak, who dreamt up the event; and Wesgro is proud to have witnessed its growth from year to year.

Even before the start gun goes off, several congratulations must already be handed out to the organisers for their months of tireless effort.

On behalf of Wesgro, I wish you a fantastic race, and hope that you find the time to enjoy the province in a more relaxed manner soon.

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TJDR 55565

Absa Bank Ltd Reg No 1986/004794/06 Authorised Financial Services Provider Registered Credit Provider Reg No NCRCP7

It’s the courage within that tells you not to surrender when the going gets tough.

You’ll call on it when it’s only you, your bike, your partner and the greatest challenge. #ProsperSA

When the human spirit triumphs, we prosper.

“My body says it’s a 1 800 metre climb, my human spirit says it’s downhill.”

CORPORATE PRIDE

Team Absa has been an integral part of Absa’s sponsorship of the Cape Epic, a group of ambassadors who represent the bank and the theme of The Human Spirit.

“We select a combination of experienced and ‘newbie’ riders to ensure the successful completion of the race by the whole team,” says David Wingfield, Head of Marketing, Barclays Africa. The team will be riding to raise funds for the Diepsloot Mountain Bike Academy (DMBA), their nominated charity for 2014. The DMBA is based at Northern Farm in Johannesburg, and provides a platform to expose the youth of Diepsloot to the sport of mountain biking, to enhance their education through maths and English tutoring, and to impart lifeskills to the community.

“Team Absa has always been our way of championing the human spirit at the Absa Cape Epic. Every year we see ordinary people put their bodies on the line for a cause greater than themselves. For 2014 and the years beyond, we hope to intensify the impact of Team Absa’s efforts, as well as our own as the title sponsor of the Absa Cape Epic. We aim to leave a lasting legacy as we bring hope to the community of Diepsloot and empower the next generation with the skills they need to prosper.”

Follow the team on Twitter: @absa and Facebook: www.facebook.com/Absa.Bank

Andre Ross and Hlubi Mboya

ANDRE ROSS AND HLUBI MBOYA

THE UNTAMED AFRICAN MTB RACE 14

They are the big and small partnership of Team Absa. Andre, a banker, is the experienced rider, participating in his fourth Absa Cape Epic, while Hlubi, an actress and activist, only got onto a mountain bike for the first time in 2013.

Hlubi, who once featured in Isidingo, is 1,53m of perpetual energy. Her motto, “train insane or remain the same”, describes her to a T. Hlubi and Andre make a good team, blessed with a sense of humour and dedication. Last year, Hlubi climbed Kilimanjaro on International Women’s Day and decided to keep on “conquering mountains”, the theme for her

JOEL STRANSKY AND STEFAN TERBLANCHE

next challenge, the Absa Cape Epic. “I’m not known for doing things in small measures.”

Andre, a self-confessed couch potato, was sitting at home watching the 2010 Absa Cape Epic when he was inspired to ride, losing 26kg while getting ready for the 2011 Epic. He rode for Team Absa in 2012, helping rally driver Gugu Zulu through one of the toughest races in years. Andre is the chairman of the Diepsloot MTB Academy. “Working with Hlubi reminds me of my first Absa Cape Epic, when I started from scratch,” says Andre.

Joel Stransky and Stefan Terblanche Joel Stransky and Stefan Terblanche never got the chance to play together in their rugby careers, but the former Sharks and Springboks will make up for that on the 2014 Absa Cape Epic.

It will be Joel’s fifth Epic and Stefan’s first.

Both riders are impressively strong, with Stefan, who retired from the sport in 2012, bringing a pair of seriously ripped rugby legs to the party. He has the guns to match the experience of his partner.

Joel has become a fanatical cyclist and is also an Ironman finisher. “The feeling of crossing the Absa Cape Epic finish line is absolutely addictive. The Absa Cape Epic has become a way of life for me.” It won’t be hard to spot Joel at the Absa Cape Epic. He always rides with a red mohawk on his helmet, for the Lumohawk Foundation, his own charity that helps underprivileged children.

Stef, who scored 19 tries in 37 tests for the Boks, and captained the Sharks to the Absa Currie Cup in 2010, is now the CEO of SA Rugby Legends, which provides a platform for retired players to aid development of the sport in previously disadvantaged areas.

“Ever since I got hooked on mountain biking, I have wanted to do the Absa Cape Epic,” says Stef, “I am most worried about mechanical breakdowns – I can endure pain, but I’m no good at fixing anything.”

ERNST VILJOEN AND LIEZEL VAN DER WESTHUIZEN

rnst Viljoen and E Liezel van der Westhuizen Ernst Viljoen, the manager of Team Absa, will be riding his sixth Absa Cape Epic in 2014, partnering with television and radio personality Liezel van der Westhuizen, who will be making her debut.

Liezel, nicknamed “the Giraffe”, is no stranger to endurance events, having completed the Ironman and the Dusi Canoe Marathon. Her parents were watching the highlights of the Absa Cape Epic on TV last year, and her mum said to her dad, “I bet you Liezel is going to do this event one day.” Lo and behold, the Giraffe got onto a mountain bike in July 2013 for the first time and is on track to line up for the start this year.

Ernst has 46 years of cycling experience for Liezel to lean on. Last year he guided Letshego Moshoeu through the Absa Cape Epic, and the year before that, Elana Meyer, the 1992 Olympic silver medallist. He is famous for putting off treatment for prostate cancer a few years ago so he could ride in the Absa Cape Epic. This will be his ninth time leading Team Absa at the Epic. “I am extremely thankful that I can get back on my bike and ride again. Being healthy is not something I take for granted,” says Ernst.

Owen Hannie and William Mokgopo Owen Hannie, the former professional road cyclist turned TV and radio sports presenter, thinks that he and William Mokgopo, the rising mountain-biking star from Diepsloot, might be able to get a top-50 finish if they push hard enough.

“I reckon we should go for top 30,” says William.

Owen may find this to be the toughest of his five Absa Cape Epics yet, together with William, who represented the South African national team in the under-23 race at the World Championships. This will be William’s third Absa Cape Epic.

Now aged 21, he has an impressive list of results, finishing 17th overall in the 2012 Joberg2C and seventh in the 2012 94.7 MTB Cycle Challenge. In 2013 he was 17th in the elite category at

www.cape-epic.com 15

the South African Marathon Champs. The two bring different strengths to the race. Owen is strong on the flats and rolling hills, while William has the body and speed of a climber.

William, a sports science student at UJ, is a product of the Diepsloot MTB Academy, the charity Team Absa will be raising money for at the 2014 Epic. He works as a coordinator at the academy, mentoring the younger riders, including his 15-yearold brother Tlele.

Owen was the first cyclist of colour to represent South Africa at the 1999 UCI World Champs. He is now one of the most recognisable faces in South African cycling as a presenter of SuperCycling, a weekly TV magazine show.

layton Duckworth and C Kevin McCallum Clayton Duckworth and Kevin McCallum, who will ride as Team Absa Flying McDucks, are the clowns of Team Absa, full of wisecracks and jokes, both on and off the bike.

The two first met as members of Team Absa in 2012, when Clay rode with Vanessa Haywood, and Kevin, with Jack Stroucken of Absa.

Kevin has been the chief sports writer at The Star since 2000 and has covered pretty much every sporting event possible, including three Olympics, four Paralympics, the Commonwealth Games, Tour de France, and rugby, football and cricket world cups. He has been named the SAB Sports Columnist of the year three times, and Sports Writer of the Year once. His job, he says, is to “travel the world, watch sport and drink beer”.

“Beer is the reason I am riding the Absa Cape Epic again,” says Kevin, who will be riding for the second time. “When I was asked to ride in 2012, I was in a bar and a bit tipsy, and said yes. The same thing happened for the 2014 Absa Cape Epic. They know my weakness.”

This will be Clay’s third Absa Cape Epic, and his third with Team Absa, and Kevin will be the ugliest of his three partners thus far. Clay, an engineer, rode with actress and model Vanessa Haywood in 2012 and TV personality Janez Vermeiren in 2013.

“I have known Kev for a few years now, and even though we don’t stand a chance of winning the 2014 Absa Cape Epic, we will definitely have a great time.” Just as long as Kevin gets his beers, Clay.

CLAYTON DUCKWORTH AND KEVIN MCCALLUM OWEN HANNIE AND WILLIAM MOKGOPO

THE UNTAMED AFRICAN MTB RACE 16

IT’S A FULLTIME JOB. IN FACT, IT’S 21 “What do you do the rest of the year?” is the most commonly asked question.

The Absa Cape Epic staff member answers with a knowing smile, then explains (highly summarised, of course) how hosting the world’s premier mountain bike stage race is indeed a 24/7, 365 job.

When 1 200 riders enjoy a shower after a hard and dusty day out, when they refresh their parched throats with a beer in the Chill Zone, when they are greeted by thousands of townsfolk cheering them on as they pass through villages, and when TV viewers all over the world watch the best mountain bikers on the planet fight for line honours – spare a thought for the crack team that keeps the water hot, the beverages cold and the huge yet intricate logistics machine purring along smoothly in the background.

Every detail is considered, right down to how long it takes the average rider to drink a cup of Energade. There’s a popular story about how in 2003 race founder Kevin Vermaak timed himself

erecting and disassembling a tent, to calculate how long it would take to pitch 1 200 of them. This culture permeated the dedicated crew, and all possible logistical elements of the race were recorded, quantified and committed to a giant master spreadsheet – a blueprint for the Absa Cape Epic.

It could be argued that the Absa Cape Epic is a one-of-a-kind event – no other bike race features this level of organisation, and to find staff members who are up to the demands of the world’s premier mountain bike stage race isn’t easy. Vermaak carefully picks each one of them, from a variety of trades.

Race Director Kati Csak is essentially Vermaak’s second in command.

All aspects of the race rest on her shoulders. Take the route, for instance: she personally rides what has been meticulously designed over months and months by a team of four, in its entirety.

This level of rigour gives her the uncanny ability to calculate the arrival time of the front riders at each water point – almost to the minute. Any complaint from riders about the severity of the day’s course is met with a raised eyebrow.

Logistics Manager Karen Clements has worked in the events industry all

around the world. Presiding over affairs in the race village in her trademark Stetson, she’s the first to wake and most often the last to rest her head.

The town and venue liaison with the key people of the region helps them maximise the opportunity of hosting 1 200 riders from all over the world, as well as their supporters.

Sports management graduate Sarah Harrop previously had the unenviable job of answering the whims and fancies of the riders. She is widely known for her remarkable ability to keep a cheerful demeanour, and from 2014 has been tasked with looking after the media contingent of 120, before and during the event.

Michael Flinn first joined the Epic family while studying sports science, and now manages the deployment of the almost 800 crew members. The size of his section of the giant master spreadsheet is significant, to say the least.

These are only a few of the fulltime staff at the Absa Cape Epic.

Some have been working with Kevin Vermaak for 10 years, matching the high standards that he sets for himself.

When it comes to the full- and part-time crew, from the bar crew at the Chill Zone to the chopper pilots, it’s extremely rare to find an idle pair of hands, because once the dust has settled on this year’s Absa Cape Epic, there’s next year’s race to think about, and no less than 18 months is required to plan it. While the riders are poring over the map and profile of the following day’s stage, the staff is already designing the 2016 route. www.cape-epic.com 17

PUTTING HOPE INTO In August 2011, Exxaro was announced as a headline sponsor and official development academy partner of the Absa Cape Epic.

As a consequence of this announcement, the Exxaro MTB Academy was established with the aim of introducing the mountain-biking experience to historically disadvantaged communities and individuals, and ultimately to assist in transforming the sport in South Africa.

By partnering with the Absa Cape Epic, Exxaro has chosen to use the sport as a catalyst for change. It hopes to help the youth of our country to fulfil their dreams, and through those dreams, help rebuild their communities.

Less than a year after the Exxaro MTB Academy was established, it delivered its first success stories. In 2012, nine

THE UNTAMED AFRICAN MTB RACE 18

teams of previously disadvantaged riders participated in the Absa Cape Epic, and three of those teams finished in the top 100 of the elite Men’s category in 57th, 73rd and 75th places respectively.

Azukile Simayile and Siphosenkosi Madolo won the inaugural Exxaro Development jersey, and went on to ride their first race abroad. They successfully completed the TransAlp race in Europe – their best result for the week was finishing in 48th place during one of the stages.

In 2013, the 10th edition of the Absa Cape Epic saw 13 Exxaro Academy development teams lined up at the start, one of which was the very first women’s development team ever. It was an emotional moment for the women when Rozalia Kubwana and Alisha Myers crossed the line, finishing 14th overall in the Women’s category.

EXXARO MTB ACADEMY VISION To introduce the mountain-biking experience to historically disadvantaged communities and individuals, and ultimately to assist in transforming the sport in South Africa.

OBJECTIVES

THE CYCLE Results of the top three development teams improved significantly from 2012, with overall finishes in 39th, 59th and 66th place. Phillimon Sebona and Prince Maseko won the Exxaro Development jersey, and again the Academy sponsored an entry into the TransAlp race. This was also their first international experience, and they finished 30th in the last stage and 45th overall.

The Exxaro Development Academy is now providing a house for the top 10 riders, where they are receiving nutritional guidance, specific individual training programmes and sport psychology assistance. Exxaro recently started formal career guidance and study assistance for these riders.

Exxaro Resources CEO Sipho Nkosi comments, “While there may be power in what we do, there’s also unlimited possibility for the people we touch. Powering possibility in many ways!”

• I ncrease the number of historically disadvantaged South African riders participating in MTB. • Increase the number of historically disadvantaged South African riders participating in and finishing events like the Absa Cape Epic, and thereby establishing them as role models for young kids.

• Associate Exxaro with empowerment, leadership and support of the transformation of MTB in South Africa.

• Contribute to the upliftment of Exxaro’s communities – bringing MTB to the people.

• Use sport (MTB) and a healthy lifestyle to improve people’s quality of life.

• Create change in the lives of communities by providing young people with a healthy alternative – sport vs drug and alcohol abuse.

• Inspire children/young adults to build a positive future for themselves and their families, thereby creating an environment to fulfil their dreams and rebuild communities.

OFFICIAL DEVELOPMENT ACADEMY PARTNER

www.cape-epic.com 19

TEN-TIMERS

Four thousand five hundred and eighty-three riders have completed this gruelling eight-day mountain bike stage race over the past 10 years (it was nine days for those unfortunate enough to have chosen to ride in 2008), but only nine special athletes have completed all 10 Absa Cape Epics. In 2014, four more aim to join that elite club: Joyce Benade, Johan Labuschagne, Pieter Lategan and Ben van Niekerk share their experiences of pain, joy, sacrifice, disappointment, adventure, punishment, thrills, setbacks and ultimately glory over the last decade.

JOYCE BENADE LECTURER

I HEARD ABOUT THE EPIC when I read the blogs of Bonnie Swanepoel and Terry Kobus. We were three riders from Kwambonambi who were keen to ride, and on the day the entries opened we were on the internet at midnight… and we waited and waited and then decided to take turns to check.

At 4am we got in!

IN 2005 I MENTALLY PREPARED MYSELF by calling it a “tour” and not a “race”, as I was going to “tour” from water table to water table – eat the elephant piece by piece!

