2012 Absa Cape Epic Ride Guide

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2012 RIDE GUIDE

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FOUNDER MESSAGE

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SPONSOR AND PARTNER MESSAGES

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A word from Kevin Vermaak. Title sponsor Absa and the UCI welcome riders to the ninth edition.

SPONSOR MESSAGE Headline sponsors Telkom and Exxaro.

OFFICIAL CHARITIES JAG and Big Tree foundations reflect on the past year.

MESSAGES FROM THE WESTERN CAPE A showcase of the beautiful host province.

WHO TO WATCH Meet the category contenders.

RACE TECH The eternal debates and what the pros will ride.

EXXARO DEVELOPMENT ACADEMY What our Development Academy Partner strives for.

AMABUBESI The elite club of riders who finished three or more races.

PHOTOGRAPHERS

STRAP STRAP STRAP

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8 days – 1 200 riders

Contents

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PHYSIOLOGY How tough is it really? We compare it to the other big tours.

HOPE AND DREAMS We profile Rwandan sensation Adrien Niyonshuti.

TEAM ABSA Fat to fit and beyond for Absa’s Andre Ross.

NUTRITION Fuel for tomorrow.

TOWNS AND DESTINATIONS Highlights along the route.

THE ROUTE What riders can expect.

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FOLLOW THE RACE

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GRAND FINALE

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FOLLOW THE RIDERS

SuperSport broadcast schedule. The race climax at Lourensford is a great day out for the whole family. If you can’t make it to the event, follow it online.

The dedicated men and women who tell the story.

AMATEUR ZONE It’s not all about the pros. Strategies for your best race.

Editor Jazz Kuschke Contributors Neil Gardiner Copy editors Caleb Eastwood, Sarah Keevy Proofreader Margy Beves-Gibson Advertising Representative Janyne Marais Art Director Leigh Taylor Designers Megan Andrews, Christelle Botha, Yolande Verhoef Production Manager Karen Sands Photographic Contributors Gary Perkin, Greg Beadle, Nick Muzik, Sven Martin, Karin Schermbrucker,

Sportograf, Genia Nowicki, Zoon Cronje Mapping Craig Beech RamsayMedia Custom Publishing Group Publisher Neal Farrell Group Editor Robyn Daly Cape Town Head Office Tel 021-530-3100 Fax 021-530-3197 Uitvlugt 3 Howard Drive Pinelands 7405 PO Box 180 Howard Place 7450 www.ramsaymedia.co.za Printed by CTP Web, Duminy Street Parow

EDITOR’S LETTER “It’s not an eight-day race. It’s a fourmonths-and-eight-day race.” I’m not quite sure whose bit of wisdom this was, but I remember hearing it back in 2009, just before my fi rst Absa Cape Epic. I liked it. Thought it apt ... true. You’re in this thing – committed, head down, legs pistoning for four months. And then those eight days. One day in, after stage one, that brutal stage into Villiersdorp, I realised it wasn’t quite spot on. I knew then it was rather a race of four months, eight days and a lifetime. After getting your finisher’s medal you are never the same person again. To get to Lourensford is to know what it feels like to have given all you thought you had, and then turned the cranks some more. Just to ride the Absa Cape Epic takes a lot of commitment – physical, mental, fi nancial, time... The list is long, so I’mfiercely proud of my two medals. But I’m even more proud of what they’ve taught me – context and perspective. Clichéd for sure, but to see the bigger picture and to know how to identify hidden stresses and pressures and to deal with them before burning out, is priceless. Here’s to seeing an Exxaro team in the top 20 and more than one South African on the podium. The ninth race promises to be yet another one for the record books. Make it a great one, and in the bigger picture words of my Absa Cape Epic partner, Dave Retief, “Keep eating.” Jazz Kuschke Editor 2012 RIDE GUIDE

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WE’VE GOT A LOT RIDING ON THE FUTURE OF OUR COUNTRY’S YOUTH. When it comes to determination, teamwork and sheer willpower, there are few events in the world to rival the Absa Cape Epic mountain bike stage race. But mountain biking is more than just one event. It embodies an ethos which in its sheer physical challenge offers young people the chance not only to embrace a healthy lifestyle, but also to be inspired to build a positive future for themselves and their families. That’s why we at Exxaro have chosen to foster the sport as a catalyst for change, by partnering the Absa Cape Epic, and establishing the Exxaro MTB Academy to introduce mountain biking into historically disadvantaged communities so that individuals can have the chance to shine. In indentifying talented people, screening them, training them and developing them, the Exxaro MTB Academy will be helping the youth of our country to fulfil their dreams, and through those dreams, help rebuild their communities. There may be a mountain to climb but there’s a lot riding on it.

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A word from race founder Kevin Vermaak My team and I are dedicated to constantly improving and evolving our Untamed African Mountainbike Race. And the rider stats for last year’s race show that riders are getting more and more committed too. Last year’s race had the highest-ever fi nisher rate, 88 per cent, despite the course being rated as one of the toughest. Riders are getting better all the time, from the pros to the backmarkers. This is testimony to all the hours, weeks and months of preparation and sacrifi ce. Thanks to each and every rider for taking the Absa Cape Epic so seriously. Our route designer, aka Dr Evil, rates this year’s route as one of the best, but also potentially very tough, so your training will be well rewarded. I believe that in the very near future South Africa will produce our next Burry Stander. Our new headline sponsor, Exxaro, has got behind this vision to develop South Africa’s mountainbiking talent, particularly amongst our historically disadvantaged population. This year’s race will see no less than 14 Exxaro Development Academy teams, comprised of promising young riders who would otherwise not have the resources to enter the Absa Cape Epic, compete for the all-new Exxaro Development Jersey. Craft is the Official Cycling Apparel sponsor of the 2012 Absa Cape Epic. They’ve embraced our new event logo and produced some phenomenal Absa Cape Epic cycling kit and leisure wear. If you’ve not

yet ridden in Craft cycling kit – do yourself a favour and give it a try – you won’t be disappointed. This year we welcome riders from 46 different countries to South Africa. I’m happy that amongst these riders are more professional women mountainbikers than ever before. This is a response to our ladies category race being awarded UCI HC status, which means more prize money and valuable UCI points for our women racers too. Similarly, the Absa African Jersey winners will receive an additional R100 000 in prize money, taking our total prize purse at the 2012 Absa Cape Epic to over R750 000 – the richest purse in the world of endurance mountainbiking. Finishing the Absa Cape Epic can be a life-changing experience. The many hours of sacrifice in training can deliver a reward at Lourensford Wine Estate that is very diffi cult to match. I wish each and every rider a safe journey to Lourensford. 2012 promises to be our best Absa Cape Epic ever – enjoy the full experience and ride safe!

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EPIC FUEL

Energy-boosting bananas are packed with potassium and magnesium, making them great to refuel on after a long day on the bike. Wishing all cyclists a great Epic. See you at all the water points and at the finish line every day.

PROUD SPONSOR OF THE 2012 ABSA CAPE EPIC 4

2012 RIDE GUIDE

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www.cape-epic.com 781 km – 16 300 m

Strive to overcome

On behalf of Absa, it is an honour to welcome you to the 2012 Absa Cape Epic in the beautiful Western Cape. This is our seventh year as the title sponsor of this amazing mountainbike race and we are looking forward to what we believe will be the cycling event of the year. This sponsorship reinforces our commitment to South African sports. We are already the premier sponsor in other key sporting codes, including soccer and rugby – through our sponsorship of the Absa Premiership

This year the riders are in for a great race, as the organisers have launched another super tough route TOUGH BUT REWARDING Each year, mountainbikers from around the world come to the Western Cape of South Africa to compete in the Absa Cape Epic. Over eight days they cover around 800 kilometres through varied terrain and spectacular countryside in what is an extremely tough but rewarding physical experience. While some are aiming for a place on the final victory podium, many more just want to make it to the fi nish on the last day. And that is the beauty of the ABSA Cape Epic. During one week, amateurs rub shoulders with the world’s elite, riding the same course, climbing the same mountains and facing the same conditions. Organising a stage race such as this is no easy task, but the professionalism, dedication and sheer hard work of the organising team have made the ABSA Cape Epic what it is today. I would like to take this opportunity to thank them, as well as the volunteers, authorities and sponsors who all have an important part to play in the organisation of this adventure. Finally, I wish all the very best to the athletes who will embark on the 2012 edition of South Africa’s momentous challenge: the Absa Cape Epic.

(Premier Soccer League) and co-sponsorship of Bafana Bafana – as well as the Absa Currie Cup, and our recent announcement as team sponsor of the Springboks. Our partnership with the Cape Epic allows us to further contribute towards sport in South Africa. As the title sponsor, we are involved on many levels: from ensuring that the race is a success for both spectators and riders, to our hospitality where the comfort of our valued clients and the riders is our first priority. This year the riders are in for a great race, as the organisers have launched another super tough route. At Absa we strive for excellence and therefore believe that all challenges can be overcome. This is why we feel that the Absa Cape Epic is an ideal partnership, representing the kind of courage and determination needed to be the best at what we do. Watching 1200 cyclists compete in two-person teams also shows the importance of teamwork – a strong value that we insititutionalise across our Absa business units, some of which are involved in contributing to the success of this event. Absa Capital will also be hosting the Absa Capital Lounge where all Absa cyclists can relax and “catch their breath” at the end of each stage. Absa Business Bank and Absa Private Bank have invited, and are hosting, a number of clients who are participating in the race, whilst Absa Home Loans are showcasing their home loans offering to cyclists at the Absa Cape Epic rider tents and mobile homes. Absa is proud to be involved with the Cape Epic and our sponsorship is an endorsement of our endeavor to make a meaningful contribution towards the South African cycling world. All the best to the riders! And in the wise words of world champion heavyweight boxer, Jack Dempsey, the Manassa Mauler “A champion is someone who gets up, even when he can’t.”

PAT MCQUAID

HAPPY NTSHINGILA

UCI PRESIDENT

ABSA CHIEF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION OFFICER 2012 RIDE GUIDE

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8 days – 1 200 riders

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A catalyst for change

Waiting at the 2011 Grand Finale for three Exxaro teams to fi nish their self-imposed task – raising R1,5 million for charity – I was struck by two things… The first, that I was witnessing one of the greatest concentrations of determination, teamwork and sheer willpower of any event in the world. The second, that every one of these 1 200 athletes was a role model. That started a chain of events culminating in Exxaro becoming the offi cial development academy partner to the Absa Cape Epic forfi ve years (to 2016) and establishing the Exxaro Mountainbiking Academy to introduce mountainbiking to historically disadvantaged communities and individuals, and assist in transforming the sport in South Africa. Through the academy, and with executive commitment, we will source, train and develop athletes from previously disadvantaged communities in mountainbiking. Talented individuals will be identified through competitions and screening processes at Exxaro’s business units and via academy bursary opportunities.