THE EPIC DOES NOT BECOME EASIER as you get older. The

THE UNTAMED AFRICAN MTB RACE 20

routes have changed and it has become much more technical.

IN ALL NINE EVENTS I have never had a puncture. In 2004, tubeless tyres were new technology to us cycling in Northern Natal, but this was always the way to go!

THE TORTOISES AND CHAMELEONS ARE MY FAVOURITE PART – I always stop and watch them, and often take them out of the road.

MY BEST ADVICE IS: don’t focus on just one pain. If your leg is sore, think about your shoulder that also hurts. Then think about your finger…

IT WAS NOT FUNNY AT THE TIME, but in 2008, riding towards Hermanus, a rider blew his nose and onto my leg. I tried to wash it off with water but it did not move, and I could not scrape it off either. Eventually I had to stop and remove it with a protea branch.

JOHAN LABUSCHAGNE BUSINESS ANALYST

I DON’T RECOMMEND USING THE SAME BIKE TWICE for the Epic, unless you ride it very little or rebuild the major parts.

THERE ARE SO MANY HARD MOMENTS, but the pain is temporary and those moments are forgotten very quickly.

ON STAGE 1 IN 2006 I HAD NO BRAKES, because of the weather, and when we were dropping down towards George at blistering speeds I had to use my feet and logs to slow down.

THE PEOPLE THAT INSPIRE ME are the old toppies like Linus van Onselen and Doug Brown, who make me feel that I have many years left in the sport. Also inspiring are the working executives like Stan Goetch from Dis-Chem and many others, and guys like Sakkie and Hannes Hanekom, Gerrie Beukes and Adrian Enthoven, who race very hard but are the kindest people with amazing integrity.

I FIT IN LONG HOURS OF TRAINING by commuting to work. This takes away most of the pressure, and helps the family cope better.

MY FIVE MOST ESSENTIAL ITEMS ARE: Assos shorts – after nine-and-a half Epics I have not had a single saddle sore; chamois cream – for the same reason; my own pillow – I sleep better at night; Schwalbe Racing Ralph – I swear by these tyres, and have been using them since my second Epic.

EVERY YEAR WE PICK A DIFFERENT CHARITY – this year it is the SW Wildlife Trust, last year it was the Stop Rhino Poaching Trust, the year before it was Ride For Sight.

MY HARDEST MOMENT was in 2012 at the halfway mark on Stage 4, when I broke my collarbone and could not finish my ninth Epic – devastating.

I COPE MENTALLY BY breaking the race into bite-size chunks, like sections between the water points/feeding stations – that really helps.

IT’S THE ONE WEEK IN THE YEAR where I can switch off my cellphone and forget about reality and the world out there and only do the thing that I love best.

PIETER LATEGAN

GENERAL PRACTITIONER

BEN VAN NIEKERK UTILITY MANAGER

I WAS HOOKED WHEN I read an article by Gary Fisher about a mountain bike stage race in Europe. Less than a year later, Kevin announced the Cape Epic and I was sold. What better way to ride your bike with your buddies for a week through the Western Cape’s beauty?

MY TRAINING PROGRAMME has not changed much – I knew when I signed up for the first race that I was going to be in serious trouble if I didn’t get help, so I bought Joe Friel’s Mountain Biking Training Bible and based my training on it from day one.

MY EQUIPMENT HAS CHANGED SIGNIFICANTLY since 2004, to the point where even sock technology is not what it used to be.

ON THE DAY OF THE PROLOGUE OF MY 10TH EPIC, I’ll be turning 50. Last year the final stage marked my daughter’s 21st birthday. She rode with my son that year, and in 2014 she’s aiming to join the Amabubesi club.

I DON’T TRAIN FOR THE ABSA CAPE EPIC. Instead I just play squash three times a week – the two complement each other really well. The race is 90% in your head and 10% in your legs.

THE KEY TO THE RACE is that I don’t aim to win it. The second and third time I rode, I asked myself why. Then I thought, “Let me just enjoy it!” I am happy with finishing somewhere in the middle.

And every time I ride, it gets nicer and nicer.

WHENEVER WE SEE A DAM WE GO FOR A SWIM, if it’s a hot day. Everyone that rides past says that they should be doing the same, but they never do. It lowers the body’s core temperature and it’s good for the spirit – you feel great afterwards! We may lose a few minutes, but we always pass the guys again.

www.cape-epic.com 21

THE BACKSIDE OF THE EPIC Come race week, and the media is abuzz with Epic fever. Race reports cover the leaders, describing the action at the front in great detail: who won, who was pipped at the finish, who crashed, and so on.

However, far less is said about what happens at the back of the field, where there’s just as much drama. By Sean Kristafor This end of the race is often best viewed through the eyes of the route sweepers – more infamously known among the backmarkers as “the Hyenas”, prowling at the back of the Untamed African Mountain Bike Race, stalking the last riders of the herd and picking up the weakest ones. That’s us.

Tracking the front riders is easy, with all the marshals and media crew, but knowing who and where the last rider is can be much trickier. That’s where we come in. We’re in constant radio contact with the race route management team, feeding them information about who is at the back and the state they’re in. This can help management make decisions about reallocating resources such as water points, marshals, and emergency personnel – if there’s extreme weather, for instance.

My wife Liesbet and I rode as Hyenas for the first time in 2013, having completed the race four times each. Each year, we ride the route twice – the first time is in September, when we do the official trial ride. This makes us the first and last riders to ride each year’s race.

Riding slowly at the back is not as easy as it sounds. We spend up to 12 hours a day in the saddle, and usually complete

THE UNTAMED AFRICAN MTB RACE 22

You can identify the Hyenas by their kit and official number boards – don’t let them catch you!

the race in just over 70 hours – well over double the time of the winning team. The pace varies between 1,5km/h and 45km/h.

Why the huge variation? Sometimes when we follow the last team in the race, we go so slowly that we almost fall off our bikes. Then if they drop out, we have to sprint like mad to catch the next last team (and stalk them).

It’s a team race and, of course, we have experienced a number of team meltdowns. On Stage 1 in 2013, about 60km into the stage, we came across a husband-and-wife team in the middle of a huge falling-out. We backed off for a few minutes to let the scene play out (we’re not permitted to offer any outside assistance, just moral support). After a short while I told the wife to climb back onto her bike. She promptly complied, but the husband immediately asked why she had listened to me and not him… They didn’t make it to the last water point.

We also get to witness incredible camaraderie and heartwarming team spirit. Once, we came across a rider who’d teamed up with his brother-in-law, who was significantly weaker and struggling. However, the rider refused to leave his relative’s side, even though he would finish outside the maximum allotted time and would not be classified as an Official Finisher. His only consolation was being interviewed on national television.

He might even be a celebrity in his home town now.

The race route radio communication keeps us entertained with the activities of the day, much like a soap opera would, but mostly we’re in awe of the route team and the complexity of what goes into designing each stage and the running of the emergency service’s logistical backup on every day of the event.

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THE WHEEL TURNS FOR The Absa Cape Epic continues to be a pioneer in South African mountain biking, this time by matching the women’s prize money to that of the men. It’s a move sure to attract more of the world’s top women riders to the event and encourage others to take up the sport.

By David Moseley Cramp tore viciously into my calf muscles towards the end of day one on my first mountain bike stage race. It was well into the ride and we’d just reached a compulsory portage on the route that would take us up and over a steep mountain pass. Halfway up and pained by our slow progress, my then-girlfriend (now wife) impatiently bolted to the top with her bike draped over her shoulders, came back for my bike and eventually returned for me, dragging me upwards like a zookeeper pulling a drugged orangutan back into its enclosure. Photographers and fellow competitors looked on in amazement, with some of the wearier souls battling up the slippery climb politely enquiring if she would do the same for them. Dumping me on the ground next to my bike, she looked down at the upcoming singletrack and declared, “Enough rest. Let’s go.”

Early last year, a few days after returning from our honeymoon, my wife and I were participating in another stage race. This time I didn’t need my bike to be carried, but I was cycling a little too slowly for her liking. Pedalling slightly ahead on a long climb, she

THE UNTAMED AFRICAN MTB RACE 26

turned to me and said in her innocent and goofy manner, “I can’t cycle as slowly as you. I’ll just wait for you at the top.” Men around me immediately gasped at her impudence, before starting to snigger at my supposed emasculation. “Hey, bru, you’re getting beat by a chick!” they sneered. “She seems to be going up there a lot quicker than you chaps,” I calmly responded, at which they began to chase her, failing horribly in their pursuit.

That’s the history of women in sport right there. Often as strong or talented as the men (or even stronger and more talented), yet frequently underestimated and sidelined when it comes to media coverage, acceptance, avenues to participation and money. Cycling, though, is making a play to change less-enlightened thinking and practices. Immediately after winning silver at the 2012 London Olympic Games, road cyclist Lizzie Armitstead brought up issues of sexism and lack of recognition in women’s cycling. Another British Olympic cyclist, Emma Pooley, is leading the charge to have a women’s Tour de France established. In December last year she told the Guardian that she had been in touch with Tour organisers Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO) regarding the matter. Pooley told the newspaper, “All I can say is that we are in discussion and ASO are not ruling out a women’s race of some kind.”

Here in South Africa, events such as the Absa Cape Epic are showing their appreciation of women mountain bikers by increasing the women’s overall prize purse, with the help of Sasol, to R690 000, to match that of the men.

WOMEN’S MTB “This announcement by the organisers of the Absa Cape Epic is important for the sport in general, and I hope other race organisers follow suit,” says reigning World Marathon Champion Gunn-Rita Dahle Flesjå. Former South African mountain-biking Olympian, coach and four-time Absa Cape Epic finisher Erica Green concurs with Flesjå’s sentiments: “The Epic has always been a step ahead. Where they lead, others follow.”

Commenting on the increased purse for the women’s field, Green says, “I’ve always believed that if you have big prize money, the numbers will follow.”

Andrea Marcellini, project coordinator at the International Cycling Union and a former Epic participant, also welcomed the decision to bump up the prize money. “South Africa is doing a lot for mountain biking”, she said last November, “and for cycling in general. Equal prize money will help professional women cyclists take on their careers with more serenity. This sort of initiative can only encourage more women to enter the sport. It is excellent news.”

The Absa Cape Epic doesn’t just attract the pros, though, and it’s the event’s broad appeal that’s helping to spread the growth of mountain biking among women. Radio DJ and media personality Liezel van der Westhuizen, following in the cycle tracks of actress-turned-Epic-finisher Vanessa Haywood, has also been lured by the serious and sexy appeal of the world’s premier mountain bike stage race. Actress Hlubi Mboya will also be tackling the race for the first time, in an attempt to inspire

young black South African women to pursue their dreams and overcome their own obstacles.

Van der Westhuizen admits that when she started training for this year’s race, she was surprised by the variety of women who cycle. “I ride with CEOs, poets, musicians and other women from all walks of life. It was so exciting to meet all these different ladies through mountain biking and the Absa Cape Epic.

I honestly never expected it to be like this.” The Absa Cape Epic has clearly provided impetus for more women to saddle up.

“Even if they’re not training for the race,” says Erica Green, “I’ve noticed a number of women taking up the sport because their husbands and partners are training for the race.”

The appeal of the event for Van der Westhuizen has been not only the chance to contribute to a worthy cause (the Diepsloot Mountain Bike Academy), but also to challenge herself. “I wanted to do something different, and mountain biking has always been something I’ve struggled with. Training for this has forced me to push myself, to test myself and to learn more about myself. For instance, I’m very impatient but training for the Epic has taught me to appreciate the process.”

Green also appreciates the process that has been started by the Absa Cape Epic and Sasol. “As a coach and someone with women’s mountain biking’s best interests at heart, I’d like to see more grassroots work being done in the sport. But what they are doing for women’s cycling is incredibly positive. The long-term impact for women, I think, will be wide and far-reaching.”

www.cape-epic.com

27

WHO TO WATCH Riders wearing the leaders’ jerseys lead their category. Stage times are added up, and the team with the fastest accumulated time stands on the middle step of the podium at the end of each day, saluting the crowd. But hidden by the smiles is a gnawing anxiety.

They’ve fought hard for this honour, but will they be able to defend it till Sunday?

The Absa Cape Epic is ranked as HC, or “out of category” by the UCI, so expect flat-out racing in the Men’s and Women’s categories. Olympic medallists and current and former world champions will dice for the biggest prize purse in world mountain biking from the second they leave the start ramp at Meerendal until the moment they reach Lourensford.

UCI points were awarded to the top Women’s teams for the first time in 2012. Now the Women’s prize money has been bolstered, with the help of Sasol Oil, to match the Men’s. This has proved to be a major drawcard for top international and local riders in the most competitive edition to date.

While some of the top contenders in the Mixed category have opted to compete for the Women’s title, this category will be just as hard-fought, with some of the biggest names

THE UNTAMED AFRICAN MTB RACE 28

in cycling competing to wear the green Assos jerseys at Lourensford.

To race for the hotly contested Masters blue jersey, both riders have to turn 40 by 31 December of the race year. Past winners include former world champions, Giro del Capo winners, Tour de France heroes and an Olympic gold medallist.

The Grand Masters category was introduced for the 10th edition in 2013. Those highly competitive men challenging for the Masters leaders’ jerseys in the inaugural Absa Cape Epic in 2004 now have another chance at glory. Both riders must be 50 or older on 31 December in the race year.

There are two special jerseys at the Absa Cape Epic. The Absa African jersey is awarded to the highest-placed team, with both members holding African nationalities, regardless of their entered category. In the past, wearers of this jersey have finished as high as second overall, giving an indication of how tough this competition will be.

The Exxaro MTB Academy made a big statement in 2013, with two teams placing in the top 60 overall. Ever ambitious, now they’re aiming for the top 30. Any South African team of which both members come from a previously disadvantaged background may compete for the Exxaro jersey, regardless of category. Both must be under the age of 26. ›

WHO TO WATCH THE TEAMS EXPECTED TO CONTEND FOR THE PODIUM MEN’S CATEGORY The yellow zebra-striped jersey at the Absa Cape Epic signifies the leading team in the Men’s category. Stage times are added up and the team with the fastest accumulated time at the end of each day gets to wear this iconic jersey for the next day’s stage. The team in yellow after the full eight days of racing will be crowned overall winner of the 2014 Absa Cape Epic. This category showcases the best that competitive mountain biking has to offer, with Olympic medallists, current and former world champions as well as professional cyclists from around the world lining up to take top honours.

MEERENDAL-SONGO-SPECIALIZED

Christoph Sauser is arguably the world’s most decorated mountain bike rider with both marathon and cross-country world titles, an Olympic medal and four Absa Cape Epic titles to his name. 2014’s new partnership

CHRISTOPH SAUSER

FRANTISEK RABON

SWITZERLAND

CZECH REPUBLIC

Age: 37 Epics completed: 8 2008 World Champion 3x World Champion

Age: 30 Epics completed: 0

1-1

1-2 @Frantisekrabon

@Sauserwind

BULLS

Though outgunned by Sauser and Kulhavy at the race, the Swiss/German pair never gave up fighting, right to the end. This says as much about their spirit as it does about their tactics in the race, which is to ride consistently,

wait for the others to make mistakes and then capitalise ruthlessly.

This has earned Platt four victories, and he has made it clear that he has a fifth title in his crosshairs.

KARL PLATT

URS HUBER

GERMANY

SWITZERLAND

Age: 36 Epics completed: 10

Age: 29 Epics completed: 3

2008 National Champion

2-1

@Plattos

2011 National Champion

The pair had a superb 2013 race, taking the yellow zebra-striped jersey after a dramatic win on Stage 1. Though they lost it again the following day after a mechanical at a critical time, they’ve tasted the sweet spoils of the

race lead, and victory on the final day. Both have the firepower to match (and beat) the best in the world, and they ride as friends, so this strong bond could make all the difference when the chips are down.

JOSÉ HERMIDA

RUDI VAN HOUTS

SPAIN

NETHERLANDS

Age: 35 Epics completed: 5 2010 World Champion 3x European Champion

Age: 30 Epics completed: 3 2011 National Champion 2005 U23 European Champion

@Josehermida

THE UNTAMED AFRICAN MTB RACE

2-2

@Huber_urs

MULTIVAN MERIDA

30

with road cyclist Rabon is untested. But the same was said of him and Czech teammate Jaroslav Kulhavy, before dominating the 2013 event. Any duo with Sauser involved is the default favourite team.

3-1

@rudivanhouts

3-2

BULLS 2

Boehme has ridden in six editions, and last year was no doubt a career highlight as he stood on the podium in Lourensford. Young Stiebjahn is now a year older and wiser, with one race under his belt, under the

mentorship of three-time winner Stefan Sahm. That said, the German pair’s primary task is to ride in support of Platt and Huber, should team lead befall any mishaps and require donation of a wheel or part.

TIM BOEHME

SIMON STIEBJAHN

GERMANY

GERMANY

Age: 31 Epics completed: 6

Age: 23 Epics completed: 1

4-1

2012 U23 European Champion

@TeamBulls

@TeamBulls

BMC

Both members of the all-Swiss pair have won stages at the Absa Cape Epic, although riding with different partners. As great friends, their team dynamics will stand them in good stead through the long, hard week. As

the antithesis of the Bulls’ steady, consistent racing style, Naef and Flückiger’s panache ensure they’re always a joy to watch, whether they take spectacular stage wins or crash and burn.

LUKAS FLÜCKIGER

RALPH NAEF

SWITZERLAND

SWITZERLAND

Age: 30 Epics completed: 3

Age: 34 Epics completed: 2

2010 National Champion

5-1

2006 World Champion 2012 World Champion

@LukFluck

5-2

@RalphNaef

SCOTT-ODLO RACING

Schurter is a specialist of the short-course cross-country discipline, where races last 90 minutes. But as world champion, there’s no doubt that his immense physiology and skill will surely carry him to an elusive stage win,

and perhaps even a podium spot overall. Local lad Buys demonstrated he’s up to this monumental task when he duelled to the line at Lourensford with José Hermida and Rudi van Houts.

PHILIP BUYS SOUTH AFRICA

Age: 27 Epics completed: 2 3x World Champion 2012 Olympic Gold Medallist

Age: 24 Epics completed: 4 2013 National Champion

6-1

@Nschurter

MEN

NINO SCHURTER SWITZERLAND

6-2

@PhilBuys

CENTURION-VAUDE

In 2014, Kaufmann hopes to make up for last year’s short-lived partnership with Thomas Stoll. This year he’s teamed up with veteran stage racer and fellow Amabubesi member Jochen Kaess, who’s best showing at the Absa

Cape Epic is second overall in 2011, including a stage win. Barring incident, these two will certainly be at the front of affairs throughout the week, aiming squarely at the podium.

MARKUS KAUFMANN

JOCHEN KAESS

GERMANY

GERMANY

Age: 32 Epics completed: 3

Age: 32 Epics completed: 3

2012 National Champion

4-2

7-1

2010 National Champion

7-2

@BikeBrazzo

www.cape-epic.com 31

SASOL WOMEN’S CATEGORY Now in its third year as a UCI points-winning category, the Women’s category will boast equal prize money to the Men’s. Sasol Oil has come on board to sponsor this incredible prize purse and the Sasol Women’s leader jersey. The bright orange jersey has previously been contested by world champions and Olympians alike, and the competition in this category is growing year on year.

MEERENDAL

Süss’s credentials are unmatched when looking down the list of favourites for this year’s title, with multiple marathon world championships, a podium spot at the 2013 cross-country World Championships and an Absa Cape Epic title.

ESTHER SÜSS

SALLY BIGHAM

SWITZERLAND

ENGLAND

Age: 40 Epics completed: 4

Age: 37 Epics completed: 3

2010 World Champion 2x European Champion

50-1

@WheelerWind

4x National Champion

Kleinhans has foregone her winning Mixed category partnership (with her husband Erik), looking to new challenges, with equal prize money and UCI points raising the stakes in the Women’s race. Although her partner

Langvad is a newbie, the two-time marathon world champion, Danish cross-country and time trial champion will be a good match. But will it be good enough to stop Süss and Bigham?

ARIANE KLEINHANS

ANNIKA LANGVAD

SWITZERLAND

DENMARK

Age: 30 Epics completed: 3

Age: 30 Epics completed: 0

2013 National Champion

51-1

@ArianeKleinhans

2x World Champion 5x National Champion

In a team that combines experience with youth, it’s hard to find a partnership with more extreme examples of the two. Booyens has completed six Absa Cape Epics, in contrast to Strauss’s newbie status.

But when it comes to raw speed, there’s no doubting Strauss’s pedigree as South African Under 23 cross-country champion. The question is, though, how will she fare over eight days of hard racing?

HANLIE BOOYENS

MARISKE STRAUSS

SOUTH AFRICA

SOUTH AFRICA

Age: 40 Epics completed: 6

Age: 22 Epics completed: 0 2013 National Champion

52-1

THE UNTAMED AFRICAN MTB RACE

51-2

@Annikalangvad

PRAGMA’S ORANGE MONKEYS

@Hanliebooyens

50-2

@IronSally1

RECM

32

She’ll be back to make amends after a stomach ailment scuppered her 2013 race. Bigham, too, knows her way around a mountain bike – she holds two Absa Cape Epic titles and is a former British marathon champion.

@Straussmariske

52-2

TECH/BTT LOULÉ/BPI

Slegrova started her cycling career young, competing in Czech crosscountry races as a junior. Now a local, she coaches and races in Cape Town and has won the Garden Route 300 in the Mixed category. One would rate

Carpinteiro as the stronger of the two, as a former Portuguese marathon and road champion and with other stage race victories to her name, so she’s likely to take on the shepherd’s role.

CELINA CARPINTEIRO

KATE SLEGROVA

PORTUGAL

CZECH REPUBLIC

Age: 33 Epics completed: 2

Age: 31 Epics completed: 1

2012 National Champion

53-1

SASOL RACING DIVAS

Stopforth is a veteran stage race campaigner, and de Villiers a former winner of the race in both the Women’s and Mixed categories. With impressive results on the local scene, they have a good shot at a podium

53-2

slot in Lourensford. But with the most stellar field of women ever assembled at the Absa Cape Epic, they have some big rivals to beat.

But anything can happen at the Absa Cape Epic.

YOLANDE DE VILLIERS

ISCHEN STOPFORTH

SOUTH AFRICA

SOUTH AFRICA

Age: 37 Epics completed: 7

Age: 38 Epics completed: 5

54-1 @YolandeDV7

54-2 @Ischenstopforth

SASOL RACING

Although she’s completed one Epic already, Stenerhag’s best results have been on the road, having won the 2009 Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour.

She finished alone in the 2013 race, losing her partner, so she’ll have some-

thing to prove this year. She’s no stranger to the podium at stage races, and in the 2013 South African Marathon Championships, Du Toit finished a creditable forth, showing that her form is on target for a good result.

JENNIE STENERHAG

YOLANDI DU TOIT

SWEDEN

SOUTH AFRICA

Age: 41 Epics completed: 1 2013 National Champion

Age: 28 Epics completed: 1

55-1

@JennieStenerhag

55-2 @Yolandi_duToit

MEERENDAL-SONGO-SPECIALIZED

Landtwing was crowned Swiss marathon champion in 2011 and she won the Transalp the following year. Tipped for the podium in 2013, she retired from the race, but she has proved she’s worthy of “dark horse” status, with a

second place in the Mixed category in 2012. Epic newbie Elferink has finished 4th in the Dutch cross-country championships and second in the marathon race. Expect these two to be in the mix.

MILENA LANDTWING

HIELKE ELFERINK

SWITZERLAND

NETHERLANDS

Age: 33 Epics completed: 1 2011 National Champion

Age: 27 Epics completed: 0

@MilenaLandtwing

56-1

2013 National Champion

56-2

@HielkeElferink

www.cape-epic.com 33

MIXED CATEGORY The man/woman combination adds a different dynamic to racing the Absa Cape Epic, given their basic physiological differences. As is often the case, the partnership is likely not to be as evenly matched as in other categories. The partners in the dark green jerseys must judge one another’s efforts through good communication and by accurately reading body language, to ensure they finish strong each day and ready for the trials that still lie in wait.

ASRIN CYCLING

Property mogul Essa has completed two Epics, with a dramatic improvement in 2013. Combined with Williamson’s know-how, they’ll surely see the podium in the evenings’ proceedings.

Yorkshire native Williamson is famously tough. Yet she’s also displayed the nurture and empathy required for a successful partnership on the final stage in 2013 when she nursed a broken Yolande Speedy home to victory.

NIZAAM ESSA

CATHERINE WILLIAMSON

SOUTH AFRICA

ENGLAND

Age: 33 Epics completed: 2

Age: 32 Epics completed: 3

@NESSATAZZ1

59-1

RECM

As one of South Africa’s best road cyclists ever and former marathon national champion, Stander has the engine to take her to victory in any event involving a bicycle; while Blignaut is an elite-level triathlete, who’s

@CATHWILLIAMSON

shown his prowess on a mountain bike with a win at the ITU South African Cross Triathlon Championships. They’re clearly the favourites, but will the other teams’ experience overcome the firepower of youth?

CHERISE STANDER

THEO BLIGNAUT

SOUTH AFRICA

SOUTH AFRICA

Age: 24 Epics completed: 1

Age: 25 Epics completed: 0

@TAYLORCHICK1

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SPORTOGRAF.COM–WHEELER IXS

Janas began mountain biking in 1997. He is a top-60 finisher at the Absa Cape Epic and has completed the Race Across America. The 34-year-old German rides with his girlfriend, who was a highly competitive XTerra

@THEOBLIGNAUT

BETTINA UHLIG

GERMANY

GERMANY

Age: 34 Epics completed: 1

Age: 26 Epics completed: 0

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MASTERS CATEGORY The race for the blue Masters jersey will again be one of the most hotly contended categories outside the yellow zebra jersey, with many a frantic finish-line sprint taking place in previous years. Teams in this category comprise competitors who are both between the ages of 40 and 49 years. Look out for the former world champions, Tour de France riders and Giro del Capo winners battling it out for bragging rights.

THE UNTAMED AFRICAN MTB RACE 34

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athlete before a crash ended her triathlon career. She’s since won the German student national championships, Cape Pioneer Trek overall in the solo category and a stage at TransAlp in the mixed category.

TOM JANAS

@SPORTOGRAF_TOM

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MEERENDAL SUPERIOR BRENTJENS

The former world and Olympic cross-country champion has completed eight Absa Cape Epics, but has never ridden with the same partner twice. This speaks volumes of this unstoppable legend’s win-at-all-cost

approach to racing. Known as ‘the partner killer’, he’ll need to look after Azevedo, who won in 2013, riding with the contrastingly altruistic Nico Pfitzenmaier. It’ll be either victory or crash and burn.

BART BRENTJENS

ABRAAO AZEVEDO

NETHERLANDS

BRAZIL

Age: 45 Epics completed: 8 1996 Olympic Gold Medallist 1995 XCO World Champion

Age: 44 Epics completed: 1

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@AZEVEDOABE

@BARTMNBRENTJENS

PFALZ

Boelts and Bresser had a firm grip on the 2013 race in the early stages, but they took a wrong turn on Stage 3, leading to their disqualification.

Previous Masters category winner Boelts is back, and he’s brought along

triathlon legend Lothar Leder, who has nine Ironman titles to his name.

He could hardly have found a better replacement for Bresser in the hunt for victory. Only Brentjens and Azevedo are likely to stop them.

UDO BOELTS

LOTHAR LEDER

GERMANY

GERMANY

Age: 47 Epics completed: 5

Age: 43 Epics completed: 0

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DEFINITIVE BIKES

Shan Wilson is one of the very few South Africans to have won stages at the Absa Cape Epic in the Men’s category. Though he’s prone to self-harm, riding so close to the edge, he’s still got the killer instinct that’ll carry him

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though hardship. The even temperament of Enthoven is the perfect compliment to Wilson, and although it’s a new partnership at the Absa Cape Epic, they’ve raced alongside each other for over a decade.

SHAN WILSON

ADRIAN ENTHOVEN

SOUTH AFRICA

SOUTH AFRICA

Age: 46 Epics completed: 10

Age: 44 Epics completed: 4

@SHANGWILSON

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@ADIENTHOVEN

GRAND MASTERS CATEGORY The distinctive purple jerseys will designate the leading team in this category. With the Absa Cape Epic growing as a race and repeated participation, the need for a Grand Masters category arose and was introduced at the 2013 event. To compete in this category, both team members must be over 50 years of age – this is where experience trumps age.

MEERENDAL-SONGO-SPECIALIZED

Bucher has tasted victory before while partnered with Doug Brown in the Masters section. As far as team dynamics go, this is as good as it gets.

With a proven track record and decades of experience, this is undoubtedly

the team to watch in 2014. Their biggest challenge will come from Bucher’s 2013 partner Zoerweg, who’s teamed up with McLean – they’ll be keeping a close watch on the Cycle Lab Toyota jerseys.

BÄRTI BUCHER

DOUG BROWN

SWITZERLAND

SOUTH AFRICA

Age: 52 Epics completed: 5

Age: 52 Epics completed: 6

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www.cape-epic.com 35

CYCLE LAB TOYOTA

McLean is back! After a few noncompetitive years, he’s teamed up with the 2013 Grand Masters category winner – a sure sign that the fire still burns in the belly of the South African cycling legend. Zoerweg finished

in 26th place overall last year – an astounding achievement considering he beat many elite riders twice his age. Expect a tooth-and-nail battle between them and Meerendal-Songo-Specialized.

ANDREW MCLEAN

HEINZ ZOERWEG

SOUTH AFRICA

AUSTRIA

Age: 49 Epics completed: 5

Age: 51 Epics completed: 1

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EBEN

The podium in the Grand Masters category is certain to be occupied by the three teams listed here. Dr Corrie Muller practises as a dentist in Stellenbosch, so this is his backyard. He and Espach may not have the list of

victories of Bucher, Brown, McLean or Zoerweg; but with their off-road abilities, there’s every chance that they could win a stage, and stand among the best in the world on the podium at Lourensford.