The primary objective of the Exxaro Mountainbiking Academy is to increase the number of previously disadvantaged riders in mountainbiking, creating a catalyst for change in communities by giving young people a healthy alternative – sport versus substance abuse. Equally, by using sport and a healthy lifestyle to improve quality of life, we aim to inspire young adults to build a positive future for themselves and their families, helping them to create an environment to fulfil their dreams and rebuild their communities. To the 2012 competitors, do your best – you are building the dreams of young people watching. Sipho Nkosi

Teamwork and partnership If ever an event had an appropriate name, it is the Absa Cape Epic. From the heroism of the riders to the magnifi cence of the landscape; from the number of competitors to the quality and scope of the behind-the-scenes activity, the Absa Cape Epic has established itself as an iconic endurance event. While the race is synonymous with endurance, it also has a unique component that differentiates it from similar events – teamwork and partnership. The race is not about “I”, but about “us”, two people joined by a common objective. Telkom Business identifies with this philosophy and is a word-anddeed proponent of the importance of partnerships to achieve results. Our track record speaks for itself. We have partnered with all kinds of businesses to build communication solutions that help them achieve their potential. Telkom Business has now extended its partnership approach to the Absa Cape Epic. As the offi cial communications partner of the event our goal is to once again provide world-class communications services

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so that spectators, media, crew, offi cials and, of course, riders may experience a truly epic event. We wish all competitors only the very best. As they say in Afrikaans: “vasbyt!” Dr Brian Armstrong Senior Managing Executive for Enterprise Markets Telkom Business

2012 RIDE GUIDE

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Pietie October* wants to be a teacher when he grows up. He goes to school in Robertson every day, listens carefully to the lessons, works hard on his assignments and is sure to give his teacher his full attention. After all, he knows he’ll be one too someday. But six months ago, Pietie refused to even walk into a classroom. There was only one thing that could overcome his desire to learn and fulfil a lifetime ambition – embarrassment. He was ashamed of the clothes he wore, that the other children would tease him for wearing the same dirty, ripped shirt, day in and day out. So he stayed home. Pietie’s story is far from unique. Thousands of children live in such abject poverty, that many can only dream of wearing a clean white shirt. Visiting the regions that the Absa Cape Epic visits, Victor Sables (Managing Director of the race’s official charity Big Tree Foundation) hears the stories of the children who live there. With the foundation’s primary

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philosophy based on education, inspired by a quote from Nelson Mandela “Education is the key…”, Sables was so moved, that he initiated a uniform programme, naming it Dress4Success, adding another dimension to his highly successful operation. By buying one of his T-shirts (R180) the owner contributes enough money to buy a child an entire uniform. Recently, 127 uniforms were handed out in what turned out to be a heart-rending occasion. “These are kids who have never owned a jersey in their lives. One child was shaking when she held her shirt. Another tried on a pair of shoes that were too small, but refused to take them off till she had another pair tucked safely under her arm.” Sables tells another story of a boy who pulled some shoes onto his bare feet. He was puzzled when the teacher pointed at the ball of socks he was holding. He had no idea what they were for.

Since its inception the Absa Cape Epic has always aimed to give back to the communities that the race touches. After the Section 21 company was formed, the event’s charity has evolved hugely. It first began with the handing out of bikes to various community leaders, who then distributed them to those in need. Focusing on the education theme, Sables began a scheme whereby books and desks were provided to schools that had little more than a roof and four walls. That developed into a programme, opening the pre-school Sibabalwe, where caregivers were trained to teach pre-school children and basic first aid, and who then started a formally structured pre-school with proper classes. Based on this model, more schools are being built to prepare learners for Grade 1. If you would like to enter a 2013 charity team, please contact Victor Sables at victor@bigtree.org.za. *Not his real name.

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MESSAGE FROM THE WESTERN CAPE

HOST DESTINATION HOST CITY

It is my pleasure to welcome to our province all participants in the ninth Absa Cape Epic. The race will see 1 200 cyclists compete in this unique mountainbike stage race from Meerendal Wine Estate to the traditional fi nish at Lourensford. We consider it a privilege for the Western Cape to host this event, the premier event of its kind in the world, as it is encouraging to us in our efforts to position the province as a desirable destination for sports tourism. The race has helped boost the Western Cape’s profile as a sporting arena, with challenging and spectacular cycling routes, for hosting world-class competitions, also allowing visitors the chance to enjoy the highlights of our beautiful city and province. The display of sportsmanship in the eight-day race over 781 kilometres, combined with the surrounds of the natural scenery are a legacy we want to build and share with visitors who come from other parts of South Africa and around the world. 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 and life-transforming role in young people’s lives and the example of the cyclists provides role models for our youth. I hope the 2012 event is a success yet again.

The City of Cape Town is proud to be associated with the 2012 Absa Cape Epic. We are committed to building an inclusive city, a city that develops sustainably into the future. As we face new global challenges, we have to adapt to new behaviours and new types of urban living. In many ways, that sees a move away from the practices of the past to eco-friendly pursuits that promote a healthy environment and healthy lifestyles. To do so, we must make use of all the resources at our disposal. We are privileged to live in one of the most beautiful parts of the world and everything we do should be geared towards a celebration of our natural environment. The Absa Cape Epic does all that and more. In many ways, it is the celebration of excellence and endurance, a symbol of the highest level of competition among individuals driven to succeed. We celebrate them all, both those who push the limits in the race itself and the many others who are brought together by the experience. We welcome you all to Cape Town and thank you for helping us make this city one that is rich in adventure and challenges.

A warm welcome from Cape Town Routes Unlimited. The Absa Cape Epic is a celebration of Cape Town and the Western Cape’s popular blend of natural splendour and outdoor extremes, and creates a unique way to explore the Western Cape – from gorgeous valleys, spectacular mountains and rare fynbos, to wild animals, remote scenery and historic treasures. The adrenaline-inducing route takes you on a journey from Cape Town to the picturesque Robertson valley, offering fi ne Cape wines and mouth-watering gourmet experiences as you meander through the Cape Overberg. Cape Town Routes Unlimited, the offi cial Destination Marketing Organisation for Cape Town and the Western Cape extends a warm welcome to all the participants and spectators of this exciting race, as they discover the hidden gems which lie along this spectacular route. We encourage visitors to learn more about the destination by visiting www.tourismcapetown.co.za.

CALVYN GILFELLAN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

PATRICIA DE LILLE MAYOR OF CAPE TOWN

HELEN ZILLE PREMIER OF THE WESTERN CAPE

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2012 RIDE GUIDE

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Gear for an Epic Adventure

BANDANA / R160 É? Moisture managing micro fibre fabric É? Thermal properties for warmth É? “Stitch Freeâ€? manufacturing process for added comfort

H14 HEADLAMP / R699 É? É? É? É?

Output of 200 lumen 104 hours runtime 280m beam distance Advanced focus system

MEN’S STRAUSS CREWNECK FLEECE / R250 É? Ultra lightweight at 165g É? One-sided brushed and anti-pill fleece fabric É? Moisture wicking finish moves moisture away from the body

EDGE 500 GPS / R3499

É? É? É? É?

Polar 24 oz (709ml) Insulated Bottle / R130 Laken Futura 1L Bottle / R160 Platypus 0.5L SoftBottle / R120 Nalgene Multi-drink 560ml Bottle / R150

É? Highly breathable mesh shoulder straps with anti-chafe pads É? Capacity of 8 litres É? Airstripes back system

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É? Garmin Connect™ and Garmin Training CenterÂŽ compatible É? Water resistant (IPX7) É? Heart rate monitor É? Bike speed/cadence sensor

COMPACT EXP 8 RACING BACKPACK / R599 STREAMER 3L BLADDER / R299

MEN’S XA PRO 3D ULTRA 2 GTX SHOES / R1650 CHAMONIX ECO 850 SLEEPING BAG / R599 É? É? É? É?

Comfort rating of 9ËšC to 15ËšC Dimensions of 225x80x50 cm Weight of 850g Durable Ripstop Nylon outer fabric

É? 3D advanced chassis™ É? Quicklace™ and asymmetrical lacing É? Mud guard and protective rubber toe cap É? GORE-TEXÂŽ extended comfort footwear membrane

Shop online at ^^^ JHWL\UPVUTHY[ JV aH or call . Stores nationwide.

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WHO TO WATCH

Who to watch

THE TEAMS LIKELY TO CONTEND FOR THE PODIUM MEN'S CATEGORY

The yellow jersey at the Absa Cape Epic signifies the leading team in the men’s catagory – stage times are added up and the team with the fastest accumulated time at the end of each day gets to wear it. Appropriately, one of the world’s leading sportswear manufacturers, Craft, is supplying the leaders’ jerseys. In addition, riders will be competing for the biggest prize purse in Absa Cape Epic history. With Olympic medallists and current and former world champions lining up, expect fl at-out racing.

36ONE-SONGO-SPECIALIZED In 2011, the Swiss/South African pair broke their three-year curse at the Absa Cape Epic. They dominated from the fi rst time-check in the prologue to the crowds awaiting them in the Cape

Winelands. Former under-23 World Cross-country Champion Burry Stander and Olympic medallist and former World Cross-country champion, Christoph Sauser are surely the race favourites.

Christoph Sauser 1-1

Burry Stander 1-2

t Date of birth: 13/04/1976

t Date of birth: 16/09/1987

t Vitals: 68 kg/1,81 m t Resting hr: 35 bpm

t Vitals: 64 kg/174 cm t Resting hr: 36 bpm

t Absa Cape Epic history: Debut: 2005, Races entered:

t Absa Cape Epic history: Debut: 2008,

8, 2005 (2*) 2nd overall, 2006 (1, 2, 3, 7, 8*) 1st overall,

Races entered: 5, 2008 (1*), 2009 (P, 1, 2, 3, 5*), 2010 (3,

2008 (1*), 2009 (P, 1, 2, 3, 5*), 2010 (3, 4, 5*) 2nd

4, 5*) 2nd overall, 2011 (P, 1, 2, 4, 5*) 1st overall t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: Win overall and make

overall, 2011 (P, 1, 2, 4, 5*) 1st overall SWITZERLAND

t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: Defending our title.

SOUTH AFRICA

Christoph suffer.

BULLS Team Bulls has won more Absa Cape Epics than any other team. They’re stage-race specialists and master tacticians, winning the Trans Alp Challenge, Trans Germany and a long list of others. They’re the best of friends and stick together through the rough and the smooth. It’s this bond that gives the Bulls the edge. But 2011’s race didn’t go

as planned for the Germans. Although they finished a creditable third overall, Sahm was a shadow of his former superb self. Tests revealed a thrombosis under his knee. With that treated, they’ll be out to prove a point in 2012.

Karl Platt 2-1

Stefan Sahm 2-2

t Date of birth: 14/03/1978

t Date of birth: 24/08/1976

t Vitals: 70 kg/180 cm t Resting hr: 44 bpm

t Vitals: 68 kg/179 cm t Resting hr: 37 bpm

Absa Cape Epic history: Debut: 2003, Races entered: 8,

t Absa Cape Epic history: Debut: 2007,

2004 (1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8*), 1st overall, 2006 (3*), 3rd overall,

Races entered: 6, 2007 (1*) 1st overall, 2008 (5, 8*) 2nd

2007 (1*),1st overall, 2008 (5, 8*), 2nd overall,2009 (4*),

overall, 2009 (4*) 1st overall, 2010 1st overall, 2011

1st overall, 2010 1st overall, 2011 3rd overall

GERMANY

t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: Fuuulllgaaaz!

3rd overall

GERMANY

t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: Have fun and win.

360LIFE Evans and George are the nation’s best hope for an all-South African victory. They were third overall in 2008, with stage victories at the prologue in Pezula and Hermanus. George is a Commonwealth Games silver medallist, four-time Giro del Capo winner, multiple South African time-trial champion and last year’s National Marathon Series titleholder.

Evans is a multiple South African Marathon Champion and has fi nished third three times at the Absa Cape Epic. But he’d prefer to forget his misfortunes of 2011, crashing 25 kilometres into stage one due to brake failure, breaking his collarbone. For this team’s 2012 season, it’s all about the Absa Cape Epic. *denotes stages won

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2012 RIDE GUIDE

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WHO TO WATCH

SOUTH AFRICA

Kevin Evans 3-1

David George 3-2

t Date of birth: 06/06/1978

t Date of birth: 23/02/1976

t Vitals: 62,5 kg/171 cm t Resting hr: 38 bpm

t Vitals: 62 kg/176 cm t Resting hr: 48bpm

t Absa Cape Epic history: Debut: 2004,Races entered:

t Absa Cape Epic history: Debut: 2007,

9, 2005 3rd overall, 2007 Absa African Winner, 2008 (P,

Races entered: 6, 2008 (P, 6*) 3rd overall

6*) 3rd overall, 2009 Absa African Winner, 2010 (1*) 3rd

2009 Absa African Winner, 2009 4th overall

overallt 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: First all-South

t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: In it to win it.

African team to stand on top step.

SOUTH AFRICA

MULTIVAN MERIDA BIKING Genze partnered with Jochen Kaess proved to be an effective combination in 2011, fully deserving their spot on the second step of the podium in Lourensford and a stage win in Worcester. Swiss champion Kugler played no small part in that victory, riding in

support of the German pair bearing the same sponsor names on their jerseys. With Kugler’s abundant natural talent and Genze’s hard-earned experience, these two will be regulars on the stage podium at the evening ceremonies.

Hannes Genze 4-1

Andreas Kugler 4-2

t Date of birth: 16/11/1981

t Date of birth: 06/08/1979

t Vitals: 73 kg/178 cm t Resting hr: 37 bpm

t Vitals: 70 kg/183 cm t Resting hr: 40 bpm

t Absa Cape Epic history: Debut: 2008,

t Absa Cape Epic history: Debut: 2009, Races entered:

Races entered: 5, 2009 3rd overall, 2011 2nd overall

4, 2009 3rd overall

t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: Podium overall

2011 2nd overall t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: I deam of victory.

and stage win.

GERMANY

SWITZERLAND

Podium would be nice.

TOPEAK-ERGON RACING TEAM Lakata bears the rainbow stripes of a former world championship victory on his sleeve. The Austrian strongman has three Absa Cape Epic finishes under his belt. A low-key performance in 2007 saw him fifth. Teamed with Bart Brentjens in 2008, he hung on for dear life for the stage into

Swellendam. With Kevin Evans, he won stage one and held the race lead till a disastrous wheel incident cost them their leader’s jerseys. Mennen was third in the 2011 German National Championships; but as an Absa Cape Epic rookie, he's in for a steep learning curve.

Alban Lakata 5-1

Robert Mennen 5-2

t Date of birth: 25/06/1979

t Date of birth: 05/04/1985

t Vitals: 78 kg/184 cm t Resting hr: 38 bpm

t Vitals: 70 kg/180 cm t Resting hr: 46 bpm

t Absa Cape Epic history: Debut: 2007, Races entered:

t Absa Cape Epic history: Debut: 2012

5, 2008 (4*), 2010 (1*) 3rd overall

t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: To finish top three

t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: Stage win and top

on one stage one.

five overall.

AUSTRIA

GERMANY

STÖCKLI PRO TEAM The surprise team of 2011’s race, this Swiss pair was up at the head of affairs all week, till Looser upended himself on the Groenlandberg descent towards Oak Valley, forcing him to walk home carrying a broken frame. Huber loves hard stage races, having previously won the

Crocodile Trophy and young protégé Looser is a willing and capable lieutenant. Add a year of experience to that mix and we have some real contenders, not just for the podium, but for the yellow jersey too.

Urs Huber 7-1

Konny Looser 7-2

t Date of birth: 12/08/1985

t Date of birth: 06/03/1989

t Vitals: 70 kg/184 cm t Resting hr: 36 bpm

t Vitals: 65 kg/178 cm t Resting hr: 45 bpm

t Absa Cape Epic history: Debut: 2009,

t Absa Cape Epic history: Debut: 2011,

Races entered: 3

Races entered: 2

t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: At least one

t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: Podium overall.

stage win and overall podium. SWITZERLAND

SWITZERLAND *denotes stages won

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WHO TO WATCH

MASTERS' CATEGORY SPONSORED BY TELKOM BUSINESS The race for the Telkom Business blue masters’ jersey will surely be one of the most hotly contended categories. To be eligible, both riders have to be 40 years or older in the year the event takes place. In the past, former Masters World Champions, Giro del Capo winners and Tour de France riders have fought it out, sometimes right to the line at Lourensford. Can favourites team Brentjens Giant of 1996 Olympic gold medallist and former race winner Bart Brentjens and former pro mountainbiker Jan Weevers hold off a charging field of superb 40-plussers? Most likely, but prepare for a monumental battle.

BRENTJENS GIANT Double Olympic medallist and former World Cross-country Champion Brentjens is a legend of the sport, with many of his competitors idolising him in their boyhood years. His announcement that he’d race as a master sent shivers down the spines of riders who thought they had a shot at wearing the coveted leader’s jerseys. Rivals and

teammates alike have suffered Brentjens’ relentless desire for victories. In six starts he's never ridden with the same partner twice. Despite his list of impressive results, Jan Weevers will still be mentally preparing himself for a week of pain.

Bart Brentjens 60-1

Jan Weevers 60-2

t Date of birth: 10/10/1968

t Date of birth: 20/05/1965

t Vitals: 79 kg/186 cm t Resting hr: 36 bpm

t Vitals: 77 kg/186 cm t Resting hr: 40 bpm

t Absa Cape Epic history: Debut: 2005, Races entered:

t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions:

6, 2005 (1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8*) 1st overall, 2007 (5, 7*) 3rd

Absa Cape Epic leader jersey in

overall, 2008 (4*) , 2009 (6*) 2nd overall, 2010 (2*)

master class.

2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: Winning a stage and

NETHERLANDS

winning the masters’ category.

NETHERLANDS

CYCLE LAB TOYOTA McLean’s list of victories is long, both as a pro-level road racer and as a masters’ category mountainbiker. Wilson’s best results are right here at this race, climbing on the final podium in 2004 and winning three stages before moving to the masters’ category. He lives for the Epic.

In 2011, contrary to medical advice, he continued his campaign after fracturing his ribs and collarbone in a serious fall. As the most fiercely competitive riders in the race, they’ll fi ght to the bitter end.

Shan Wilson 61-1

Andrew McLean 61-2

t Date of birth: 15/09/1967

t Date of birth: 03/10/1964

t Vitals: 67 kg/176 cm t Resting hr: 34 bpm

t Vitals: 65 kg/174 cm t Resting hr: 34 bpm

t Absa Cape Epic history: Debut: 2004, RacesEntered: 9,

t Absa Cape Epic history: Debut: 2007, Races entered:

2004 Mens (5*) 3rd overall, 2006 (5*), 2008 (4,6,8*) 2nd

6, 2007 (1, 2, 6, 7*) 1st overall masters, 2009 (P, 3, 4, 5,

overall masters, 2009 (P, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7*) 2nd overallmasters,

6, 7*) 2nd overall masters, 2010 (1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8*) 1st

2010 (1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8*) 1st overall masters t 2012 Absa

SOUTH AFRICA

t Cape Epic ambitions: Win the masters’ category.

overall masters. t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: A

SOUTH AFRICA

podium position overall.

ROBERT DANIEL MOMSEN As an antithesis of McLean and Wilson’s intensity, Pfi tzenmaier and Sim’s quiet yet deeply centred demeanours reveal little of their burning desire to win. Health guru and yogi, Pfi tzenmaier has won the mixed

category twice and clothing honcho Sim stood on the podium in 2011 with Doug Brown. They’ll go about their business like highly trained assassins: silent, but deadly effective.

Rob Sim 62-2 Nico Pfitzenmaier 62-1

t Date of birth: 07/06/1966

t Date of birth: 07/06/1971

t Vitals: 67 kg/177 cm t Resting hr: 42 bpm

t Vitals: 70 kg/185 cm t Resting hr: 42 bpm

t Absa Cape Epic history: Second overall masters

t Absa Cape Epic history: Two-time mixed winner

t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: Win the masters’

t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: Having lots of

category.

fun with my partner Rob and enjoy this great event!

GERMANY

GERMANY *denotes stages won

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WHO TO WATCH

LADIES’ CATEGORY This is the first year in this category that UCI points are awarded for the top ladies team in the race. In an Olympic year, this has proved to be a major drawcard for some of the world's top international and local riders. Plus, there’s an increase in prize money to ensure a highly competitive field come race week. The winning duo from 2011 is here, except on different teams and each with a point to prove.

WHEELER/TOPEAK ERGON From vastly contrasting athletic backgrounds, Süss started cycling in 1998 and was crowned World Marathon Champion several years later. Bigham began her elite mountainbiking career late, albeit part time and within two years she was the British National Champion. Both won

their categories in the 2011 Absa Cape Epic (Bigham in the ladies and Süss in the mixed) so they’re the out-and-out race favourites with their considerable efforts pooled in 2012.

Sally Bigham 50-1

Esther Süss 50-2

t Date of birth: 11/04/1978

t Date of birth: 19/03/1974

t Vitals: 53 kg/168 cm t Resting hr: 40 bpm

t Vitals: 55 kg/1,67 m t Resting hr: 39 bpm

t Absa Cape Epic history: Debut: 2010, Races entered:

t Absa Cape Epic History: Debut: 2009, Races entered:

3, 2010 3rd overall mixed t 2011 (3*) 1st overall ladies

4, 2009 2nd overall mixed, 2010 (1, 4, 5*) 2nd overall

t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: To have as much

Mixed, 2011 (P, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6*) 1st overall mixed t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: To win the ladies’

fun as possible, build a great partnership and race hard.

ENGLAND

SWITZERLAND

category.

MTN QHUBEKA / FISCHER-BMC Last year’s winner Van Jaarsveld pulled on the rust-coloured jerseys while riding with Bigham after the leading team Colnago Arreghini Südtirol was penalised for taking outside assistance. A solid performance saw them hold their lead all the way to the end. Nussli

also posted decent results in 2011, finishing second at Roc d’Azur. Nussli and Van Jaarsveld know rival Bigham’s capabilities well, which could count in their favour when the chips are down.

Karien van Jaarsveld 51-1

Jane Nussli 51-2

t Date of birth: 08/07/1981

t Date of birth: 27/08/1977

t Vitals: 58 kg/163 cm t Resting hr: 50 bpm

t Vitals: 58 kg/185 cm t Resting hr: 45 bpm

t Absa Cape Epic History: Debut: 2011,Races entered:

t Absa Cape Epic History: Debut: 2012,

2, 2011 (3) 1st overall ladies

t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: To have a fantastic

t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: Building a new

time with the team and an overall podium.

partnership and defending 2011 title.

SWITZERLAND

SOUTH AFRICA

KTM-STIHL-3 VALLI BIASCA Pezzatti and Klomp may not be able to match the favourites’ results sheet (apart from Klomp winning all five IronBikes), but should any of

the contenders falter, the Swiss/Italian combination will be there to capitalise. They’ll surely walk onto a podium stage during race week.

Sofia Pezzatti 52-1

Sandra Klomp 52-2

t Date of birth: 26/03/1977

t Date of birth: 29/07/1964

t Vitals: 52 kg/169 cm t Resting hr: 44 bpm

t Vitals: 56 kg/164 cm t Resting hr: 50 bpm

t Absa Cape Epic history: Debut: 2012

t Absa Cape Epic history: Debut: 2012

t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: è la mia PRIMA

t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: Inspire all the

gara a tappe ... ci lasciamo soprendere!

cycling women around the world especially if there are mothers!

SWITZERLAND

ITALY

*denotes stages won

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WHO TO WATCH

MIXED CATEGORY The male/female team combination adds a different dynamic to racing the Absa Cape Epic, given their physiological differences. As is often the case (but not always), the partnership is likely not to be as evenly matched as in other categories. A successful team's strategy is centred around compensating for a partner’s weaknesses, while capitalising on their strengths. The stronger partner must judge the other’s effort level through good communication and accurately reading their body language.

CENTURION VAUDE Boelts knows all about helping a teammate across the line each day on a stage race, having stewarded a youthful Jan Ullrich to a Tour de France victory in 1997. His passion for cycling hasn’t died. While many pros hang up their bikes for good, he’s savoured his retirement on

the mountainbike, riding fi ve Absa Cape Epics, and winning two in the masters’ category. He’s teamed with the current Swiss marathon champion, and they’re the favourites on paper.