EBENHAEZER ESPACH

CORRIE MULLER

SOUTH AFRICA

SOUTH AFRICA

Age: 53 Epics completed: 1

Age: 49 Epics completed: 5

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ABSA AFRICAN JERSEY The new-look red Absa African jersey is awarded to the highest-placed team where both members hold passports from an African country, regardless of their category. With the sport of mountain biking growing rapidly on the African continent, the number of teams contending for this special jersey is ever increasing. Overall winners of this category are awarded the Burry Stander Memorial Trophy for their year as champions.

CANNONDALE BLEND

In 2013, these two were matching the top riders in the world, pedal stroke for pedal stroke, at the front of the field. They were the worthy wearers of the red Absa African leader jerseys, until Lill was struck by stomach

DARREN LILL

CHARLES KEEY

SOUTH AFRICA

SOUTH AFRICA

Age: 31 Epics completed: 1

Age: 27 Epics completed: 4

@DARRENLILL

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RECM

If you believe the adage that success breeds success, then you’d pick the Kleinhans/Bell duo as prime candidates to challenge Lill and Keey.

Beneath Kleinhans’ shock of red hair lies a cool head – the former

@CHARLESKEEY

NICO BELL

SOUTH AFRICA

SOUTH AFRICA

Age: 31 Epics completed: 6

Age: 30 Epics completed: 4

@KLEINHANSMUESLI

THE UNTAMED AFRICAN MTB RACE

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South African cross-country champion has won in the Mixed category twice, with his wife Ariane. Now he rides with Bell, who finished a creditable eighth in 2012.

ERIK KLEINHANS

2009 National Champion

36

trouble. Keey has been ranked among the top marathon riders in the world, and Lill is a former South African road champion. These Absa African favourites are overall contenders too.

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SCOTT

Although untried at this level of competition, this partnership shows huge potential. With Beukes mixing it up at the very sharp end of the field in 2013, he’ll be mentoring the younger rider in what Heyns hopes will be a break-

through year. Heyns isn’t lacking in skills. He won a local enduro gravity event a year ago – on a hardtail. That will stand him in good stead when he’s racing some of the most technically proficient athletes in the world.

MATTHYS BEUKES

GERT HEYNS

SOUTH AFRICA

SOUTH AFRICA

Age: 26 Epics completed: 1

Age: 20 Epics completed: 0

@MATTHYSBEUKES

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@GERTHEYNS

EXXARO JERSEY The Exxaro jersey is awarded to the top historically disadvantaged South African team where both riders are under the age of 26. The Exxaro Development Academy was created with the specific intention of increasing access to the sport for previously disadvantaged South Africans, and has facilitated the inclusion of more competitors for this jersey. The overall winners of this category will be sent to compete in the TransAlp.

EXXARO – PWC

Barely 20 years old, Sebona took the green Exxaro development jersey with Prince Maseko in 2013, finishing 47th overall. This year the Exxaro MTB Academy coaches have split them up to form two strong teams.

These are the two top riders in the programme. Firm friends from when they raced together on the road six years ago, their team dynamic is sure to lead them to even greater things.

JAN MOTSHIOA

PHILLIMON SEBONA

SOUTH AFRICA

SOUTH AFRICA

Age: 22 Epics completed: 2

Age: 21 Epics completed: 2

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EXXARO – DEUTSCHE BANK

Fatyi has tasted competition at its highest level, riding in the 2013 UCI Cross-Country World Championships in Pietermaritzburg. At age 25, he is a mentor to Mtalana, who’s still in school), although they are both Epic

rookies. Living in Port Elizabeth, they had virtually no support until they joined the programme, but after witnessing their talent and discipline honed from hardship, the coaches have pitched them as a top-tier team.

LUTHANDO FATYI

ANELE MTALANA

SOUTH AFRICA

SOUTH AFRICA

Age: 25 Epics completed: 0

Age: 19 Epics completed: 0

@LUTHANDOFATYI

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EXXARO – RMB

Maseko was the other winning half of the Exxaro development-jerseywinning team last year. He knows all about overcoming hardship – in his first attempt at the Epic in 2011, he crashed in the Prologue and broke his wrist.

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@PHILLIOMSEBONA

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As a “power rider”, he complements Mahlangu, and both aggressively attack the course like cross-country riders. They’re skilled and well-versed in race tactics – Motshioa and Sebona will be watching these two closely.

PRINCE MASEKO

THOKOZANI MAHLANGU

SOUTH AFRICA

SOUTH AFRICA

Age: 21 Epics completed: 1

Age: 23 Epics completed: 2

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www.cape-epic.com 37

SHARP SHOOTER If you’ve watched an Absa Cape Epic TV insert, then you’ve seen the work of Mark le Roux and his crew at Bigshot Media.

Meet the guy every race organiser wants documenting their event. By Jazz Kuschke “Those 26-minute episodes…” remarks Mark le Roux of the Absa Cape Epic’s daily shows during the race. “To get them done every night and out to 180 countries is huge pressure!”

“The Epic pretty much made Bigshot, though – the critical moments, you know? Those iconic race happenings people remember, that leading mixed team that crashed and broke their collarbones, Burry riding into the hole, the crucial breakaways… I think we’ve captured them all.”

It wouldn’t be difficult to class this as a self-punt for the guy behind the lens, who so very rarely gets enough recognition.

But Le Roux is as far from egotistical as Hollywood Boulevard is from the Lourensford finish straight of the Absa Cape Epic.

He’s grateful. Relieved even. In a world of social media selfpromotion, where the documentary-makers often demand as much attention as the athletes, it’s uncommon and refreshing.

Unlike most lensmen and producers of his generation, Le Roux is largely self-taught. He developed an interest in moving pictures in the army, where he had to do video and infrared surveillance as part of an intelligence unit. When he came home from conscription, he got a rigging job at Atkinson TV in Cape

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Town. “My girlfriend at the time’s sister’s husband ran Atkinson.

It was the only production house in Cape Town outside of the SABC,” he says, recounting not so fondly how he built sets and stages and set up big speaker systems for music videos.

“I couldn’t get into production, because you needed a qualification. So in the evenings I’d sit with the video guys and editors, and watch and learn. When they were done I’d jump on the old tape-editing suites.”

Within a year, Le Roux’s skills were up to the standard of the top editors at Atkinson TV. At the same time he polished his shooting prowess. “They were doing quite a lot of music videos and stuff, so it was creative – cutting-edge stuff for the time,” he says.

Le Roux soon outgrew Atkinson and took a corporate job at Old Mutual. “Yes, believe it or not, but I worked for a boss for four or five years,” he laughs, explaining how he took over the black-and-white training set-up and turned it into a fully fledged broadcasting facility. “We could broadcast from the Old Mutual head office in Pinelands to all the branches around the country via satellite.” For one corporate broadcast he had to document the Old Mutual-sponsored Meiringspoort Half Marathon.

The race, where Le Roux would also shoot from the back of a motorbike for the first time, was essentially the opening sequence for what would grow into Old Mutual’s World of Endurance TV series. Nothing like it existed at the time, and success was instant and lasting. “Twenty-six minutes a week for

Bigshot Media employs five editors, but six years ago Le Roux started the company with his fresh-out-of-school sons, Dave and Doug. “They’re so skilled and marketable right now, they could probably walk into anything,” he beams, striding into one of the editing suites where, amid a din of office renovation, Doug is busy cutting one of the retrospective Absa Cape Epic clips that SuperCycling has been

10 years,” he sighs. “It was intense,” he adds, reflecting on the globetrotting travel schedule for covering endurance events.

“My kids basically didn’t see me for a decade. It was hectic, but that’s where I cut my teeth in the sports production world.”

World of Endurance was the most popular show on South African TV for much of that 10-year period, with the soapie Loving the only show coming close in ratings. But the family sacrifices for such success became too much for Le Roux, and the decision was made to cancel the show.

“It was a pretty big shake-up and there were some major exit strategies played out,” recalls Le Roux, highlighting how much of South Africa’s endurance industry relied on the show for sponsors’ coverage. “From that I realised just how much of a need there really was.”

Many of the clients he worked with back then still use the services of Bigshot Media – it’s testament to the relationships he’s built and the quality of the productions he’s delivered over the years. And, as if that wasn’t enough of a credit, many of the camera operators he learnt from at Atkinson TV, now shoot for him freelance.

The combination of being able to shoot and edit, which Le Roux developed during his time at Atkinson and Old Mutual, is the foundation on which he’s built Bigshot. “Otherwise there’s no context or feeling for the style of end product needed.

That’s where I see things go wrong in the industry – guys go shoot, and then they leave it to someone else to edit.”

broadcasting in honour of the 10-year anniversary of the event.

“We’ve got the Epic down to a fine art now,” says Le Roux.

“I do all the helicopter work and then I direct the show.

So when I come in with the helicopter, I know exactly what Dave on the lead bike would have got, because I saw from above. I then go into the truck, where we’ve got a big whiteboard, and I draw a timeline, and then Doug and I discuss where to feature what. He uses my helicopter footage as the skeleton to stitch all the ground shots onto.”

What makes these productions so difficult to put together is that they’re not dealing with live footage as you would in another sporting event. “We have to wait for the guys to come in with the motorbikes before we can see what they’ve got.”

There’s much more to getting good footage off the back of a motorbike than just pointing the camera and getting the riders in focus. “It’s about building a rapport with the riders and not getting in their faces.” After so many years of threading jeep track with the country’s top mountain bikers, Le Roux and his crew know which teams they can get close to at which times and who to stay away from when it turns into a long day.

During the 2012 Absa Cape Epic, Bigshot moved on to daily high-definition edits for the first time. “It was so tense. We were working with these massive files,” Le Roux recalls. “Luckily, it went smoothly.”

The move to HD is hardly the first big technological evolution Le Roux has worked through. He remembers the early days, tape-based Betacams and how much of a pain recuts and the like were in the predigital era.

“Cameras have got smaller and smaller, and even on things like the Epic we now use the small ENG [electronic newsgathering] rigs – really small HD rigs that are very powerful – and guys can be on the back of two-wheeler motorbikes and the like.”

Digital technology has definitely made it easier for people to enter the market and create flashy, fancy effects. But, he says, the end product still needs to be of top professional quality. “If something we’ve shot on a DSLR, from an octocopter or cable cam isn’t good enough, we won’t use it,” he says.

“Novel is cool, but it still needs to be a proper shot.” He quickly adds that with the new developments in stability, the remote Wi-Fi controls and satellite-tracking technology available are going to take GoPro aerial footage to the next level.

And the next level is ultimately were he wants to take Bigshot, too. “We often get told our stuff looks like the Dakar production, and that means a lot. But the Tour de France, shooting with, like, four or five choppers, that’s where we want to go to. Epic’s got live TV now, so…”

This profile was first published in the April 2013 edition of Ride magazine.

www.cape-epic.com 39

2013 BY THE NUMBERS EPIC NUMBERS*

35%

46%

*based on information obtained post the 2013 race

40

www.cape-epic.com

41

While both riders’ performances have kept us enthralled over the years, somehow Platt’s victories have been more exciting; like his win in 2007 when riding with Stefan Sahm, dicing Roel Paulissen and Jakob Fuglsang to the line after Sahm smashed a pedal; dislocating his shoulder in 2009 and still taking the stage in Greyton; and breaking a chain that same year and repairing it in under a minute. It seems Platt is the master of damage control.

When Sauser wins, he does so convincingly, but when his team falters, it’s catastrophic.

Sauser has won the last three editions of the Absa Cape Epic, and with his list of accomplishments, the smart money is on the Swiss rider.

But that would be overlooking one critical point – the Absa Cape Epic is a two-man team race, and Sauser’s 2013 racewinning teammate Jaroslav Kulhavy has opted out. Last year they were unstoppable. Platt recalls, “Kulhavy was really something! He was an absolute machine on the flat sections

CLASH OF THE TITANS Level at four victories each, Karl Platt and Christoph Sauser are both hoping for a fifth.

Which of the two will make history?

By Neil Gardiner The two couldn’t be more different. In person, Platt is affable and gregarious, Sauser guarded and measured. In interviews, Platt appears happy-go-lucky, whereas Sauser fires off his answers precisely and economically. On the bike, Platt muscles up the trails, while the Swiss Sauser engine purrs along.

Sauser is arguably the most decorated mountain bike rider in the world, with several world championships, UCI World Cup overall titles and an Olympic medal to his name. Platt’s single National Marathon Championship win pales in comparison, yet his stage race record is unsurpassed, with multiple victories at TransAlp and wins at Trans Germany, Trans Rockies and Trans Schwarzwald. What they do have in common, though, is that they each have more wins at the Absa Cape Epic than any other rider, in any category.

It’s remarkable that the same two riders who lined up together at the start in 2005 are fighting for an elusive fifth win in 2014.

Platt’s record is a picture of consistency, finishing all 10 editions and appearing on the podium eight times. Sauser, whose career was forged on short-course cross-country lap races, says, “He might not have the level of the very best riders, otherwise he would have won more stages, but he can keep a very high level from the first to the last day during the Absa Cape Epic. That makes him a very strong and consistent all-rounder.”

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– he’s the Olympic champ! It’ll be hard for Susi to find a replacement like him.”

Former professional road cyclist František Raboň has been picked by Sauser to join him on the start line at Meerendal Wine Estate on Sunday, 23 March. Sauser isn’t at all concerned about this new union. “It is not that important to have an untested partner. We have to be on the same top level on the day,” says Sauser. “Remember that it’s Team Bulls and not just Karl. As we all know, team racing creates special dynamics. It’s only the weaker rider that counts! And teams Ergon-Topeak, BMC and Multivan-Merida – these are a few other very strong competitors.”

Platt is paired with Urs Huber, a tried-and-tested combination, and this could make all the difference when the chips are down.

One could not help sense the disappointment at their 2013 Absa Cape Epic second place, though. Platt intimates, “I was tired last year – I think my off-season break was too short and that put me way over the limit. But last year I stopped my season early, in August, and I am well recovered now.” Sauser is well aware of the role of recuperation: “It is all about how fit and recovered you are going into this race. We will try to maximise our strength with training, equipment and determination, and to minimise the need for luck with good planning.”

In the ebb and flow of form, luck and circumstance at the Absa Cape Epic, with the brutal punishment that’s doled out on the body, the rugged terrain and the nuances of fiercely competitive mountain bike racing, there’s one thing for certain: it’ll be a titanic battle between these two powerhouses. “The Epic is special,” concludes Platt knowingly.

VS

www.cape-epic.com 43

EVENT HISTORY It was 2am on 13 April 2005. Race founder Kevin Vermaak was lying flat on his back on the floor of his office, alone.

The event was beginning to show its true potential and was attracting some of the big stars in the sport. It had captured the imagination of the world’s mountain-biking community and a growing number of fans. But that night, despite having two Cape Epics under his belt, Vermaak considered it a failure.

He gazed into an abyss of debt and considered his rapidly diminishing options. His mind wandered back to his wellestablished life in London, three years earlier. Working as a project manager for a prominent bank, he’d been earning more than just a comfortable living, and travelling extensively.

He thought of the beach in Costa Rica, where, in the days preparing to embark on La Ruta de los Conquistadores race, he had imagined a similar mountain bike stage race on African soil, but longer, faster and better. Those happy memories faded as the office walls pressed in on him.