Udo Boelts 71-1

Milena Landtwing 71-2

t Date of birth: 10/08/1966

t Date of birth: 28/03/1981

t Vitals: 71 kg/179 cm t Resting hr: 41 bpm

t Vitals: 59 kg/176 cm t Resting hr: 45 bpm

t Absa Cape Epic History: Debut: 2008

t Absa Cape Epic History: Debut: 2012

Races entered: 5, 2011 (P, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7*) 1st

t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: Top three overall.

overall masters t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: To win the mixed

GERMANY

category.

SWITZERLAND

CONTEGO The husband-and-wife combination makes for that all-important X-factor of teamwork, which has often proven to be a race decider. Erik knows Ariane’s fatigue levels almost telepathically and they’re able to measure their output perfectly. Erik is a former South African

Cross-country Champion and Ariane a winner of several marathons in her new home country. They’ll ride their own race, careful not to get caught up in the excitement and spend unnecessary energy. Expect to see them high up on the leader board.

Erik Kleinhans 70-1

Ariane Kleinhans 70-2

t Date of birth: 04/05/1982

t Date of birth: 08/10/1983

t Vitals: 73 kg/184 cm t Resting hr: 38 bpm

t Vitals: 61 kg/175 cm t Resting hr: 38 bpm

t Absa Cape Epic History: Debut: 2007

t Absa Cape Epic history: Debut: 2011

Races entered: 5, 2011 (7*) 2nd overall mixed

Races entered: 2, 2011 (7*) 2nd overall mixed

t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: We would love to

t 2012 Absa Cape Epic ambitions: To win the mixed

have plenty of fun and also wouldn’t mind winning the

SOUTH AFRICA

18

mixed category.

category.

SWITZERLAND

ABSA AFRICAN JERSEY

EXXARO DEVELOPMENT JERSEY

The Absa African jersey is awarded to the highest-placed team with both members holding African nationalities, regardless of their entered category. Team 360Life are likely to be wearing the red Absa African jerseys on the final podium in Lourensford, with rising talent of Jacques Janse van Rensburg and Rwandan sensation Adrien Niyonshuti of Team MTN Qhubeka in with a chance too. But don’t discount former South African Cross-country Champions Brandon Stewart and Jacques Rossouw of Team FedGroup/Itec-Connect.

As the Development Academy Partner to the Absa Cape Epic, the Exxaro Academy was created to assist historically disadvantaged South African development riders prepare for and participate in the Absa Cape Epic. A South African team, of which both members are historically disadvantaged, may compete for the jersey, provided both are under 26-years old on 31 December of the year in which the race takes place.

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781 km – 16 300 m

www.cape-epic.com

Race Tech

WHAT THE PROS ARE RIDING

THE ETERNAL DEBATES

36ONE-SONGO-SPECIALIZED

HYDRATION PACKS VS BOTTLES

As the team name implies, Sauser and Stander will be on Specialized bikes, the 2012 29er S-Works Epics. The patented active dualsuspension system certainly played a role in their 2011 victory, saving their legs with extra traction on the ups and their bodies on the downs. Details include elliptical chainrings and titanium bolt kits.

As the field passes by, you’ll notice almost all the back-enders wearing hydration packs and a complete absence of them with the pros. While having the space to store up to three litres of water, food and tools is hugely convenient, it has some serious disadvantages if you're a pro and speed is your number one priority. The pros take half the time travelling from waterpoint to waterpoint, so carrying more than 1,5 litres is unnecessary. Plus they take longer to fill, compared to a quick bottle swap. The average fi lled bag weighs four kilograms, which is enough to seriously affect a rider’s weight distribution and then there are the sponsor names on the riders’ backs. Much of the footage is captured from the air and a pack covers prime branding real estate.

Christoph Sauser and Burry Stander

360LIFE

Kevin Evans and David George Evans and George have both learned the hard way that light equipment is no use to them while standing at the side of the trail trying to repair it. They’ll be aboard their sub-10-kilogram Scott Spark RC 29er carbon dual-suspension bikes, hoping for the same advantages that helped Stander and Sauser to their 2011 win. Carbonrimmed wheels complete the package.

BULLS

Karl Platt and Stefan Sahm Team Bulls know that reliability wins this race – speed just ensures you’re there when the thick brown stuff hits the fan. Although they have a 29er dual suspension in development, Bulls Bikes’ policy states that their race bikes must be available commercially, so they’ll ride 29er hardtails. Platt and Sahm’s policy on racing: tried and tested equipment only.

STÖCKLI PRO

Urs Huber and Konny Looser Looser’s crash on Groenlandberg crushed the downtube of his carbon Stöckli 29er hardtail frame. After a long walk back, the mechanic squirreled it away from the prying cameras. They’ll be on the same radically swoopy prototype frames for 2012, specced with Shimano’s XTR uber parts, with a 2x10 speed drivetrain setup and carbon wheels.

MULTIVAN MERIDA

Hannes Genze and Andreas Kugler German-designed Merida bikes are all business. Being one of the lightest hardtail 29er frames in the game, Genze and Kugler will be happy in the knowledge they’re not carrying any unnecessary weight up the steep climbs. Although their frames are incredibly stiff for optimum power transfer, clever carbon layups allow for some built in compliance.

20

Why don’t the pros use packs?

26-INCH VS 29-INCH

Is there a real advantage to the larger wheel format? Before the 29er movement, we survived eight days of racing just fi ne on 26ers. Many still do. That said, there are some real advantages to the new format. Larger wheels grip better, improving cornering and climbing on loose surfaces. A better approach angle allows the wheel to roll over obstacles more effi ciently and the bigger diameter makes for more stability and momentum. Don't for a moment think the 26er will fade into the sunset however – it remains the discerning choice for tight, whippy riding on technical singletrack.

HARDTAIL VS DUAL SUSPENSION

Why do some pros ride 29er hardtails and others 29er dual-suspension bikes? The advantages of a dual-suspension bike are clearest when you ride one over rough terrain over eight days. They cushion your body from the blows of the downs and offer better traction on the ups. First prize then is a dual suspension 29er but, until recently, top-level athletes deemed the oversized wheels suitable only on racy hardtails, with the extra weight and longer wheelbase leaving the fully suspended versions sluggish. But after a few years of evolution, their unwieldy nature has been fixed with improved linkage systems and weight-saving tricks.

Motorex is a fully biodegradable product

FAST FACT

2012 RIDE GUIDE

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',6&+(0 %,2*(1

SPEED FREAK WORLD CHAMP CHRISTOPH SAUSER KNOWS ONE SPEED-FAST; AND THE MORE HE RIDES HIS EPIC 29ER THE FASTER HE GETS. ALREADY KNOWN AS THE WORLD'S BEST XC BIKE-WITH THE EFFICIENCY OF INDEPENDENT, ACTIVE FSR SUSPENSION AND BRAIN TECHNOLOGY-SPECIALIZED 29ERS OFFER THE BEST POWER TRANSFER, DIALED GEOMETRIES, AND LIGHTEST WEIGHTS. GET YOUR SPEED FIX AT A LOCAL SPECIALIZED DEALER. LEARN MORE AT SPECIALIZED.COM

7(&+1,&$/ )($785( LQGG

$0

www.cape-epic.com

8 days – 1 200 riders

STRAP STRAP STRAP

22

Exxaro Development Academy

2012 RIDE GUIDE

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www.cape-epic.com

STRAP STRAP STRAP

“That a kid from one of Exxaro’s rural mining communities would participate in – and one day even win – the Epic,” was the wish expressed by Exxaro CEO Sipho Nkosi at the 2011 Grand Finale at Lourensford. That’s how the idea was born for mining conglomerate Exxaro to become involved in the Absa Cape Epic. Now, as the Development Academy Partner to the Absa Cape Epic, Exxaro has created the academy to introduce the mountainbiking experience to historically disadvantaged communities and individuals and ultimately assist in transforming the sport in South Africa. A major goal is also to assist historically disadvantaged South African riders to participate in the Absa Cape Epic.

Exxaro has committed to being the official Development Academy Partner to the Absa Cape Epic for five years If successful with this vision, Exxaro will be associated with removing the elitist tag often associated with mountainbiking in South Africa, exposing millions to the healthy outdoor benefi ts of the sport and taking it to rural communities. In order for this trickle-down effect to happen, Exxaro has committed to being the offi cial Development Academy Partner to the Absa Cape Epic for fi ve years (2012 to 2016) and this year, 14 sponsored team entries are allocated. Various riders were selected to ride the Sabi Experience in December 2011, for their fi rst taste of stage racing, while others had to qualify to join the official development training camp in January. This was done through three regional races during November (in some of the areas

781 km – 16 300 m

The Exxaro Development Academy was created to increase the number of Absa Cape Epic finishers from historically disadvantaged backgrounds. This year, 14 sponsored team entries are allocated, with some being corporate while the others will be competing for the Exxaro Development Jersey.

where the mine operates). Three teams were also selected through the Exxaro Academy bursary scheme managed by the Absa Cape Epic organisers and advertised on the Absa Cape Epic website. Justice Makhale, who has been racing as a professional for nine years is Exxaro’s number-one rider and has been acting as a mentor to the riders in the academy. “I’m very excited for the Absa Cape Epic; very excited to race in front of my home crowd,” says Makhale, who will line up for his first Absa Cape Epic this year, but he has completed the Trans-Alps in Germany. He’s under no illusions about the challenge though. “I will have to look after my partner. I need to use my experience to help him through,” says Makhale who will team up with the most promising rider from the academy, but they won't be eligible for the jersey as Makhale is a pro and falls outside the age limit. Makhale will also share his race knowledge with the other Exxaro teams during the race (something he’s been doing since the Sabi Experience). “Each day we’ll have a meeting and tell the guys what they must do and mustn’t do – how to look after themselves and look after their bikes. That’s very important – not just riding the bike but how they must also take care of it, so it will get them to the fi nish.” Makhale's goal is to help guide one of the Exxaro teams into the Exxaro Development Jersey. To take it back to our company, our home,” he says. They are likely to have some tough competition from some of the other development teams however. Look out for the Exxaro riders in their green kit. And, look out for them on the leader board.

2012 RIDE GUIDE 23

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30

THE GREENHOUSE

8 days – 1 200 riders

Amabubesi

www.cape-epic.com

Getting one finisher’s medal is a massive achievement. Show respect to the Absa Cape Epic Finishers’ Club whose members each have more than three.

“The toughness, the beauty, the route and the greatness...” says Bonny Swanepoel of what lures her back every year. Bonny is one of only 12 riders to have completed every Absa Cape Epic. Her goal for 2012 is “to receive my ninth Epic medal – no one can take this for granted”, she says, adding that she intends to do 10 in a row. You don’t quite have to go that far to become a member of the Amabubesi – The Absa Cape Epic Finishers’ Club. It’s isiZulu for “pack of lions” and a more apt description for these determined riders doesn’t exist. Members are rewarded on a tier system in relation to how many races they’ve completed, the highest prize on this system is of course a Left to right: Adele Tait, editor of Ride magazine with Bonny Swanepoel at the annual Amabubesi breakfast. Bonny en route to keeping her perfect score. Kevin Evans at the Pickfords_Cape epic race ad_(w)210mm X (h)130mm_border_Hires.pdf start of the 2011 Prologue.

guaranteed entry (for 2012 you’ll need seven fi nishes). Besides that (and major respect), there is a much-anticipated annual Amabubesi breakfast and this year, in keeping with the Absa Cape Epic’s logo re-design, a new Amabubesi logo. Craft has designed a new kit available exclusively to members, featuring the logo. Want to get there? “Ride with experienced Absa Cape Epic riders. Listen and learn from their stories,” says Bonny.

1 2012/01/16 01:30:14 PM

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ZZZ FDSH HSLF FRP

26

FULL NAME

Beech, Craig Gale, John Nixon, Mike Platt, Karl Rossignol, Dirk Stewart, Brandon Steyn, Hannele Steyn, Gerrie Swanepoel, Bonny Van Huyssteen, Hendrik Van Niekerk, Ben Wilson, Shan Benade, Joyce Boshoff, Riaan Buck, Martin Evans, Kevin Heymans, Mannie Labuschagne, David Labuschagne, Johan Lategan, Pieter Rademeyer, Henco Sherman, Mike Simpson, William Arthur, Mike Basson, Koos Bezuidenhout, Johan Blaauw, Henning Brentjens, Bart Bresser, Carsten Collin, Wayne Deacon, Marcel Du Toit, Dennis Du Toit, Louis Frazer, Neil Garcia, Gustavo Jakobsen, Cedric Kamfer, Jaco Lamond, Simon Mcintosh, Rob Nel, Neels Reyneke, Bruce Roux, Peter Sauser, Christoph Smal, Anton Wiederkehr, Marc Anderson, Greg Arthur, James Baker, Cecil Bassingthwaigthe, Marc Blaauw, Pea Booyens, Hanlie Brown, Doug Cairns, Rod Cave, Mike Cillie, Andrew De Jager, Russell De Lange, Aidan De Villiers, Yolandè Desimpeleare, Christophe Dinkelman, Mervyn Eloff, Frits Evans, George Fagan, Henry Fipaza, Songo Franken, M.C. George, David Hough, Simon Kamau Kihagi, Davidson Kapnoudhis, Mark Kinjah Njau, David Kraft, Ivonne Lamond, Nic Leary, Patrick Lemmer, Hendrik Mackintosh, Clinton Mclean, Andrew Mulder, Nicholas Muller, Corrie Niyonshuti, Adrien Nugent, Russell Olivier, Gerrie Olsen, Brett Peens, Cedric Pielenz, Markus Pruis, Kobie Rabie, Chris Rabie, Lood Roux, Etienne

AGE PRO GENDER

39 43 52 33 48 30 46 61 46 54 42 44 46 42 52 33 40 37 40 47 43 45 53 25 53 59 48 43 41 40 31 41 46 47 40 47 38 36 57 49 51 49 35 34 44 52 54 57 28 52 38 50 56 49 50 42 49 38 41 37 55 47 60 36 45 35 47 38 50 39 41 34 52 48 34 47 33 47 25 42 42 47 64 44 44 51 59 41

• • •

•

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•

•

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Ruddock, Geddan Sahm, Stefan Schubert, Karl Sillon, Laurent Silvis, Sander Smit, Daniel Storm, Hennie Strauss, Adriaan Strauss, Bryan Strauss, Francois Swaine, John Swanepoel, Ben Melt Thomson, Shane Van Der Merwe, Steve Van Dongen, Erno Van Nieuwenhuizen, Tjaart Van Rensburg, Malan Van Wyk, Sakkie Westaway, Andrew Whiteley, Jeffrey Wilcocks, Hillegert Zahnd, Thomas Anderson, Bruce Andrew, Mike Arapakis, Lake Barnard, Kobus Bedeker, Jacques Biesheuvel, Mike Boehme, Tim Boelts, Udo BÜgli, Michel Bontekoning, Brian Brachtendorf, Kerstin Browne, Mathew Bucher, Bärti Bushnell, Trever Childes, Michael Claes, Filip Cockburn, Bruce Conlon, Tony Conradie, Pierre Constancon, Petruschka Cordes, Paul Cotton, Alan Cronje, Chris Crous, Carl De Wet, Conrad Drew, Stephen Du Preez, Douw Du Toit, CD Durham, Leigh Ebersohn, Francois Edwards, Richard Eldridge, Jason Engelbrecht, Johan Enthoven, Adrian Erasmus, Leon Ernst, Achim Exelby, Roan Fick, Chris Foster, Hilton Fourie, Matthys Fuchs, Roland Genze, Hannes Girdwood, Graham Gnudi, Roberto Goodwin, Greg Green, Erica Hermida, Jose Hockey, Temlett Hofmeyr, Elsabe Jager, Reginald Jason, Mark Keet, Paul Kenny, Andrew Kleinhans, Erik Klopper, Koos Knox, Max Kotze, Fourie Lakata, Alban Lamberts, Jan Lategan, Pieter Loots, Sirk Loots, Lieb Loubser, Pierre Mac Farlane, Wayne Macready, David Malan, Jacques

AGE PRO GENDER

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Martin, Anka Mc Pherson, Kevin Mcgladdery, Roy Mclean, Dale Meier, Matthaeus Meintjes, Riaan Pfitzenmaier, Nico Pienaar, David Pieterse, Koos Pople, Troy Pretorius, Koos Qotoyi, Nicholas Rebello, Wayne Reed, Doug Retief, Albert Retief, Andre Roma, Mario Roux, Willie Samanek, Petr Schutte, Jan Silva, Clive Sim, Robert Smit, Coenie Speedy, Yolande Stander, Elmien Stopforth, Ischen Stroberg, Collin Talbot, Bruce Theron, Martin Thomas, Di Thomson, John Van den Schoor, Leon Van der Merwe, Willem Van Zyl, Paul Van Zyl, Christiaan Van Zyl, Nico Venables, Mike Venter, Ennis Victor, Dylan Viljoen, De Villiers Viljoen, Peter Walsh, Dane Ward, Liz Wentzel, Johan Wilcocks, Jeff Williams, Glenn Adam, Shaun Adam, Ted Alcock, Willy Aliperti, Daniel Ambler-Smith, Robert Andrews, Doug Bain Venn, Martin Baker, Waleed Barnard, Fienie Barnard, Theo Bellingan, Renier Bens, Danny Bezuidenhout, Coen Bizarria, Lourenco Blewett, Tim Bomford, Jeannie Boonstra, Lieuwe Boonzaier, Brad Booyens, Nicky Booysen, Wayne Boshoff, Andre Bosman, Anton Bosman, Carel Bothma, Craig Bouckaert, Luc Bowman, Duncan Breski, Uros Britz, Andre Brown-waterson, Leanne Bucceri, Ricky Bult, Axel Burger, Kobus Burger, Loan Burger, Roelof Buys, Philip Cackett, Roy Carcas, Mauro CarnĂŠ Case, Trevor Charlewood, Michael Cheesman, Michael Chilcott, Dylan Chorley, Christopher

AGE PRO GENDER

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4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

2012 RIDE GUIDE

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AMABUBESI MEMBERS FULL NAME

AGE PRO GENDER

Cilliers, Johan Clark, Jonathan Clayton, Andrew Cloete, George Cloete, Nicholas Cloete, Ian Collett, David Crowder, Russell Currie, Andrew Daniel, Graham De Beer, Frans De Bruin, Coenraad De Jager, Jean De Kock, Steve De Villiers, Jaco De Vries, Christiaan Derks, Riaan Henry Dewar, Kevin Diesel, Bruce Dietsch, Thomas Dimond, Steven Dirks, Gerard Distin, Trevor Dowdle, Justin Du Plessis, Christo Du Plessis, Etienne Du Plessis, Izak Du Plessis, Anton Du Toit, Albert Du Toit, Danie Du Toit, Ergee Du Toit, Jacques Du Toit, Wynand Duminy, Andries Edwards, Craig Endenburg, Roy Esmeyer, Marthinus Evrard, Daniel Farrenkothen, Ray Filho, Jose Correia Pinto Finlay, Francois Flückiger, Lukas Flückiger, Mathias Folscher, Werner Forrest, Chad Foster, Peter Franken, Pierre Fredman, Linzi Frischknecht, Thomas Fyfe, Dirk Fyvie, Guy Gaertner, Patrick Gaudard, Nicolas Gerard, Christophe Gerber, Marius Godwin, Avril Goosen, Colin Gous, Stephan Gregory, Andrew Grinton, Chris Grobbelaar, Darryl Grobler, Rowan Grobler, Theo Groenewald, Johan Haarhoff, Mark Haenggi, Michel Hahn, Tristan Hanekom, Hannes Hanekom, Sakkie Hanekom, Sean Harris, Michelle Harrison, Ann Hayes, Henry Haywood, Nikki Hemphill, Bradley Hendriks, Colin Hofmeyr, Jan-Hendrik Hohne, Peter Holmes, Joe Huiskens, Gerhard Humphries, Garth Jackson, Lynn Jackson, Merlyn Jackson, Rob Jacobs, Colleen Jacobs, Johan Joubert, Etienne Joubert, Riaan

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FULL NAME

Kaess, Jochen Kapsimalis, Stamatis Kennedy, Wayde Kiessling, Gerhard Klem, Corné Klohn, Gus Knott, David Kristafor, Sean Kristafor, Liesbet Kugler, Andreas Kuhn, Albert Labuschagne, Petro Lambinon, Jo Lategan, Pieter Lategan, Heine Lawrie, Dennis Lawson, Mike Le Roux, Dominique Leiman, David Lemmer, Carinus Lincoln, Yannick Loubser, Melt Maarsingh, Berend Jan Otto Maarsingh, Dirk Macmillan, Russell Malherbe, Francois Malherbe, Ludwig Mammon, Ismail Mapstone, Rory Marais, De Wet Mare, Carl Marescia, Gary Markgraaff, Gavin Marques, Paulo Marsh, Andrew Mcconnachie, Stuart Mcguffog, Angus Mckechnie, Rodney Mcpherson, Andy Meintjes, Evert Millard, Francois Mills, Ralph Milton, Trevor Monteith, Graham Montenegro, Alfredo Moolman, Jacobus Greeff Moolman Jnr., Greeff Morawski, Ryan Mulder, Martyn Muller, Gert Muller, Richard Munch, Cecil Munnik, Oliver Murray, Andrew Nienaber, Marnitz Oertel, George Olbrich, Robin Oliver, Mark Olivier, Arie Olivier, Leon Paterson, Andrew Paulissen, Roel Pauw, Barry Petr, Roman Pienaar, Fritz Pieterse, Madeleine Pike, Guy Potgieter, Michael Potter, Paul Powell, Robbie Pretorius, Gerhard Prinsloo, Daniel Pritchard, Charles Pummer, Fredy Rait, James Ravenhill, Bruce Record, Kevin Redfern, Derek Robert Rheeder, Jaco Richter, Heinrich Robinson, Gavin Roelandt, Ronny Ross-innes, Andrew Saayman, Erik Sachs, Brett Schaap, Andries Scheepers, Xavier Schienbein, Axel

AGE PRO GENDER

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AGE PRO GENDER

Scholtz, Dewald Seggie, Jane Seinen, Trevor Senekal, Petrus Serritslev, Ingrid Sickmueller, Johannes Simon, Peter Skea, Julia Smal, Sanet Smit, Kyle Smith, Pieter Snelling, Alan Sochanski, Chris Spaeth, Sandro Spapens, John Stander, Burry Steffny, Nik Stenson, Jonathan Steyn, Marais Steytler, Andrew Stopforth, Peter Stronkhorst, Miriam Stroucken, Jack Sumerauer, Sandra Süss, Esther Swanepoel, Ludwig Swart, Ben Swart, Henry Taelman, Franky Tait, Adele Thomson, Jeremy Till, Wayne Tingle, Craig Tingle, Ian Tomsett, Justin Tsachor, Gal Turnbull, Peter Uniacke, Chris Valverde, Joaquin Van Antwerpen, Richard Van Blerk, Nicky Van Dalsen, Maarten Van Der Bergh, Christo Van Heerden, Sarah Van Heerdt, Willem Van Huyssteen, Roelof Van Onselen, Linus Van Rensburg, Alex Van Rensburg, Maartin Van Rooyen, Jan Van Rooyen, Pieter Van Rooyen, Pieter Van Rooyen, Jan Van Staden, Robert Van Tonder, Danie Van Zyl, Jaco Velloza, Peter Venter, Pieter Viljoen, Danie Viljoen, Ernst Visagie, Izak Vorster, Fanus Waiss, Anita Walker, Anthony Wallace, Jonathan Walsh, David Wampach, Terry Warren, Brett Whitehouse, Michael Whitfield, Chris Wieltschnig, Silvio Wiid, Michael Nell Wijnberg, Richard Willimott, Mark Wood, Gavin Woods, Craig Wright, Tony Wroughton, Hayden Ziehl, Tim Zimmermann, Stefan Zonnestein, Jan

Australia Austria Belgium Botswana Brazil England

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South Africa Spain Switzerland United States of America 2012 RIDE GUIDE 27

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$0$%8%(6, LQGG &DSH HSLF '36 LQGG

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Innovation and Quality in Packs since 1974

VIPER SERIES - THE RACE PACK - VIPER 4 V BIKE + TOOLS + HYDRATION = MINIMALIST RIDING! 2-3L HYDRAFORM RESERVOIR LIDLOCK HELMET FASTNER INTERNAL PUMP & TOOL POUCH REFLECTIVE GRAPHICS RATED BEST BIKE PACK BY MTB UK 10/10

RAPTOR SERIES - THE TRAIL PACK - RAPTOR 10 RA AP

Behind the lenses Documenting the Absa Cape Epic is almost as tough as riding it. These men and women are telling the real story. GARY PERKIN is South Africa’s most celebrated and widely published cycling photographer. The mix of environment, passion and competition drives him to search endlessly for that iconic image, which sums up this great race. GREG BEADLE thrives on the fast-paced action of this world-class event and rates it up there with photographing the Tour de France.