He remembered the tiny booth he’d hired at the 2003 Argus expo and approaching riders about his planned Epic journey from Knysna to Cape Town. He thought back to the hour the race registration opened and to sitting up after midnight and watching the numbers tick over as the entries came in.

The inaugural 250 two-man team slots sold out in three days. But despite this initial success, Kevin now owed millions.

He recalled the moments of uncertainty and self-doubt: would he and his small team be able to pull it off? Did 500 identical tents even exist in South Africa? However, after the start gun fired, his insecurities were put to rest. ‘This race is actually happening!’ he thought. But on that dark night in April, he wasn’t so sure anymore.

Kevin was alone and unable to offload. He simply couldn’t risk telling anyone he was using income from the following year’s race to repay the previous one. If the riders had found out, it’s doubtful they’d have paid entry fees nine months in advance. If prospective employees had seen the full, ugly picture, they’d have taken jobs elsewhere. On that night of

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The Cape Epic name, logo and ethos were finalised in London and Munich in 2003.

“The knobbly tyres of the cyclist show that it is an off-road mountain bike race.

The zebra stripes represent Untamed Africa. The colours of South Africa’s flag denote that it will be a truly South African race.”

turmoil, Kevin felt he’d hit rock bottom. He arose the next morning with renewed motivation. He turned to the Industrial Development Corporation, South Africa’s national financial institution which helps fund fledgling businesses. The Cape Epic became the first-ever sports event to partner with this economic development agency. With the new cash injection, he’d dodged the bullet and could now face event suppliers and his staff.

In addition, Kevin had been courting Absa to fill the vacant title-sponsorship place. In between arranging the logistics of a 1 200-rider, 800km mountain bike race, he’d served almost enough time in Absa’s boardrooms, PowerPointing and persuading, to qualify as a part-time employee. Just five weeks before the 2006 event, the bank came on board as the main title sponsor. That day, Kevin went to a hotel bar near the Epic offices in Loop Street, Cape Town, to raise a toast with Operations Manager Richard McMartin. Once they’d drained their glasses, it was back to work.

As riders pedalled out of Knysna at the start of the newly christened Absa Cape Epic, Kevin headed down the road in his mobile home and slipped a Faithless CD into the deck.

It was his personal tradition to play the track “Insomnia”, a favourite from his London days. That year he turned it a click or two louder.

LIVE, WORK, PLAY IN THE CLOUD. RSAWEB - Cloud Hosting & Fibre Connectivity Partner to the Absa Cape Epic.

www.rsaweb.co.za

EVENT HISTORY From inception, the race has attracted top international athletes. Stage race specialist Karl Platt from Germany won the inaugural event, riding with top-ranked marathon rider Mannie Heymans from Namibia. South African and international riders vowed to return, not only to soak up the experience of cycling in such beautiful terrain, but also to settle scores with their rivals. Today, no other event attracts as many current and former world champions.

Interest grew even more when the UCI awarded the Epic HC status in 2006, the same level as the Tour de France, the Giro d’Italia and the Vuelta a España.

Pro mountain bike racers could now earn qualifying points for the Olympic Games. Mountain biking had attained new standards of race organisation professionalism, and there was a growing television audience. Demand for race entries exceeded available slots by five to one.

The event’s next milestone was to have its highlights broadcast every day on television. Growing TV coverage meant a wider audience and increased value for sponsors.

In 2007, a 26-minute summary of the day’s action started being broadcast nightly around the world. By 2008, the Absa Cape Epic had become a slick and popular event, enjoying good media growth and attracting a high-quality field. The course saw pros fight tooth and nail. Jakob Fuglsang, a young Danish rider, caught the attention of professional road team CSC, and within a few years he was competing in the Tour de France and wearing the leader’s jersey at the Vuelta a España. Everyone wanted to race the Epic, no matter how hard or long it became.

But Kevin noticed that the event was fast approaching its second watershed. The previous year, 80% of the riders stated in a survey that they’d be back for more; by 2008 that figure had dropped alarmingly. With the race starting in Knysna, route designers were running out of good trail options. Mountain-bike legend Tom Ritchey intimated that

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slogging for hours on open dirt roads each year was not worth the trip from northern California. Kevin was also keen to take the Absa Cape Epic to a wider range of locations and discover new routes. In addition, many race villages were too small to host the ever-growing event. Exploring new town and route options meant the race would get longer, and excessively long stage distances were already the loudest grumble from rider feedback surveys.

Riders at the inaugural Cape Epic – Knysna to Cape Town – in 2004.

The first-ever leader jersey, won

by Karl Platt and Mannie Heymans.

The original Amabubesi Club logo. The club recognised three-time finishers of the race.

1301172_FP_E

1200 dirty riders.

And the water used to clean them.

We saved as much as 75% of water used by riders in the ShowerZone during the Absa Cape Epic, simply by fitting our EcoSmart showerheads.

Now, riders enjoy a soothing shower experience without wasting any water.

For product information, visit www.hansgrohe.co.za or contact 021 447 7144. Follow the team on Twitter @TeamHansgroheSA and www.TeamHansgroheSA.co.za.

EVENT HISTORY Kevin knew then that the format required revamping. Sparked by an idea from Race Doctor Basil Bonner at a 2008 crew workshop, a unanimous decision was taken to forgo the odyssey format in favour of multiple days in each location. There was an outcry. Some riders claimed the romance of an epic journey might be compromised.

But, despite a 50% fee hike for the 2010 race, entries sold out within 24 hours of the end of the 2009 event. Kevin put this down to the success of the new format.

The new cloverleaf route – featuring two-night stays in each race village, far more technical singletrack and much more

THE UNTAMED AFRICAN MTB RACE 48

“real mountain biking” – had taken a convincing argument to the critics.

The Absa Cape Epic is a pioneer among mountain-bike races. The hard-learnt lessons have been noted and addressed, making it a world-class sporting event. In the race’s current phase of stability and maturity, Kevin and his team can look back at the Epic’s history for inspiration as they craft its future.

The marketing drive for the 2004 Cape Epic was a roaring success. The promotional stand at the Argus expo in Cape Town brought in more than 1 000 entries.

ROLL OF HONOUR In 10 years, the Absa Cape Epic has seen 11 overall winners in the elite Men’s category and 17 in the Women’s race. We’ve seen world champions and Olympic medallists standing on top of the podium, as well as riders who have performed at the highest level in Grand Tours on the road. A decade of the Absa Cape Epic has produced close finishes and dominant victories, together with an impressive list of stats. Here are some facts and figures generated by the chief animators at the world’s premier mountain bike stage race.

Biggest winning margin (Women): Team Duravit with Anke Erlank (now Moore) and Yolande de Villiers with a 04:20:52 advantage

Most stage wins: Christoph Sauser – 30

Smallest winning margin (Women): 30:12 minutes was the 2010 winning margin between sisters Kristine and AnnaSofie Noergaard and the second-placed Hannele Steyn and Ivonne Kraft.

Most stage wins in 2013: Barti Bucher and Heinz Zoerweg (all eight stages), Songo.info, Grand Masters (26th in GC)

Smallest winning margin (Men): In 2007 Karl Platt and Stefan Sahm of Team Bulls edged in just 3:23 minutes ahead of the Cannondale-Vredestein 1 riders, Roel Paulissen and Jakob Fuglsang.

Most stage wins in a single year: Besides the above – in 2009, Absa Ladies with Sharon Laws and Hanlie Booyens won all eight stages. In 2008, Joybike with Ivonne Kraft and Nico Pfitzenmaier won eight of the nine stages in the Mixed category. In 2007, Duravit with Anke Erlank (now Moore) and Yolande de Villiers in the Women’s category won all eight stages. In 2006, Absa Business Banking Services with Linus van Onselen and Geddan Ruddock won all eight stages in the Masters category.

Most overall wins in multiple categories: Barti Bucher

Most stage wins by the same team: Christoph Sauser and Burry Stander (23 stages)

Oldest winner in Men’s category: Christoph Sauser (36 in 2013)

Fastest sibling partnerships: Noergaard’s (Women) in 2010, with and average speed of 19,3km/h; Fluckiger’s (Men) in 2011, with an average speed of 24,6km/h Fastest married team: Erik and Ariane Kleinhans of RECM in 2013, with an average speed of 20km/h

Oldest winner in Women’s category: Alison Sydor (42 in 2008) Fastest average speed on a stage: 2008 – Prologue: 34km/h; Stage 3: 32km/h

Youngest winner in Men’s category: Jakob Fuglsang (23 in 2008)

Fastest average speed on a stage for 2013: Stage 4: 26,5km/h Slowest average speed by stage winner (Men): 22km/h on Stage 2 in 2010 Biggest winning margin (Men): Christoph Sauser and Silvio Bundi from Team Specialized with 29:08 minutes over Johannes Sickmueller and Christian Heule from Team Stevens Racing

Youngest winner in Women’s category: Karien van Jaarsveld (29 in 2011) Most times the leader jersey changed hands: In 2007, the yellow zebra-striped leader jersey changed hands four times, between Karl Platt and Stefan Sahm of Team Bulls and Roel Paulissen and Jakob Fuglsang of Cannondale-Vredestein. Bulls won.

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2004 Mannie Heymans aka Mr African won the inaugural event with Karl Platt.

10 YEARS OF FINISHES

THE UNTAMED AFRICAN MTB RACE 50

2005 Olympic gold medalilist Bart Brentjens leads Roel Paulissen to a 26-minute win over Sauser and Kessiakoff.

2006 Christoph Sauser wins his first of many, and Silvio Bundi his first and only title.

2007 The first victory for the Epic’s most successful pairing, Karl Platt and Stefan Sahm.

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2008 Roel Paulissen returns with future Tour de France contender Jakob Fuglsang to beat Platt and Sahm by just nine minutes.

2009 A second win for Platt and Sahm, this time by only five minutes from Brentjens and Chris Jongewaard, with Emil Lundgren and Andreas Kugler coming third.

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2010 The Platt and Sahm show continues‌ with a 10-minute win over Sauser and rising star Stander.

2011 Banishing years of disappointment, Burry Stander and Christoph Sauser finally win the Absa Cape Epic. Burry was the first South African winner.

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2012 A repeat win for Stander and Sauser – and the last time we would see Burry at the Epic.

2013 Sauser partnered with Jaroslav Kulhavy, just two months after Burry’s death, for an emotional win in Burry’s honour.

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from stArt to finish

35350

*

good food mAkes the differenCe

www.woolworths.co.za

proud sponsor of the 2014 ABsA CApe epiC *Estimated energy expenditure of an average 70kg male cyclist, riding 6 hours per day.

PROVIDED BY GREEN CATERING AND WOOLWORTHS, THE FOLLOWING AMOUNT OF FOOD WAS CONSUMED BY RIDERS IN 2013:

FUEL UP Woolworths, which has been the official food sponsor for the Woolworths Recovery Zone and all water points for the Absa Cape Epic since 2010, is to continue its sponsorship through 2016. The sponsorship underscores Woolworths’ position as the leader in good food and a healthy lifestyle.

With most of the 1 200 riders taking from six to nine hours to complete each stage, the Absa Cape Epic takes its toll. The first 45 minutes after each day’s ride is critical in terms of recovery.

To aid riders’ recovery, Woolworths prepares special meal packs containing foods specifically chosen by its dietician according to international guidelines for peak-performing endurance athletes.

In addition, Woolworths provides extra instant “fuel” at each water point along the route. As with the recovery packs, Woolworths’ dietician selects these snacks according to international guidelines for peak performance. Riders can also order additional top-up recovery meals through the Woolworths online store.

Bread (white)

850 loaves

Bread (brown)

750 loaves

Mini croissants

10 200

Mini Danish pastries

17 100

Rolls

10 100

Pasta

950kg

Oats

275kg

All-Bran

56kg

Corn Flakes

64kg

Muesli

164kg

Honey

108 litres

Eggs

35 640

Milk

2 105 litres

Beef

1 430kg

Lamb

550kg

Olives

208kg

Chicken

1 795kg

Mince

450kg

Breakfast beef sausage (70g)

9 000

Cheddar cheese

315kg

Mozzarella cheese

144kg

Cottage cheese

70kg

Yoghurt (individual tubs)

13 500

Butter portions (8g)

18 700

Jam portions (8g)

4 400

Peanut butter

37,5kg

NUMBER OF LUNCH PACKS Prologue

1 450

Stages 1–6

1 650/day

Grand finale

1 400

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SPECTATOR INFORMATION

Come along and support your team throughout the race at the various spectator points that are dotted along the route. Race Villages are also a great place to watch the riders start or finish on any particular day – entry is free, and there is a dedicated Family Zone to cater to all. Download the official Spectator Guide at www.cape-epic.com.

ABSA CAPE EPIC PROLOGUE SCHEDULE 06:45

First team starts

10:30

UCI-registered women start

11:00

UCI-registered men start

Noon

Top 10 pro teams start (two-minute intervals)

13:20

Prize-giving – Women

13:30

Prize-giving – Men

PROLOGUE

Sunday, 23 March Start: Meerendal Wine Estate Finish: Meerendal Wine Estate Hoogekraal Farm is situated just off Vissershok Road, approximately halfway between the N7 highway and Meerendal. The dairy farm plays host to Spectator Point A for the 2014 Absa Cape Epic Prologue. There are several points from which to view the race from the start/finish venue at Meerendal

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Wine Estate, as well as a Farmer’s Market that will provide you with more than enough good food and drink for the day.

STAGE 1

Monday, 24 March Start: Arabella Wines – Robertson Finish: Arabella Wines – Robertson Rooiberg Winery, in the picturesque Breede River Valley, is host to Spectator Point A. This point is a quick 20

the effort, with great views and just 40 minutes from the race village in Elgin.

Rider’s face the daunting Rusty Gate climb on this stage, and will appreciate any extra encouragement. Rusty Gate is the highest point of the 2014 race but is inaccessible to spectators.

minutes from the race village along the R60, and will have sumptuous breakfast fare on sale. Look out for the biggest red chair in Africa, and come support the riders. Make sure not to arrive too late, as riders pass through early in the stage. Spectator Point B is also close to the race village but will provide no shade, so remember your sunblock.

STAGE 6

Saturday, 29 March

STAGE 2

Tuesday, 25 March Start: Arabella Wines – Robertson Finish: Arabella Wines – Robertson There are three spectator points on Stage 2, all close to each other, so make the most of the day. To reach Spectator Point A you have to drive along gravel roads, and you are advised not to travel in a vehicle with lowprofile tyres. The town of McGregor has plenty of restaurants and local vendors to keep you fuelled up to cheer the riders on at Spectator Point B, which is conveniently located in Voortrekker Street and will provide a festive atmosphere for riders and spectators alike. In 2012 this point was one of the highlights of the race, and is a mustsee. Allow a little extra time to park and make your way to the spectator point. Make sure to stop in at Spectator Point C on your way back to the race village – it’s conveniently located just off the main road leading back to Robertson.

STAGE 3

Wednesday, 26 March Start: Arabella Wines – Robertson Finish: The Oaks Estate – Greyton Spectator Point A lies in the heart of the small farming village of Riviersonderend. With its shady streets, this is the perfect spot to settle in for some serious spectating. This point is just over an hour away from Arabella Wines, so plan accordingly to spot your team at this point. There are roadworks along the route, so please take this into account, and remember to follow the directions given to avoid crossing the route.