CONSISTENT WATER DELIVERY 2-3L HYDRAFORM RESERVOIR LIDLOCK HELMET FASTNER MAIN COMPARTMENT WITH BIKE-SPECIFIC TOOL SLEEVES FRONT STRETCH WOVEN POCKET TOP ZIPPERED POCKET FOR QUICK ACCESS WIRE PORT FOR MP3 PLAYER RATED BEST BIKE DAY PACK BY ‘WHAT MOUNTAIN BIKE ’ EDITORS CHOICE

KARIN SCHERMBRUCKER has fi rmly established herself as one of South Africa’s top cycling photographers and the Absa Cape Epic is a highlight on her full calendar. NICK MUZIK has ridden road bikes, mountainbikes and BMXs, and done 11 Argus Cycle Tours (some from the A bunch) so he knows where the shot will be. RON GAUNT established Sportzpics in 2000 and the company has been syndicating images throughout the world from the Absa Cape Epic since 2008. SVEN MARTIN followed the world’s best mountainbikers to 15 different countries in 2011 – the same thing he’s been doing for the past 10 years. The race in 2012 will be his sixth Absa Cape Epic.

SPORTOGRAF: Implies photographer and sportsman, but also sportsman and photographer… As competition athletes in several disciplines, this organisation has a natural affinity to sport; respect the performance of every athlete, and honour this with professional quality pictures in the best locations.

OSPREY PRODUCTS ARE DISTRIBUTED BY THE BICYCLE COMPANY. DEALER ENQUIRIES SHAN WILSON 0825842761 OR SCOTT FRASER 0823788853.

EDITED PHOTOGRAPHERS.indd 30

2012/01/18 7:53 AM

ZZZ FDSH HSLF FRP GD\V ² ULGHUV

Above: Being able to read your partner's body language is crucial..

+RZ WR ULGH \RXU EHVW (SLF

To finish in the top 100 teams overall is the hallowed goal of many serious amateurs. But the step-up from riding midfield to racing in the A-bunch requires a whole other level of input.

PARTNERSHIP When a partnership becomes a team, the usual issues and dynamics associated with the two-man format are magnified. You and your partner need to be on exactly the same page when it comes to the riding goal. Once you’ve set and agreed on the goal and both are committed, an old-school strengths and weaknesses analysis is crucial. If you have a mechanical, you need to know who’s going to hold the bike and who’s going to attend to the problem. Chain issues – maybe you’re more adept, brakes and cables, perhaps it’s your partner with the know-how. Who is the better climber, better technical rider? Who is faster on the flats? All of this needs to be established long before the race.

PREPARATION The old clichĂŠ of “train like you’re going to raceâ€? is very applicable. If you’re going to train all your miles in the 60 to 70 per cent heart rate zone and racing is going to be between 70 to 80 per cent you're bound to fail. As the route changes every year, it is of course extremely difficult to know what that race pace is going to be. But to ride some of the big marathon distance races is a good place to learn pace. Then train to up the intensity and interval sessions. In turn it’s important to manage your training better and focus on your core and have a good base in place before you start the intense sessions in order to prevent injury. Besides the legs, the lungs and the mind it’s important to prep for mechanicals and mishaps. Know how to change a tyre – no really, you’ll be surprised. Think Formula 1 here, so practise and time it. Also, know who is carrying what spares – where are they and how do we get to them quickly. You also need to learn (read practise) the routines of the water points and possible mechanicals to avoid panic and lost time.

EQUIPMENT The worst thing you can do is to get a mental block over your bike’s race-worthiness. We’ve seen it happen before. Riders get into a

mental space where they don’t believe their bike is light or fast enough – perhaps their partner is racing a lighter, newer model – and they fall apart physically as a result.

NUTRITION As with your bike (and shoes, helmet and gloves) you need to know it’s working and, more importantly, believe in it. Of course taste and performance and tolerance levels differ, but the ideal, as with your other equipment, is if you and your partner are racing on the same nutrition. That way if you lose a bottle along the way, run out between water points, whatever the case, you can share bottles and hydration packs without the risk of consequences. Know why it does what it does and what is in it, rather than use it because you read about it in a magazine or the hotshot salesman at your bike shop told you it’s the latest and greatest.

STRATEGY The key here is to race just under lactate threshold throughout the stage. Every stage. Even on climbs, try not to go over it for more than a few minutes at a time. Consistently sustain a higher average pace, rather than ride yo-yo as some of the backmarkers and midfielders often do. Momentum breeds momentum and is a massive mental part of the race. Conversely, it’s important to resist the temptation to be swept along at a pace you know you can’t sustain. The starts in the A-bunch are fast, some times very. Don’t let the adrenaline rush get the better of you and try to keep up with the top50 bunch (they’re another story for another day). You need to learn the discipline (and patience) to slow down and settle into your pace. Use roadie tactics on the open district roads and even when it’s flat and fast on jeep tracks. Bunch riding and drafting skills (and the nerve to do it) are invaluable. Just remember to take your pulling turn at the front.

2012 RIDE GUIDE 31

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www.cape-epic.com

How hard really is a day in the life of a top-level endurance event? “It’s the Tour de France of mountainbiking,” said Bart Brentjens, 2005 winner and former world and Olympic champion. For a professional mountainbiker, there is no bigger stage race to win. Everyone who rides dreams of yellow, or at least a stage win. With worldwide press and TV coverage, millions of eyeballs are watching the world’s best battle it out. There’s no doubt that it’s the race in mountainbike stage racing, just like the Tour de France is the road cycling event and Ironman is the triathlon.

Events

2011 TOUR DE FRANCE – STAGE 14

But the question is, how hard is the Absa Cape Epic compared to other top-level endurance races? What do the athletes go through when competing in each of them? We took a day in the life of the Tour de France, Ironman and threw in the Argus for good measure to see how they match up. Of course this warrants a full scientific study, and one could derive enough hypotheses to justify five PhDs, but here we’ll just give an idea of the efforts involved, based on data submitted to us from Polar, Training Peaks, Sports Science Institute and Bicycle Power.

2011 IRONMAN

2011 'ARGUS

2011 ABSA CAPE EPIC – STAGE 6

65

65

85

70

METRES CLIMBED (m)

4 700

1 500

1 000

2 700

ENERGY CONSUMPTION (kJ)

5 100

AVERAGE HEART RATE (%)

5 200

8 000

2 000

AVERAGE POWER (watts)

285

310 (Bike)

250

240

INTENSITY FACTOR (IF)

0,75

0,7

0,85

0,75

NORMALISED POWER

330

330 (Bike)

320

295

TSS VALUE (Training Stress Score)

375

290

210

350

Riders must complete all 21 stages within 30 per cent of the winning time. Major climbs are at high altitude – above 2 000 metres.

Completing the event in three disciplines adds another dimension to athletes' fatigue levels.

NOTABLE DIFFICULTIES

781 km – 16 300 m

Are we there yet?

Nervousness in the bunch Climbing and descending on terrain that requires a degree of technical can lead to crashing. ability causes mental fatigue, and Relatively short races rough surfaces punish the body. generally require more intense efforts.

These values reflect an average reading from three top athletes in their respective disciplines. Figures are approximate.

2012 RIDE GUIDE 33

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2012/01/18 8:41 AM

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8 days – 1 200 riders

STRAP STRAP STRAP

Hope and dreams Rwanda's mountainbiking sensation sets his sights on the Absa Cape Epic and Olympics. Adrien Niyonshuti survived the Rwandan genocide of 1994, while most of his siblings were killed. In 2011, he was selected to represent his home country in the 2012 Olympic games riding the mountainbike cross-country event. To say his journey is remarkable would be a staggering understatement about the man from the land of a thousand hills. As the fi rst-ever Rwandan to qualify for Olympic mountainbiking after fi nishing fourth in the African Mountain Bike Championships, Niyonshuti aims for a good result in what many regard as the ultimate event in the sport. He’ll participate in all of the UCI World Cup events to condition himself for the high speed of cross-country racing. But before then he has the world’s premier mountainbike stage race, the Absa Cape Epic in his crosshairs. “I will be doing more cross-country races in the season to prepare for the Olympics, but the fi rst main focus of the year is the Absa Cape Epic. That’s a very important race for me. I was a little sick so I rested for a few weeks and then 15 December was day one of my training for the 2012 Absa Cape Epic.” Niyonshuti began cycling when he was 16 after he received a bicycle from his uncle. In 2006, he won the inaugural Wooden Bike Classic in September 2006. But he really hit the international stage at 21 years of age when he competed in the 2007 Absa Cape Epic, riding with coach and American former pro cyclist and Tour de France rider Jock Boyer. It was a story of hope. In a mid-race interview, shortly after crossing the line in Villiersdorp, Boyer said about a very youthful Niyonshuti, “This guy is amazing, he’s waiting for me – his fi rst time in a mountainbike 34

race and he’s so strong. He’ll go far.” Since then the Rwandan has ridden the race four more times, garnering the African leaders’ jersey in 2011, riding with mountainbike legend and 2004 Absa Cape Epic winner Mannie Heymans. Heymans was equally in awe, “It was a real privilege riding with this guy. He’s as strong in his legs as his head.” His campaign on the road is no less impressive, with two victories of his home race, Tour of Rwanda. On his first trip to Europe to compete in the Tour of Ireland, he found himself racing against Lance Armstrong. Team manager Douglas Ryder says, “Adrien’s an icon – about 70 per cent of Rwanda know him. If he walks the streets everyone shouts out his name. If he ran for president he’d get 70 per cent of the vote!” But fame doesn’t always lend itself to good results. “It’s not easy for Adrien in Rwanda. The trouble is everyone wants a piece of him so he can’t prepare as well as he’s used to. He'd like to train here in South Africa, where he can focus.” For the 2012 Absa Cape Epic, he’ll be partnering up with Jacques Janse van Rensburg for Team MTN Qhubeka. “I know him well – we rode the Cape Pioneer Trek together. We are aiming for top Africans and also top fi ve overall. I think it’ll be good.” No doubt he’ll be hoping to retain his title. He might say he’s delighted to be riding alongside the world’s best mountainbikers, but, following his career’s skyward arc, he should now be considering himself one of them.

2012 RIDE GUIDE

PROFILE ADRIEN.indd 34

2012/01/18 8:07 AM

www.cape-epic.com 781 km – 16 300 m

Photocredit to Sportograf

From fat to fit Above: Andre during the 2011 prologue.