Stage 3 also passes through the private Melozhori Game Reserve, home to over 18 species of game, including buffalo, giraffe and zebra. To book a game

drive combined with exclusive viewing points of the race, please contact info@melozhori.co.za. This option is only available by prior arrangement.

STAGE 4

Thursday, 27 March Start: The Oaks Estate – Greyton Finish: The Oaks Estate – Greyton Greyton, a peaceful village at the foot of the Sonderend mountain range, is a country gem that will enchant and delight you at Spectator Point B. Just 15 minutes from The Oaks Estate, this charming town is filled with restaurants where you can grab a bite while on the spectator trail. All three spectator points on Stage 4 are within 20 minutes of the race village, making it easy to travel between them and give your team some extra encouragement.

STAGE 5

Friday, 28 March Start: The Oaks Estate – Greyton Finish: Oak Valley Wine Estate – Elgin The Queen Stage: with various options to reach the first spectator point on this stage, it is advised that you follow the directions to avoid any delays. Spectator Point B does not have access for mobile homes and city vehicles, but for the wellequipped, the steep road is well worth

Start: Oak Valley Wine Estate – Elgin Finish: Oak Valley Wine Estate – Elgin Stage 6 is a treat for spectators, with three fantastic venues. Houw Hoek Inn is a gracious combination of old-world charm and modern conveniences, making for a great Spectator Point A as spectators can relax on the veranda and watch the race go by while enjoying some breakfast. Spectator Point B is situated on South Hill and will be offering wine tasting and picnics. Paul Cluver provides the natural splendour for Spectator Point C, which happens to be situated at the Amphitheatre, with lots of space and shade for families to relax and take in the race.

STAGE 7

Sunday, 30 March Start: Oak Valley Wine Estate – Elgin Finish: Lourensford Wine Estate The final spectator point for the 2014 Absa Cape Epic lies on the stunning vineyards of Journey’s End Estate, offering a last glimpse of the race before riders take their final pedal strokes to a hero’s/heroine’s welcome at the Grand Finale at Lourensford Wine Estate. Please note that the only access to Lourensford Wine Estate is via Lourensford Road, and heavy traffic is to be expected. Make sure you arrive early to be assured of a parking space.

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N7

MEERENDAL WINE ESTATE PROLOGUE 23 MARCH

PAARL

DURBANVILLE V&A WATERFRONT (REGISTRATION) CAPE TOWN

R44

N1

STELLENBOSCH

R45

LOURENSFORD WINE ESTATE GRAND FINALE 30 MARCH STAGE 7

N2

ELGIN STAGE 6

R44

1:825 000

0 5 10

20

30

THE UNTAMED AFRICAN MTB RACE 60

40 Kilometres

R43

N1

WORCESTER STAGE 1

R60

ROBERTSON STAGE 2

STAGE 4 STAGE 5

STAGE 3

GREYTON

R43

R43

STAGE/EVENTS

DATE

DISTANCE

CLIMBING

Prologue Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage 5 Stage 6 Stage 7

23 March 24 March 25 March 26 March 27 March 28 March 29 March 30 March

23km 108km 101km 110km 88km 110km 85km 69km

700m 2 450m 1 550m 2 900m 1 850m 2 900m 1 800m 1 800m

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TOWNS AND DESTINATIONS The Western Cape is one of the best places in the world to ride mountain bikes.

The Absa Cape Epic’s success is testament to that, and the stage venues for 2014 showcase the Cape’s other great offering: tourism.

V&A WATERFRONT

The registration point for the 2014 Absa Cape Epic, the V&A Waterfront is one of Africa’s most visited landmarks and is a perfect choice to host the Untamed African Mountain Bike Race.

Situated where the land meets the sea, a stone’s throw from the Cape Town Stadium and in the heart of Cape Town’s working harbour, the Waterfront is a one-stop tourist destination, with activities to cater to all tastes. It has more than 80 restaurants and plenty of shops, and hosts the Gateway to Robben Island.

Registration takes place here on Saturday, 22 March. But don’t rush it – linger awhile and soak up all the Waterfront has to offer.

Website: www.waterfront.co.za Tourism information: 021-408-7600

MEERENDAL WINE ESTATE

Meerendal Wine Estate in Durbanville, just 20km from Cape Town, is one of the oldest wine estates in South Africa.

THE UNTAMED AFRICAN MTB RACE 62

Situated close to the Atlantic Ocean, in one of the coolest wine regions of the Western Cape, the unique location and terroir of Meerendal Wine Estate is ideal for the variety of noble cultivars that have been planted: Shiraz, Pinotage, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.

Meerendal Wine Estate is proud to treasure one of South Africa’s oldest vineyards of Pinotage bush vines (planted in 1955) and produces a limited number of bottles from this heritage block. Meerendal Wine Estate has scooped many top wine awards over the past 10 years and exports its quality wine to more than 12 countries.

Website: www.meerendal.co.za Tourism information: info@meerendal.co.za or 021-975-1655

ROBERTSON

In the shadow of the majestic Langeberg Mountains, with the Breede River as its lifeblood, Robertson has grown into one of the most attractive Cape Wineland towns, with its Victorian buildings, jacaranda-lined streets and beautiful gardens. Robertson Wine Valley forms part of the longest wine route in the world, Route 62. Boasting a large number

ELGIN

of cellars, cooperatives and private estates, their awardwinning wines will be a treat for all wine lovers. There are also many diverse activities to try – from laid-back river cruises to vigorous mountain hikes, elegant wining and dining to outdoor picnics – and rich historical sites to explore.

Robertson and its surrounds are a paradise for the nature lover and sports enthusiast. Robertson is food for your soul.

Website: www.robertsontourism.co.za Tourism information: info@robertson.org.za or 023-626-4437

The Elgin Valley, a lush garden valley only 45 minutes from Cape Town, is a natural home for lovers of fresh food, coolclimate wines and beautiful country living. Oak Valley Wine Estate has been in the Rawbone-Viljoen family since 1898. The property, with its 4 000-plus oak trees, is steeped in history and is renowned for its range of premium wines made from the grapes grown in vineyards situated up to 600m above sea level.

Elgin’s elegant wines have won a clutch of coveted local and international awards, and its delicious fruits have earned acceptance at worldwide markets. The reasons for this are the purposeful drive and passion of the family-owned wineries and farms, gourmet restaurants and delis, bed and breakfasts, gardens, outdoor adventure options and farm stalls that occupy this magical valley, and the generosity of nature.

Website: www.elginvalley.co.za Tourism information: info@elginvalley.co.za or 021-848-9838

GREYTON LOURENSFORD WINE ESTATE Greyton in the Overberg is a magical place, nestled at the foot of the majestic Sonderend mountain range at the end of the R406, a scenic hour and a half drive from Cape Town. It was founded as an agricultural village where all landowners were self-sufficient, growing their own produce and keeping livestock. The leiwater irrigation system was channelled to each property to provide fresh running water to each household, and this system still operates successfully today. Mountain biking is hugely popular in the area, and the village hosts excellent, clearly marked trails, all entirely off-road. There is track to suit all levels of riders, making Greyton the perfect environment to enjoy mountain biking as a family. The Greyton Nature Reserve is right on the town’s doorstep and offers numerous walking and hiking trails, including the famous Boesmanskloof Trail between Greyton and the neighbouring town of McGregor.

Website: www.greytontourism.com Tourism information: info@greytontourism.com or 028-254- 9564/9414

Located in the hills of Somerset West, Lourensford Wine Estate, established in 1700, is arguably one of the most scenic wine estates in the world. With history and heritage to share with visitors, the estate also houses an ultramodern winery that utilises technology that is unique to the southern hemisphere. The soils and microclimates create the ideal conditions for award-winning wines. With over 300ha of vines already planted, it is well on its way to becoming one of the biggest wine estates in South Africa.

The estate is also a popular location for local and international film shoots and has hosted some of Hollywood’s elite. The estate hosts annual sporting and cultural events with thousands of participants and spectators, and is a sought-after venue for weddings and corporate functions.

Website: www.lourensford.co.za Tourism information: info@lourensford.co.za or 021-847-2333

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SMILE AND WAVE

“South Africa is to mountain biking what Hawaii is to surfing.” This is a statement I tweeted during the 2013 Absa Cape Epic, and it resonated with some and mystified others. The Absa Cape Epic liked it, and asked me to elaborate. By Brandon Els

SO WHY DID I TWEET THAT?

I am lucky to have 25 years’ experience in the sports industry, initially in a surfing shop and subsequently, mountain biking. I have been able to watch the Absa Cape Epic lead South African mountain biking from humble beginnings in the late 1980s to where the country is today, at the forefront of the sport.

THE UNTAMED AFRICAN MTB RACE 64

TO ME, SOUTH AFRICA IS THE HAWAII OF MOUNTAIN BIKING. LET’S TAKE A LOOK AT WHY. HAWAII

SOUTH AFRICA

You cannot think about surfing without thinking about Hawaii.

You cannot think about mountain biking without thinking about South Africa.

The magical and untamed waves of Hawaii form the natural wonders and playground of passionate surfers from around the world.

The magical and untamed mountains, forests and bushveld of South Africa form the natural wonders and playground of passionate mountain bikers from around the world.

From the winter waves of Makaha off Oahu’s West Shore and Waimea Bay on the North Shore, to the shores of Waikiki Beach, Hawaii welcomes both amateur and professional surfers to challenge its legendary conditions and to live, breathe and party its surf lifestyle and culture.

From the lush forest trails of Harkerville on the Garden Route and Karkloof in the KZN Midlands to the sun-baked hardpack trails around Gauteng and the ruthless, annually altered route of the Absa Cape Epic, South Africa welcomes both amateur and professional mountain bikers to challenge its legendary landscapes and to live, breathe and party its mountain-biking lifestyle and culture.

Some of the world’s biggest surfing events are held in Hawaii.

The world’s premier mountain bike stage race, the Absa Cape Epic, is held in South Africa.

In coffee shops and cafés, the talk is about the next big wave, the last “sick” session or the secret tweak that has been made to a board.

In coffee shops and cafés, the talk is about the next technical singletrack, the last “killer” ride or the secret tweak that has been made to a bike.

Aloha! = Welcome to surfing utopia!

Howzit! = Welcome to mountain-biking utopia!

Hawaii and South Africa – both blessed with natural wonders, a world apart, yet united by the human spirit of surfers and mountain bikers.

That is why South Africa is to mountain biking what Hawaii is to surfing.

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1

5

2

SPOT THE CELEB

4

6 7 8

9 10

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3

Competing in the 2014 Absa Cape Epic is a vast array of sporting legends from South Africa.

MICHAEL BOOGERD Former professional road-racing cyclist

However, there are also international competitors who travel to the Western Cape to experience the Untamed African Mountain Bike Race. From triathletes to racing drivers, captains of industry, and even a duke, these are some of the international riders taking part in the 11th edition of the race in 2014.

ALAIN PROST Former racing driver

2

Nicknamed “The Professor”, Prost has won four Formula 1 World Championships. An active child, he took part in wrestling, roller skating and football – breaking his nose several times – and then took up go-karting at 14. He teamed up with top waterskier Sébastien Di Pasqua, successfully completing the 2012 and 2013 Epics. He’s aiming to join the Amabubesi club in 2014.

Real estate developer, entrepreneur and businessman, this Norwegian national is perhaps as famous for his rally driving, skiing and mountaineering, and has led several successful expeditions to Greenland and Antarctica. Tollefsen’s performance at the Dakar Rally in 2009 saw his teammate Quin Evans come in fourth, the highest position achieved by a non-factory driver since its inception.

3

The native Swede has won the gruelling Hawaii Ultraman twice (not to be confused with the Ironman, although he has won the Elbaman too). The Ultraman distances are more than double those of the Ironman triathlon – a 10km swim, a 360km bike ride and an 85km run. Colting certainly has the engine needed to cope with long days in the saddle.

8

SEBASTIEN DI PASQUA Former waterskiing star

4

Since the age of 19, Seb has been flying over lakes all over the world in his waterskiing endeavours. He is a 15-times national record holder and also a two-times European-record holder.

Partnering with Alain Prost again in 2014 proves their winning combination and determination at the Absa Cape Epic.

BEN BOSTROM Motorcycle racer

ERBEN WENNEMAR Speed skater

6

At the height of his career, the Dutch former world champion speed skater specialised in sprint and middle distances of 500m, 1 000m and 1 500m. Voted athlete of the year in the Netherlands three times, he was the first skater in the world to break the 1:50:00 mark in the 1 500m. Let’s see how he fares over eight days.

7

Bostrom won the AMA Superbike Championship in 1998 and the Superbike World Championship in 2000, claiming six races. His career began off-road, though, when he took the AMA National 600 Dirt Track Championship, so he’s returning to his roots. Speed is clearly his forte, but he’ll find out in good time how strong he is on endurance.

RAFAEL MEDINA ABASCAL 20th Duke of Feria, Grandee of Spain

JOSEF AJRAM Businessman and endurance junkie Born in Barcelona, Ajram is a stock-market guru and passionate endurance athlete. He’s won the Titan Desert 2012 in the Mixed category, taken third place at Ultraman Canada and won the Epic5 Challenge (five Ironmans in five days on five Hawaiian islands). He has also somehow found time to write four books.

The Dutch road race former champion has won the famous one-day classic Amstel Gold Race and two stages in the Tour de France, and has taken overall honours at Paris-Nice. Though his career spanned a difficult time for pro cycling – with revelations coming to light recently – there’s no taking away from the fact that he is a highly talented and determined athlete.

JONAS COLTING Triathlete

IVAR TOLLEFSEN Former rally car driver

5

1

9

As a descendant of King Ferdinand I of Aragon and grandson of Victoria Eugenia Fernández de Córdoba, 18th Duchess of Medinaceli, he belongs to Spain’s House of Medinaceli. The European aristocrat founded Scalpers (a men’s fashion line) and was included in Vanity Fair’s International Best-Dressed List in 2007. All eyes on his team kit for the Epic…

DENNIS VAN DER LAAR Racing driver

10

The Dutch racing driver competed in the FIA European Formula 3 Championship in 2013 at the age of 19. He placed third at the Suzuki Swift Cup in 2010, and certainly has a long career of motor racing ahead of him. He’s supplementing his preparations with a strong dose of aerobic conditioning – in particular, the Absa Cape Epic.

www.cape-epic.com 67

PROLOGUE Short, and filled with loads of purpose-built singletrack, the Prologue is the first test for rider and machine for the week to come.

Rolling off the start-ramp, the route takes riders through – yes, through – the historic Meerendal Manor House, after which a surprising twist awaits. Riders then face the challenging singletrack climb up Stairway to Heaven to the top of Dorstberg

SUNDAY, 23 MARCH 2014 START: MEERENDAL WINE ESTATE FINISH: MEERENDAL WINE ESTATE

and its 360-degree views of Table Mountain, Robben Island and Cape Point. Teams will have to forgo sightseeing as they dive straight into a rugged renosterveld-lined trail that descends into the quarry and the adjacent Hoogekraal Farm, where sweeping singletrack lies in wait. Well-bermed turns make for a fun roller-coaster descent as the route heads back through steep vineyards, up a steady climb past dairy fields and onto Meerendal, concluding with singletrack and broad smiles on riders’ faces.

SUPERSPORT

V

LIVE ON T

09:00

#capeepic #amabubesi /absacapeepic @absacapeepic follow the riders online w ww. c a p e - ep i c. c o m

23 KILOMETRES 700m TOTAL CLIMB

ROUTE SPONSORS

www.cape-epic.com 69

STAGE 1

MONDAY 24 MARCH 2014 START: ROBERTSON – - ARABELLA ARABELLA WINES WINES FINISH: ROBERTSON – - ARABELLA ARABELLA WINES WINES

Each year, Stage 1 of the Absa Cape Epic is referred to as one of the hardest of the race, and it’s no different in 2014.

The stage is as tough as it is beautiful with the most spectacular views rewarded after the most demanding climbs. The day is characterised by a fast start to water point 1, where the real challenge begins. Three major climbs, all on rough surfaces, take riders through pristine fynbos deep into the foothills of the Langeberg Mountains. Tortoise Hill stands out with its double peak and precariously steep descent, followed by some

relentless ridgeline riding and the sharp zigzag climb starting off through cooling pine trees before once again heading for the skies. Be warned, it’s the harsh surface and exposure to the African sun and heat that will make this day challenging – - as as well as the fact that most of the climbing is packed into the 45km section in the middle of the stage. Riders will be able to make up some time on the final 25km as the terrain eases back into flowing farm and gravel roads.

#capeepic #amabubesi /absacapeepic @absacapeepic follow the riders online ww w. c a p e - ep i c. c o m

108 KILOMETRES 2 450m 2450M TOTAL CLIMBING CLIMB

108km THE UNTAMED AFRICAN MTB RACE 70

STAGE 2

TUESDAY, 25 MARCH 2014 START: ROBERTSON – ARABELLA WINES FINISH: ROBERTSON – ARABELLA WINES

After the rude awakening of Stage 1, Stage 2 is much gentler.

The day once again starts off fast, including some amazing singletrack riding, before visiting the quaint village of McGregor with its well preserved 19th-century architecture.

Water point 2, right in the main road, promises a festive atmosphere where the warm hospitality of the Langeberg

region is sure to lift the spirits. Speeds increase as district roads head deep into the unspoilt expanses of this rugged and striking landscape of red sandstone and underlying shale formations. The hardest climb of the day, Neil’s Folly, awaits around the 75km mark, but riders do get to enjoy some wonderful sections of the day’s characteristic flowing semidesert Karoo trails before descending into the lush Breede River Valley, home to Arabella Wines.

#capeepic #amabubesi /absacapeepic @absacapeepic follow the riders online w ww. c a p e - ep i c. c o m

101 KILOMETRES 1 550m TOTAL CLIMB

www.cape-epic.com

71

STAGE 3

WEDNESDAY, 26 MARCH 2014 START: ROBERTSON – ARABELLA WINES FINISH: GREYTON – THE OAKS ESTATE

Today’s stage is the longest day, a transition from the succulent Robertson Karoo vegetation to the farmlands of Greyton and the Cape Country Meander.

The first 50km on quiet district roads are fast, although there are some entertaining deviations from the beaten path, with a few short but steep climbs to keep riders on their toes. The route then heads through Melozhori Game Reserve, home to African wildlife such as antelope, zebra,

giraffe and buffalo. There’s The Big Drop, but it’s not plain sailing – watch out for the bushes lining the descent!

From here it’s flat(ish), following the Riviersonderend upstream. As the name (river without end) suggests, it’s still a way to go, with Puff Adder Hill a short but rocky climb slowing down the pace. After that, expect fast bunch riding on this relatively easy stretch of district and farm roads with some rolling hills where riders can clock up the kays. But just when it looks as if the day is done, there is a sting in the tail as riders are diverted onto farmlands for the final approach of the brandnew race village at The Oaks Estate, just outside Greyton.

#capeepic #amabubesi /absacapeepic @absacapeepic follow the riders online ww w. c a p e - ep i c. c o m

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134 KILOMETRES 1 800m TOTAL CLIMB

STAGE 4

THURSDAY 27 MARCH 2014 START: GREYTON – THE OAKS ESTATE FINISH: GREYTON – THE OAKS ESTATE

Stage 4 is the kind of day that makes a mountain biker’s heart beat faster (we think it’s because of the abundance of singletrack).

But, be warned, there is plenty of climbing crammed into this relatively short stage.

With a recent boost to the vast network of trails that the Cape Country Meander is famous for, the stage is a roller coaster of farm roads, twisty and rocky singletrack as well as some district roads in the middle section to spin out those legs. The historical highlight of the day is the

small town of Genadendal, home to the first mission station in southern Africa and its Moravian church. More flowing trails take riders to the neighbouring town of Greyton. As the crow flies it’s less than 10km from here to the finish, but riders will be left wondering whether to love or hate the route designers over the next 25-odd kays as, on tired legs, they face short but hard climbs that alternate with exhilarating descents. All in all, it’s a fun day; just don’t be fooled into thinking that fun means easy…

#capeepic #amabubesi /absacapeepic @absacapeepic follow the riders online ww w. c a p e - ep i c. c o m

88 KILOMETRES 1 850m TOTAL CLIMB

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OFFICIAL SPORTS DRINK SUPPLIER TO THE 2014

8 GRUELLING DAYS. 718KM. 14 850M OF CLIMBING. www.energade.co.za

STAGE 5

FRIDAY, 28 MARCH 2014 START: GREYTON – THE OAKS ESTATE FINISH: ELGIN – OAK VALLEY WINE ESTATE

This is the Queen Stage – arguably the hardest of this year’s race, with the most amount of climbing.

It would be wise to conserve some energy on the first 50km, where Serengeti awaits as the warm-up to its big brother Rusty Gate, the highest point in this year’s race. It’s a relentless 5km climb at an average 10% gradient. What goes up must come down, with a short spike on a firebreak being more challenging on the mind than on the legs. A short tar section

along the Theewaterskloof Dam wall offers some reprieve before it gets tough again with some steep climbs as riders generally make their way skywards to water point 3. Thereafter it’s a rugged false-flat grind on a loose eroded surface flanking the majestic Groenlandberg. It will be slow going, albeit through truly spectacular scenery. From the nek (col), the last 14km are mostly downhill all the way to the race village at Oak Valley Wine Estate, a rewarding finish to a truly epic day.

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110 KILOMETRES 2 900m TOTAL CLIMB

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STAGE 6

SATURDAY, 29 MARCH 2014 START: ELGIN – OAK VALLEY WINE ESTATE FINISH: ELGIN – OAK VALLEY WINE ESTATE

Riders still in the race have definitely earned the rewards of Stage 6.

Although there is 1 800m of total climbing, riders will mostly remember the amazing singletrack descents that are dotted along today’s route. The first section is a cruise through vineyards, apple orchards and fynbos. Just before water point 1 at Houw Hoek Inn, riders enjoy their first sampling of the great singletrack still to come. After a steady climb on forestry roads, the next highlight awaits – a fast, gradually descending dual

track dropping deep into the Elgin Valley. The climb out will soon be rewarded with the sweeping purpose-built mountain bike tracks of Lebanon. And just when riders think it can’t get any better, the trails at Paul Cluver await, smooth and perfectly carved, with spectacular bridges – expect loads of spectators at the Amphitheatre. There is still some climbing to be done to get back to Oak Valley, but that too is instantly rewarded with some final exhilarating trails, ensuring that riders finish with broad grins on their faces after what has unanimously been voted by the trial ride teams as the most fun stage of 2014.

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85 KILOMETRES 1 800m TOTAL CLIMB

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Sasol partnerships offer value to customers

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013 marked significant milestones in Sasol’s history. The petroleum giant signed major deals with 3 remarkable brands which will ultimately benefit South African customers.

Recently, Sasol announced its sponsorship of the Absa Cape Epic. Sasol’s contribution will enable the Absa Cape Epic to match the Ladies prize purse to that of the Men’s prize purse in 2014. The Absa Cape Epic is already the largest total prize purse in the world for mountain biking and the increase to R690 000 for the Ladies prize purse now takes the race’s total prize purse across all categories to R1 564 000. Sasol will also be the official fuel supplier to the Absa Cape Epic.

“We’re delighted to be sponsoring the legendary Absa Cape Epic. This gruelling race demands exceptional performance from all

riders, regardless of their gender. We believe the prize money should reflect this and we’re therefore very proud to be increasing the 2014 Ladies prize, to equal to that of the men,” commented Alan Cameron, Managing Director of Sasol Oil.

South Africa (Pty) Ltd (BURGER KING® South Africa) and the famous WHOPPER® sandwich will be available at Sasol retail sites across the country from early 2014.

José Cil, President, EMEA, Burger King Worldwide mentioned, “This is a very exciting Sasol joined Absa as its exclusive fuel partner opportunity for Burger King South Africa. The in Absa Rewards. The deal provides 5% bank agreement with Sasol allows us to position sponsored cashback on all purchases at Sasol our brand across new channels and therefore branded forecourts and convenience stores to expand our number of guests and restaurants approximately 1.3 million Absa Rewards for in South Africa, as well as offering a new way members. To become a member of the Absa of enjoying our products to clients across the Rewards loyalty program, an Absa customer country. needs to have at least one transactional “The vision behind all these partnerships is to account with Absa which includes an Absa continuously meet the needs of our valued Current account, a selected Absa Savings customers in a rapidly changing business account or an Absa Credit card. landscape,” says Cameron.

In addition to the Absa deal, Sasol signed an exclusive agreement with BURGER KING®

OFFICIAL FUEL SPONSOR

STAGE 7

SUNDAY, 30 MARCH 2014 START: ELGIN – OAK VALLEY WINE ESTATE FINISH: LOURENSFORD WINE ESTATE

It’s a traditional final day culminating at Lourensford Wine Estate, where a hero’s (and heroine’s) welcome awaits the tired riders.

The day is short, with a late start, but it’s no free ride to the finish. There are a few final hurdles, like the climb up Nuweberg on forestry roads, with its steep, washed-out descent.

Once over the Hottentots-Holland mountain range, riders will get to enjoy the vistas from False Bay all the way back to Cape Town, where their journey began some 700-odd kilometres ago. A final steep singletrack climb, and riders can smell home as they enter the Lourensford Bowl for what promises to be yet another emotional Grand Finale.

SUPERSPORT

V

LIVE ON T

09:00

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69 KILOMETRES 1 800m TOTAL CLIMB

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CELEBRATE AT STAGE9!

Date: 30 March 2014 / Time: 18:30 for 19:00 / Price: R350

Stage9 is the official after-party of the Absa Cape Epic, and we are bringing the celebration back to the Mother City!

Set on a private beach, with sky and ocean as the ideal backdrop, the Grand Café & Beach is the most desirable venue in Cape Town and the official venue for Stage9.

So, we have the view – pair that with delectable finger food, excellent entertainment and a private beach bar for an evening you’re guaranteed to remember. All we need is the good company. See you all at Stage9!

Tickets can be purchased on www.cape-epic.com, or at the Race Office during the event. All are welcome but tickets are limited, so get yours before they sell out.

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DAN THE MAN

MC extraordinaire Dan Nicholl admires Vanessa Haywood’s all-new 2014 race kit.

Dan’s happy hour kicks off in the Chill Zone at 17:00 every day.

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It wasn’t so much an office as a rather large cupboard, tucked away and forgotten in the back of the building. The desk and chair could well have been rescued from a tip. Occasional shards of light fought through grimy windows to the gloom within, and the only splash of colour came from the crimson packaging of discarded cups of takeaway coffee. A distinctly underwhelming setting, then – and an unlikely creative hub from which one man’s mad mountain-biking vision became an extraordinary reality. By Dan Nicholl I remember Kevin Vermaak’s starting point vividly, for my office was next door. In a previous life as a sports journalist, I’d spend long weekends chronicling results and reports from across the sporting world, with only a temperamental PC and an unsteady internet connection for company.

KEVIN VERMAAK But that changed when Kevin took occupation of his cupboard and proceeded to all but live there. No matter how early I arrived or how late I departed, he was at his desk, the building’s mad scientist at work on his deranged cycling plan. Surviving on a diet of caffeine, Kauai and the occasional hour of sleep, he cut a spectral figure at times; and so, despite our proximity, I kept a guarded distance and waited for the day they took him away to a padded room…

But, among the many qualities of a man I’m now proud to call a close friend, Kevin is awfully persuasive, and after two years of me deftly sidestepping his advances, he finally talked me into joining his crusade in its formative years and becoming part of the presenting team. My first night on the Epic was spent sleeping on the floor of a woodcutter’s hut 40 minutes outside Knysna, next to a television cameraman with a snore that could have passed for heavy artillery. I swore I’d never see another day of the race – and 2014 marks my ninth Epic.

Since that lamentable beginning, I’ve had an intimate view of Kevin’s dream finding its feet and growing into an event even he didn’t foresee the success of. To watch the Olympic gold, silver and bronze medallists line up at the start in 2013, at the head of a peloton teeming with riders from around the world, speaks volumes of the Epic’s stature as a race. But it’s about far more than getting to the finish line each day. The race village, the media coverage, the supporters, the raw beauty of the route – in every sense, it’s an unparalleled celebration that has captured the imagination well beyond the mountain-biking community.

My race is a little different to PAUL KAYE anyone else’s. Paul Kaye gets the day going with far too much energy for so early in the day – his internationally growing status as an announcer is well deserved. I cast a sleepy eye

over the start and then head out to man the first spectator point, welcoming 1 200 riders each day by name and nationality. The first of them speed by in a blur. As the day unfolds, progress is more leisurely, and the last of the day’s peloton (usually including a large rugby player whom Kevin’s talked into riding) reflects the battering that particular stage has dished out until then. I’ll see most of the riders much later, either seeking comfort in the bar for the daily happy hour I host, or at dinner for the evening presentation. In between, though, I indulge in my own version of the Absa Cape Epic.

Dan’s Epic Wine Tasting has become an established post-race event over the last few years, based on the sizeable collection I amass from the wine areas the race traverses each year. Boutique vineyards in Tulbagh, sprawling collectives in Robertson, cool, shaded estates in Elgin. I’ve found old favourites, discovered new ones, and used the race to give an exciting new dimension to my cellar. Not that it lasts long, though – I have a very thirsty wife…

Epic memories abound as I near a decade on board: European riders (men and women) strolling to the race village showers after a long stage, wearing nothing but sandals and a smile; the local village jazz trio – comprising four members – that entertained us one evening; 120kg of Robbie Kempson, former Springbok prop forward, hauling himself through eight days of agony, cursing Kevin with every last breath for getting him involved. And the sheer emotion of the finish line, where I have shed many tears every year as ordinary people suddenly realise they’ve completed a most extraordinary feat.

There have been low points as well. Translating a doctor’s directive to a French rider that he couldn’t continue, with the finish line hours away is a memory that still sparks a cold shiver, and no race will ever seem quite the same without the easy smile of Burry Stander at its helm.

But it’s exactly that range of drama that allows the Epic to live up to so a grand a name, and why my 10 days riding the coatBURRY STANDER tails of Kevin Vermaak’s dream are such a highlight on the calendar every single year. And all this from a dusty, cramped office that could have passed for a cupboard.

www.cape-epic.com

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THE GRAND FINALE

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When: 30 March 2014 Where: Lourensford Wine Estate The last stage of the Absa Cape Epic finishes like it starts – with a bang!