Where did a couch potato get inspiration to lose 20 per cent of his bodyweight and compete in the Absa Cape Epic? From the couch of course! In July 2010, a 120-kilogram Andre Ross sat in his lounge watching late-night TV. The Absa Cape Epic broadcast came on and, although he had last ridden a bike as a child and had never touched a mountainbike, he was mesmerised. On that couch he set himself the challenge of completing the gruelling eight-day event. As a member of Absa Capital’s team, he secured a slot at the race through the Absa Access to Entry and immediately bought his fi rst mountainbike. Although the race may have been the hardest undertaking of his life, Ross’s journey to the start was no easier. He had to lose that excess weight. He joined CycleLab’s club and rode 20 kilometres at his fi rst club meeting, a far cry from the 100-kilometre-plus days he would be tackling in March. Morning after morning, he woke before dawn to prepare for the task ahead. Although he played first team basketball at university, the inactivity and eating habits of a desk job had taken their toll. Ross soon receded into a sedentary lifestyle and before long, he felt ashamed of his once lean and trim body. By the age of 33, he was chronically overweight. Mike Andrews, Ross’s colleague at Absa had already completed the event and set him up with a training programme and diet plan. The then-hefty Ross clearly remembers the shock on Andrews’ face when they fi rst met. Under the wing of Garth Humphries, Ross started riding

with experienced Epic riders, working on his technical skills as much as his fitness. In the lead up to the event, 26 kilograms fell off his large frame, transforming him from slab to sprite. This is not the fi rst time Ross has had to show his mettle. His father passed away when he was still a teenager, leaving him with no money to pay for his studies. After matriculating from Bernadino Heights Sekondêr, he enrolled at the University of Namibia, working at the perfume counter in a department store to fund his accounting degree. Ross crossed the fi nish line at the 2011 Absa Cape Epic a happy man, ending one of the hardest weeks of his life. As an inspiration to many, he proved that with determination, anyone can achieve anything, including completing the Absa Cape Epic. Ross isn’t done yet. He’s entered the 2012 Absa Cape Epic, this time challenging his boss, Diteboho Khumalo, to ride with him. Khumalo had also never ridden a mountainbike and, like Ross, rushed straight to the bike shop after entering. They've created a foursome, with two experienced riders to pair up with them on their assault of the 2012 route. If Khumalo is even half as determined as Ross, we’re likely to see them grinning widely, bedecked with their fi nishers’ medals, at Lourensford. 2012 RIDE GUIDE 35

ABSA FEATURE.indd 35

2012/01/18 10:21 AM

NUTRITION

(DW IRU WRPRUURZ A single stage of the Absa Cape Epic puts extraordinary demands on the body’s reserves. Replacing the energy spent during and after each stage is crucial for recovery so that you can get up and do it all over again the following day.

“You can’t race on gels only,” says Vincent Durand, sport scientist and soigneur to multiple Absa Cape Epic winners Team Bulls. “Karl (Platt) and Stefan (Sahm) can. The average pro can use between seven and 12 gels a stage,” he says. “But they get home in time for lunch ... a full lunch, plus a couple of snacks during the afternoon and then a full dinner.” The average rider is going to be out on the bike for more than seven hours. Gels and carbohydrate drinks might sustain them for those seven hours, but they are going to severely hamper the following day’s riding. “If you’re not racing for a top-50 spot, stop and spend a constructive five minutes at the waterpoint,” suggests Durand. “Get into a routine of relaxing and having a snack. Eat a Woolies muffin and digest it. (Woolworths will once again be stocking the waterpoints in 2012 and has a refreshment station at the finish geared toward poststage nutritional replenishment and carboloading for the next day’s challenge.) Of course, you shouldn’t completely discard gels and sweets. Durand points out that it’s the balance between simple sugars, complex carbs and protein that will not only fuel you to go the distance, but also keep your tummy happy. “You often hear of stage racers complaining of a stomach bug around day four or five. (Usually) that’s not a bug, it’s just your body overdosing on sugar,” he says. Three waterpoints at five minutes each adds up to 15 minutes, which might seem a lot to add to your day’s total riding time. But what you invest in those 15 minutes in terms of nutrition is going to pay major dividends towards the end of the stage. “And, more significantly, toward tomorrow – the cumulative effect is far more important than the performance on the day,” adds Durand. He stresses that you mustn’t linger too long over the Woolies goodies. “Have a strategy at the waterpoint so you take in what you need, fill your bottles and wave at the supporters, but get going before you cool down and stiffen up,” says Durand.

Starting the day on the correct nutritional note is also crucial to having a good ride on any stage. “As with your race nutrition (what goes into your water bottle or hydration pack), you shouldn’t eat anything different from what you’re used to for breakfast,” he says. “If you’re used to training on oats or toast and jam, then don’t have bacon and eggs before a stage.”

Below: Take the time to fuel up at the waterpoints. Not just for the rest of the stage, but to aid recovery and help you do it again tomorrow.

3 230 kg

36

of pasta, rice and potatoes was consumed during the 2011 event

2012 RIDE GUIDE

1875,7,21 LQGG

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1875,7,21 LQGG

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72:16 $1' '(67,16 LQGG

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www.cape-epic.com

Towns and destinations

STRAP STRAP STRAP 8 days – 1 200 riders

The 2012 Absa Cape Epic will once again showcase the diversity of the Western Cape. From the bustle of the V&A Waterfront, to the hills of Durbanville, the Klein Karoo, the slopes of the Kogelberg Biosphere and the iconic Winelands.

MEERENDAL Some 20 kilometres from the Mother City's centre lies Meerendal Wine Estate, an iconic wine-producing landmark in the Tygerberg Hills. With a history dating back more than 300 years, Meerendal boasts a wine selection with an international reputation. Its proximity to the chilly Atlantic Ocean and unique terroir (the riders will discover just how uniquely steep it is) make Meerendal ideal for Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Merlot and Pinot Noir. It is also home to the oldest Pinotage vineyard in South Africa, planted here in 1955. Meerendal will host the hilltop finish of the Prologue, with riders cresting the long final climb silhouetted against the backdrop of Table Mountain.

ROBERTSON From the hills of Durbanville, the race will travel about 90 minutes east to Robertson Wine Valley. This quaint western gateway to the Klein Karoo and Route 62 hosts stages one, two and three. Hemmed in by the majestic Langeberg Mountains to the north and the Breede River to the south, the Robertson Wine Valley is known for its variety of adventure activities and, of course, for its fi ne wines. Both the ecotourism and social scene centre around the relaxed hospitality of the 150-year-old town with its jacaranda-lined streets and Victorian buildings. There is a variety of accommodation available for supporters from backpackers to guesthouses, farm accommodation and boutique hotels.

CALEDON Host to stages four and fi ve, Caledon is the heart of an agricultural area rich in wheat, barley, canola and onions, but is most famous for

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Caledon

its hot springs, to which it owes its existence. There are seven springs, one of which is cold, while the other six are naturally heated to around 49,5 degrees Celsius. These waters are free of any organic matter and said to be of the highest mineral quality in the world. Today, it can be enjoyed in a garden setting with a Victorian bathhouse. Post-stage muscle soak anyone?

OAK VALLEY, ELGIN Situated within the 100 000-hectare UNESCO-registered Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, Elgin lies at the centre of the Cape Floral Kingdom. Oak Valley Estate, which the Absa Cape Epic is visiting for the fifth time, is typical of the area: it has orchards of apples and pears, greenhouses producing cut flowers and vineyards some 600 metres above sea level that produce grapes for the estate’s range of premium wines. The farm is also a producer of prime free-range pork. Interestingly, the pigs are fed acorns sourced from the farm’s 4 000plus ancient oak trees. This acorn diet leads to a high concentration of oliec acid (a healthy fat) in the pig’s intramuscular fat.

LOURENSFORD Lourensford Wine Estate was established in 1700 but its agricultural history runs much further back (artefacts dating more than 150 000BC have been found). Its long alliance with the Absa Cape Epic continues as it hosts the Grand Finale for the sixth time. The estate is famous for its fine wines, ranging from Merlot and Syrah to Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc among others. Lourensford Wine Estate owner Christo Wiese and his team are actively working to preserve the unique plants of the Cape Floral Kingdom and the general biodiversity of the estate while running a successful commercial operation.

Meerendal

Oak Valley

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781 km – 16 300 m

www.cape-epic.com

The route

WATERPOINT SPONSORS

What the riders can expect

CRAIG BEECH CHARTS HIS NINTH COURSE “Riding trails across private land for the event is an amazing privilege,” says Craig Beech, one of the select few riders to have ridden every Absa Cape Epic. “To think of what we’ve seen and ridden across in the past eight years is fantastic. Dr Evil sure does find some gems.” And Craig should know, besides eight finisher’s medals, he – as GIS (geographical information system) specialist -

has also been the official map maker every year. “Something of which the Absa Cape Epic can be really proud of is the use of the 3D fly-through’s,” he says. “We were doing this ’BG (before Google) and I would go so far as to say we were the first sporting event to make use of this technology. Then came Google Earth and now it’s a standard means of viewing stages.”

You can only ride the route of the Absa Cape Epic as a participant or as a member of the Epic Trippers programme. Much of the route is on private land, belonging to landowners who support the Absa Cape Epic and open their gates for the race. This land is NOT open for general mountain biking, and riders who are found to trespass there will receive a lifetime ban from the race.

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LIVE ON SUPERSPORT from 9.00 am

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The ninth edition of the race kicks off with a 27-kilometre prologue at Meerendal Wine Estate in the Durbanville Wine Valley – the new mountainbiking Mecca on Cape Town’s doorstep. The start is at the historic Meerendal Wine Estate. Far from just a ceremonial stroll, it’ll be flat out from the start ramp heading through Contermanskloof, Kliprug Hillcrest and Nitida. The route takes riders through protected Renosterveld, railing the sublime single track created by the Tygerberg

DISTANCE

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27 km

Sunday 25 March START AND FINISH LOCATION: MEERENDAL WINE ESTATE Mountain Bike Club. On the fi nal push on the lung-bursting climb up to the Meerendal mountaintop fi nish – afi rst in the history of the Absa Cape Epic, riders will be looking to spectators lining the trail for support, with magnificent views of Table Mountain and Table Bay in the background. Teams will open up their throttles for a good seeding at the start in Robertson for stage.

27 km 900 m

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Stage one As the race’s history tells us, stage one is always a rude awakening for the riders. Combining the length, the climbing, the severity of the trail surfaces and the speed of fresh-legged hares at the front of the fi eld; all will be a shock to the system, even for the best prepared. Three major climbs loom ahead of the athletes. The first three-kilometre rise is littered with loose rocks and tilting to 25 per cent, forcing portage, and there’s a risky descent lying in wait. Then it’s Hangman’s Tree, which may be short, but could take up to half an hour to conquer. Beautiful fl owing trails then traverse the mountain ridges, showcasing

Monday 26 March START AND FINISH LOCATION: ROBERTSON

the breathtaking scenery we’ve come to expect from the race. Tortoise Peak is the third major obstacle (there are still a few lesser ones after) and riders will be creeping up this slow, yet rideable five-kilometre ascent, named after its ancient residents. Riders with bar ends ought to take care on the descent, with grabbing branches on the off-camber dual tracks. For their considerable efforts, riders are rewarded with a beautiful section of trails through Nama Karoo, with a few gentle rises before finally turning east, back towards Robertson with a final rocky plunge into town.

WATERPOINT 1

WATERPOINT 3 WATERPOINT 2

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115 km 2350 m

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Stage two The route traverses the beautiful rolling dual tracks through the stony Klein Karoo, passing through the charming village of McGregor. It’s a special day out for the riders. For those who manage to avoid tunnel vision, it’s a geologist’s paradise, with remarkable sandstone formations. Some might say this is too much fun for the Absa Cape Epic, but riders will soon be brought back down to earth – the rocks may create

WATERPOINT 1

Tuesday 27 March START AND FINISH LOCATION: ROBERTSON

beautiful formations but they’re sharp. With knife-edged shale and a carpet of thorns, heavy-duty tyres are essential. After passing through Van Loveren Wine Estate on some severe vineyard hills, a district road takes the race past Ashton as they head towards the mountains for some short but steep climbs before returning to Robertson.