The beautiful Lourensford Wine Estate in Somerset West is becoming something of a traditional finish.

Not only is it a fitting end to eight incredibly tough days of competition and camaraderie for the riders, but it is also the spectators’ chance to witness the final battle between some of the world’s best mountain bikers.

Bring along family and friends to welcome these brave athletes home.

It promises to be a day of adventure, accompanied by great food, fine wine and live entertainment in a truly superb setting. Hospitality packages are available for the

Grand Finale. Or kick back with the family and delight in the live entertainment, including a performance by the fresh new face of pop music in Cape Town, Beatenberg.

No one will be left out of the festivities. The Liqui-Fruit Kids Race will begin at 09:00 for the future stars of the Absa Cape Epic. There will also be a dedicated LiquiFruit Kids Zone, providing hours of fun.

Come and take part in one of the Liqui-Fruit Vineyard Races before watching the Absa Cape Epic race leaders cross the 6km Vineyard Trail Run finish line.

DISTANCE

START TIME

51km Vineyard MTB Race

07:00

26km Vineyard MTB Race

07:30

16km Vineyard Trail Run

08:00

6km Vineyard Trail Run

08:10

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DAILY RACE TOURS

Experience the crowd, the course, the energy and the excitement during our official Daily Race Tours.

Follow the leaders and experience the electric atmosphere as the world’s best mountain bikers pass by the spectator points along the beautiful Western Cape countryside. Return to the finish line to watch a sprint finish for the stage victory as well as the daily awards presentation in the hospitality lounge.

Enjoy a comprehensive guided tour of the race village to get a glimpse of the organisation behind the scenes and get a taste of life in the race village.

PACKAGE INCLUDES: • Transportation in an exclusive airconditioned nine-seater passenger vehicle • Dedicated driver and hostess • Reserved areas at public spectator points • Catering, with delicious snacks en route • Commemorative gift – a different gift every day • Finish-line track-side hospitality • Private guided race village tour PRICE: R900 per person per day, incl. VAT

HOSPITALITY GRAND FINALE DATE: 30 MARCH 2014 Lourensford Wine Estate plays host to more than 15 000 people at the Grand Finale. Located at the finish line, the prestigious Luxury Hospitality Lounge is the perfect venue for participating in the celebrations, fun and entertainment while enjoying luxurious decor, fine foods and live TV. It also provides the perfect base from which to embark on one of the Vineyard trailrunning or mountain bike races at Lourensford before joining family and friends at the Luxury Hospitality Lounge.

PACKAGE INCLUDES: • Entry to lourensford grand finale, including all performances • Preferential parking • Extensive range of finger foods • Complimentary local bar • Dedicated hostesses, waiters and cocktail waitresses • Complimentary entries to the vineyard trail-running and mountain bike races

HELICOPTER FLIGHTS

Get a bird’s-eye view of the race. Hover over the Western Cape’s beautiful mountains, passes, fields and slopes. Witness how the riders conquer the route and their daily struggle. This is a truly unique and impressive experience.

PACKAGE INCLUDES: Helicopter flight (20 minutes) PRICE: R1 800 per person, incl. VAT

Helicopter flight 20 minutes R1 800pp

HOSPITALITY OPTIONS: • Shared and private lounge facilities available for individuals as well as for groups of all sizes PRICE: R1 400 per person, incl. VAT

BOOK

An exclusive helicopter shuttle service from the V&A Waterfront to Lourensford Wine Estate.

For all hospitality enquiries, please email hospitality@cape-epic.com.

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JAG FOUNDATION The JAG Foundation uses sport and play as a catalyst for change, exposing children in disadvantaged communities to an alternative life path.

Alcohol and drugs are the root cause of almost all of South Africa’s ills: gangsterism, crime, HIV/AIDS, domestic violence and unemployment, which are actively prevalent in the lives of children in disadvantaged communities. Our mentoring, coaching, knowledge and organised sport and play programmes target the issues of alcohol, drugs and gangsterism head-on by showing children the real and attainable opportunity of an alternative life path, that can give them hope and provide an escape from the societal predisposition of their future. Our programmes use sporting codes, imparting the core values learnt through sport, play and fun. These codes are: Mighty Metres (basic movement development), JAGRunners (cross-country coach development), JAGRiders (cycling), JAGRugby (rugby) and JAGBullyProof (ball games). The JAGBullyProof programme is available to schools and institutions free of charge, in manual form. The programme uses ball games to tackle the problem of bullying.

| OFFICIAL CHARITY

More than 11 000 children in Grades 4–7, from 25 schools, have attended the JAGBullyProof programme since it introduced was in 2009. We deal with the epidemic of bullying, rather than singling out bullies as the problem. Our aim is to cut bullies off at the knees by removing the power that bullying affords them. This is achieved by equipping children with the tools and mindset to protect themselves against this abuse. Taking back power from bullies is empowering and helps reinforce confidence and self-esteem.

It’s no longer about being a victim – it’s about the decision to not allow a bully the chance to hold power over you.

Twitter: @JAGfoundation Facebook: www.facebook.com/JAGFoundation Website: www.jagfoundation.org.za

THE ANNA FOUNDATION The Anna Foundation runs after-school centres on farms, in rural schools and in children’s homes throughout the Western Cape, where our 3 Rs Programme: “Reading, Running and Right-ing” is implemented.

This professionally designed programme for learners from Grades R–12 aims to meet the holistic needs of vulnerable and disadvantaged rural children. Programmes involve the completion of literacy and numeracy development tasks, as well as homework support, sports and physical development programmes and life skills lessons learnt through drama. Men and women from rural communities, often with no formal qualifications or teaching experience, receive ongoing training and are equipped with the skills to successfully implement the 3 Rs Programme. Through the programme, the foundation aims to empower children with

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| ASSOCIATE CHARITY

life skills, core values and improved self-esteem and self-worth, leading to improved education and literacy levels, improved fitness and health, greater life opportunities and bigger future visions. Without self-worth and self-confidence, children will not perform optimally at school, or see the need to improve themselves, and they will not have a future vision to aspire to.

Twitter: @AnnaFoundation Facebook: www.facebook.com/theannafoundation Website: www.annafoundation.com

CANSA

| OFFICIAL CHARITY

The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) offers a unique integrated service to the public and all people affected by cancer.

The scientific findings gained from research done by CANSA – a leading role player in cancer research, with more than R6 million spent annually – is used to realign CANSA’s health programmes and strengthen its watchdog role, to the benefit of the public.

CANSA’s health programme comprises prevention and education campaigns; more than 30 CANSA Care Centres that offer stoma support and lymphoedema management; medical equipment hire; a toll-free line and support to those affected by cancer; and patient care in the form of 12 CANSA Care Homes in metropolitan areas for out-of-town cancer patients, a hospice based in Polokwane, as well as CANSA-TLC lodging for parents and guardians of children undergoing cancer treatment.

CANSA mobilises volunteers to offer health programmes and support in more than 500 communities across the country, to ensure that cancer patients and their loved ones do not have

to face cancer alone. CANSA offers cancer patients and their families the needed support to help make the cancer experience a little easier. CANSA is committed to connecting people facing cancer with the information, day-to-day help and the emotional support they need to help them through their cancer journey, promoting a better quality of life for them and their loved ones.

For the Absa Cape Epic, it’s all about CANSA Active – “Feel Good Fun”. CANSA will be providing free sunscreen to all participants and spectators at the event.

Twitter: @CANSA Facebook: www.facebook.com/CancerAssociationOfSouthAfrica Website: www.cansa.org.za

CAPE LEOPARD TRUST The Cape Leopard Trust was launched in 2004 as a predator-conservation working group in the Cape.

By using scientific research as a tool for conservation, the Trust is able to create credible solutions to human-wildlife conflict, and as a result, inspire greater interest in biodiversity among communities, farmers and children.

Since its inception, the Cape Leopard Trust has become the authority on predator conservation in the Cape, and one of the leading authorities in South Africa. The project has grown to include initiatives in the Cederberg, Namaqualand, Gouritz Corridor, Central Karoo and the Boland mountains, as well as a global project, Capture for Conservation, assisting other countries with ethical capture methods.

Ten years on and the Cape Leopard Trust has developed a highly successul environmental-education project that reaches out to children and young people across the Cape, and offers a number of fully sponsored camps each year in order to host learners from disadvantaged communities.

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| ASSOCIATE CHARITY

The project’s goal remains to mitigate human conflict with predators while implementing broader conservation measures in wilderness areas of the Western Cape and the Northern Cape, by working hand in hand with the people, governmental and non-governmental organisations, using education as the key to changing mindsets.

In 2003, an annual average of seven to as many as 17 leopards were legally killed by farmers. Only two were killed between 2004 and 2007. Since then, thanks in part to a voluntary commitment in the Cederberg Conservancy, there have been zero conflict-related leopard mortalities. Long may it continue!

Twitter: @Cape_Leopard Facebook: www.facebook.com/capeleopard Website: www.capeleopard.org.za

QHUBEKA

| OFFICIAL CHARITY

What if a bicycle could be a symbol of hope?

At Qhubeka we believe that when we give bicycles to people who’ve earned them, we are giving them not only a means of transportation but also the gift of hope.

This is one of the reasons why we chose the name “Qhubeka”, an Nguni (isisZulu/isiXhosa) word that means “to carry on”, “to progress” or “to move forwards”.

As World Bicycle Relief’s programme in South Africa, we believe in giving a hand up, not a hand out. This is why we help people progress by giving bicycles in return for work done to improve communities, the environment or academic results.

Much of the population has limited access to reliable transport. Many people have to walk long distances to access opportunities, education, healthcare, shops and community services. Of 16 million schoolgoing children in South Africa, 12 million walk to school. Of these, 500 000 spend four hours walking to and from school each day.

Bicycles are the most effective and economical method of quickly addressing this problem. Having a bicycle changes lives by increasing the distance people can travel, what they can carry, where they can go and how fast they can get there.

We are proud to be associated with Team MTN-Qhubeka p/b Samsung, Africa’s first UCI-registered professional continental cycling team. The team rides to raise awareness and increase exposure for Qhubeka through their pro-continental cycling programme. In addition, a portion of their prize money is donated to Qhubeka to help us mobilise people on bicycles.

Twitter: @Qhubeka Facebook: www.facebook.com/QhubekaBicycles Website: www.qhubeka.org

TM

BIG TREE FOUNDATION If you are reading this, it is only because you received an education…

Think about this for a moment. Where would you be if you could not read, write or do maths?

As one of the charities of the Absa Cape Epic, Big Tree Foundation is all about education. We are focused on the provision of school clothing to learners in the rural communities touched by the annual race. Our discussions with teachers have led us to understand that children who have broken or ill-fitting, hand-me-down clothing, are often too embarrassed to attend school. I am sure we can all resonate with the warm fuzzy feeling we have when wearing a new item of clothing. You need to amplify this tenfold to imagine how these vulnerable children feel when they receive new school clothes.

Our experience has shown us that a good, clean set of school clothes can boost learners’ confidence, and, in so doing,

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| ASSOCIATE CHARITY

increase their attendance and involvement in lessons, and consequently improve their academic results. Being able to ask questions, to stand up and participate in class and to feel part of the group are all essential to a child’s development.

Big Tree Foundation wants to create a sense of “I can do this” in every child. Please visit our website and see how you can be part of the solution.

Twitter: @BigTreeZA Facebook: www.facebook.com/BigTreeFoundation Website: www.bigtree.org.za

FOLLOW, LIKE, WATCH Can’t get the Absa Cape Epic? Follow the action via our social media portals and you won’t miss a pedal-stroke.

AILY D H WATC HTS G I L H HIG on PORT S R E SUP

www.facebook.com/capeepic www.cape-epic.com

@absacapeepic #absacapeepic

www.youtube.com/absacapeepic

#amabubesi

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IT TAKES TWO At the end of the 2012 Absa Cape Epic, about a minute after I had crossed the line at Lourensford, and long before the sense that I had managed to finish a race I wasn’t really sure I could, Paul Kaye, the man with the microphone, said he could see some tears in my eyes. By Kevin McCallum “Paul, there have been tears since the first day,” I told him. And then I started crying. Again. I’d been crying for the final 5km of the 2012 race, the one many believe was perhaps the toughest yet. It was the fault of Jack Stroucken, my partner on Team Absa, a wise man who had ridden it four times before and who had been chosen by Team Absa to guide me on my debut at the event.

With 5km to go, Jack turned to me and said, “Well, that’s it.

It’s downhill all the way to the line from here.” I looked at my Garmin and shook my head. We had climbed 1 350m, and I was convinced there was 1 650m more of climbing. Jack told me I was wrong. I said he was wrong. Then he showed me the stage profile on his handlebars. He was right. Jack rode on my left and began to speak.

“It’s been an absolute honour and a privilege to ride with you,” he said, and spoke more of how much he had enjoyed being with me. Tears welled, and I rode up ahead of him so he could not see them as they streamed down my cheeks. I drifted back and tried to tell him how wonderful he had been to me, how he had helped me at my lowest point and made me believe I could finish the race.

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Jack and I had never met before the Absa Cape Epic.

Team Absa puts riders together who they think are well suited. Jack was in banking, I was a sports writer, but it was a partnership that worked because of Jack’s patience and strength and my desire to prove a lot of people wrong. One professional rider had bet his teammate R100 I wouldn’t finish. He lost.

Partnerships at the race are about acceptance and the realisation of strengths and weaknesses. Jack had failed to cross the line the year before with Team Absa, after his partner had struggled and he had to push her bike up.

They missed the cut-off by less than a minute. That was my motivation – to make sure Jack never had to push my bike.

We were Team Absa JackMac. Being part of Team Absa meant your riding partner was not your only partner. On the first stage I was behind Team Absa teammate Elana Meyer, who won silver at the Barcelona Olympics, when she crashed on a downhill. I picked her up, squirted water on the cut to her elbow that would later require a few stitches, and hugged her as she started to cry. I told her she was OK and that she would be OK. She calmed down and finished. A week after the race she sent me an email thanking me, saying that if I hadn’t comforted her, that may have been the end of her race there and then.

Every morning, Elana would give all of the team a hug. It became a ritual, a good-luck start to the day. At Loursenford, we hugged each other longer and cried.

I thanked Jack for helping me achieve what I thought I couldn’t achieve. “That’s what teammates are for,” he said.

Then you might be ready

When you have realised: it is not just about training harder it is about improving technique and efficiency it is about managing intensity and fatigue from day to day it is about a journey of more than just 8 days, 718km, and 14 850m of climbing

READY

ARE YOU

Find out more at www.polar.fi/za

ONLY SMARTER

YOUR JOURNEY

TJDR 55579

“Building partnerships that conquer”

When the human spirit triumphs, we prosper.

Partnerships that share a common goal have a greater chance of success. So when the nuts and bolts are in place and the terrain calls on you, all you need is the courage, inspiration and willpower to carry each other’s dreams to the end. #ProsperSA

Absa Bank Ltd Reg No 1986/004794/06 Authorised Financial Services Provider Registered Credit Provider Reg No NCRCP7