WATERPOINT 2

WATERPOINT 3

119 km 1650 m

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Some may call stage two “a fun day out”, but now it's payback time. Dr Evil cites four major climbs on the longest stage in Epic history, with the action starting around the 40-kilometre mark. The first is a six-kilometre dual track, where riders will fight for traction over large rolling rocks. Then there’s the four-kilometre Mast climb, with a view over Villiersdorp. The next lump in the profi le is a smooth and comparatively easy rise to the Toll House, the highest point of the day, with a fast five-kilometre descent dropping 500 metres into the valley.

Wednesday 28 March START AND FINISH LOCATION: ROBERTSON TO CALEDON

At the 110-kilometre mark, there’s the UFO climb to scale. A sharp rise is followed by a tricky descent, undoing all the hard work. Then starting again, from the bottom, is a steep rocky trail with several false peaks where riders will be switching to their granny gears. Riders can clock up some mileage on the fast downhill district roads before the last 10 kilometres slows them down again, traversing farmlands. Riders are welcomed to their new race village – Caledon.

WATERPOINT 1

WATERPOINT 3

WATERPOINT 2 WATERPOINT 4

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Two major climbs jab upwards on the day’s route profi le. Thefi rst is the loose, long and steep Babylonstoren. Then it’s the brutal, stony ascent to Charlie’s Heaven and riders should be used to false peaks by now. Riders will be watching the weather report closely, hoping for some cloud cover to take the edge off the scorching heat. But with views as far as Cape Point and Cape Agulhas, it’ll be worth going through hell to get

Thursday 29 March START AND FINISH LOCATION: CALEDON

to the top. Danger lies ahead on the rough, steep descent, with jagged rocks and deep ruts on this washed-out road. The run into the fi nish includes open farm roads, fast paths along a railway line, some tight singletrack past the tiny village of Middleton and a few hundred metres of trails through Caledon’s botanical gardens.

WATERPOINT 3

WATERPOINT 2

WATERPOINT 1

105 km 2600 m

The distance Total climb 2012 RIDE GUIDE 45

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13375_SACE_EPIC ROUTES.indd 46 PRO FP.indd 1

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1/12/2012 09:58:58 2012/01/18 9:03 AM AM

58:58 AM

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Stage five Dr Evil has one aim on Stage five – get riders to that famed Oak Valley singletrack as soon as possible. So it’s a fast, flowing start, before heading to the fynbos-lined mountain tracks. As they edge closer to Elgin/Grabouw, riders’ morale will be buoyed by the striking views from the Highlands Plateau onto the Botrivier Lagoon and Kleinmond Beach. A steady 10-kilometre climb takes them through the Kogelberg

Friday 30 March START AND FINISH LOCATION: CALEDON TO OAK VALLEY / ELGIN

Nature Reserve, famous for its biodiversity and rare fynbos. Then, it’s a combination of new and old flowing singletrack through Lebanon, Thandi and Oak Valley on some unforgettable loops in apple country. But be warned, the last few steep singletrack climbs throw some devastating combination punches to the legs in the final push towards the lush fields of the race village in Oak Valley.

WATERPOINT 1

WATERPOINT 3

WATERPOINT 2

119 km 2350 m

The distance Total climb 2012 RIDE GUIDE 47

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2012/01/18 2:59 PM

For further proof of our commitment to water saving, speak to the guys who rode 707 km last year.

For this image and other fine photography, visit www.paulnielsenimages.com

The Absa Cape Epic is one of the world’s most gruelling mountain bike races. Over 8 days, competitors cycle over 700 dirty kilometres across the Western Cape.

of the water-saving power of Hansgrohe that he’s replaced all his own showers at home too.

Upon crossing the finish line each day, they head straight for a specially designed portable showering system. For the 2011 event, we added Hansgrohe water saving fittings to the shower cubicles.

“In the past, we used to have to refill the water truck 3 to 4 times every day. After we fitted the Hansgrohe showerheads, we needed to do that only once.�

As one of the industry’s pioneers in water saving, Hansgrohe has been proactively innovating products with the environment in mind for over 111 years. Of course we jump at any chance to put our technology to good use too. We provided Croma 1jet showerheads and efficient E2 Decor mixers to help event organisers save water without compromising the comfort to riders. Inside our mixers and showerheads fitted with EcoSmart, sophisticated functions restrict the flow with a 50 percent water saving. Don’t take our word for it though, speak to Riaan Binneman, Logistics Supplier for the Absa Cape Epic. He’ll tell you in great detail how many times he’s had to pour 8000 litres into the water truck over the years. And how convinced he is

Riaan Binneman: Logistics Supplier for the 2011 Absa Cape Epic

For a first-hand account on what our products did for the individual shower experience, pick any one of the 1200 riders. You’re sure to get reports from emphatic to downright embarrassingly superlative. Perhaps it’s that once you’ve spent the better part of each day sweating it out on a mountain bike saddle, you’re likely to say anything. But with the Hansgrohe range of products as frugal in water consumption as they are luxurious in water feel, we’re sure it won’t take you any great distance to agree.

Hansgrohe Eco Showers Raindance Air 180 9 litres/minute #27461000

B(SLF $G /D\RXWB LQGG ROUTES.indd 48

Croma 1jet 7,5 litres/minute #28492003

Crometta 85 Green 1jet 6 litres/minute #28423000

For more information on our products and water-saving ethos, please call us on 011 468 1150 or visit www.hansgrohe.co.za.

$0 2012/01/18 9:04 AM

$0

980 m 880

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Stage six Don’t be fooled by the distance of the stage. It’s a hard day of climbing and Nuweberg is the first big challenge with the dangling carrot of stunning vistas at the top. On the penultimate day, nearing the climax of race week, the grand old lady Groenlandberg appears. Deep into this highly unique and remote landscape, riders will savour the solitude of the 30-kilometre of dual tracks through this pristine Cape Nature

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Saturday 31 March START AND FINISH LOCATION: OAK VALLEY / ELGIN reserve as they tackle her in two parts. The fi rst steady rise brings them to a rutted descent. From here the path contours along the side of this beautiful mountain, then it’s the final ascent towards the saddle, followed by yet another tricky, washed-out descent. Again, riders get to enjoy the twisting single track on Paul Cluver before finishing off with fast and flat singletrack on Oak Valley.

WATERPOINT 1

WATERPOINT 2

85 km 2200 m

The distance Total climb 2012 RIDE GUIDE 49

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2012/01/18 3:00 PM

5287(6 LQGG

$0

LIVE ON SUPERSPORT from 9.00 am

600 m

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Dr Evil has found a new way to the Champs Elysees of mountainbiking, again reminding riders there's no easy day at the Epic. Lourensford awaits the tired athletes as they make their way from Oak Valley over Twin Peaks above the Elgin Dam and down the ever-familiar portage section of Gamtouw Pass. Once again, participants follow the footsteps of the Voortrekkers, their tyres tracing the wagon-wheel grooves down

Sunday 1 April START AND FINISH LOCATION: OAK VALLEY / ELGIN TO LOURENSFORD WINE ESTATE

to Journeys End Winery. The last water point offers a final reward, before a last test of resolve – a few steep ascents with magnifi cent views of False Bay and Table Mountain. Once again, Lourensford hosts the Grand Finale festivities as riders experience that bitter-sweet feeling at the end of the arduous, yet epic journey of the Absa Cape Epic.

WATERPOINT

64km 1350 m

The distance Total climb

Note: Routes are subject to change, and separate batch start times will be used to avoid congestion on the course. Please pay attention during the race briefi ngs and note your batch start times.

2012 RIDE GUIDE 51

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2012/01/18 3:38 PM

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‘RIDE’ to 32698

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781 km – 16 300 m

2 3:59 PM

www.cape epic.com

Preview to 2013 The 2013 Absa Cape Epic marks the 10th anniversary of the race. Here’s what’s in store for the riders. As the riders make their final preparations for the 2012 Absa Cape Epic, route designer Leon Evans, aka Dr Evil, is already out in the fi eld, plotting and planning for the 2013 event. The crew back at the offi ce are in 2013 mode too, strategising the best possible way to celebrate. From humble beginnings, the race in 2004 began in Knysna and traversed the Garden Route along long stretches of road joining Karoo towns and coastal hamlets before finishing in the Winelands. A typical modern-day Absa Cape Epic however, focuses solely on the rider experience, looping the eight-day course through the best trails in the region, making the most of what the Western Cape has to offer. The race in 2013 will continue in this tradition.

To commemorate the race’s entry into double figures, a beautiful coffee table book is to be published, a special documentary compiled, a new race category created (grand masters), 10-year limited edition merchandise designed plus a birthday dinner hosted at the race as well as a 10th anniversary evening for Amabubesi members. For those already keen to register for the 2013 race, 100 Early Bird entries are available online on 2 April 2012 from 3.00 pm. The lottery opens on the same day and closes on 31 May 2012. Huge demand is expected for slots at the 10th edition, so if a rider has entered the lottery for five years in a row without success, a guaranteed entry will be granted in 2014. For registration details, visit www.cape epic.com.

2012 SuperSport viewing schedule DATE

EPISODE

TIME CHANNEL STATUS

25 March 25 March 26 March 26 March 26 March 26 March 26 March 26 March 26 March

Prologue Day 1 Prologue: 27 km Prologue: 27 km Prologue: 27 km Prologue: 27 km Prologue: 27 km Prologue: 27 km Prologue: 27 km Prologue: 27 km

9.00 am 10.00 pm 1.00 am 2.50 am 6.00 am 7.20 am 11.00 am 4.00 pm 7.30 pm

SS6/SS6A/SHD SS2/SS2A SS6/SS6A SHD SS6/SS6A SHD SS2/SS2A/SHD SS2/SS2A/SHD SS2/SS2A/SH2

Live Premier Repeat Premier Repeat Repeat Repeat Repeat Repeat

26 March 27 March 27 March 27 March 27 March 27 March 27 March

Stage 1: 115 km Stage 1: 115 km Stage 1: 115 km Stage 1: 115 km Stage 1: 115 km Stage 1: 115 km Stage 1: 115 km

10.00 pm 1.00 am 3.30 am 6.00 am 11.00 am 4.00 pm 8.00 pm

SS2/SS2A/SH2 SS6/SS6A SHD SS6/SS6A/SHD SS2/SS2A/SHD SS2/SS2A/SHD SS6/SS6A

Premier Repeat Repeat Repeat Repeat Repeat Repeat

27 March 28 March 28 March 28 March 28 March 28 March 28 March 28 March

Stage 2: 119 km Stage 2: 119 km Stage 2: 119 km Stage 2: 119 km Stage 2: 119 km Stage 2: 119 km Stage 2: 119 km Stage 2: 119 km

10.00 pm 12.30 am 1.00 am 3.00 am 6.00 am 11.00 am 4.00 pm 8.00 pm

SS6/SS6A SHD SS2/SS2A SH2 SS6/SS6A/SHD SS6/SS6A/SHD SS6/SS6A/SHD SS2/SS2A/SHD

Premier Premier Repeat Repeat Repeat Repeat Repeat Repeat

28 March 29 March 29 March 29 March

Stage 3: 147 km 10.00 pm SS6/SS6A Stage 3: 147 km 12.30 am SHD Stage 3: 147 km 1.00 am SS2/SS2A Stage 3: 147 km 6.00 am SS6/SS6A/SHD

Premier Premier Repeat Repeat

DATE

EPISODE

TIME CHANNEL STATUS

29 March 29 March 29 March

Stage 3: 147 km 11.00 am SS6/SS6A/SHD Stage 3: 147 km 4.00 pm SS2/SS2A/SH2 Stage 3: 147 km 8.00 pm SS2/SS2A/SHD

Repeat Repeat Repeat

29 March 30 March 30 March 30 March 30 March 30 March 30 March

Stage 4: 105 km Stage 4: 105 km Stage 4: 105 km Stage 4: 105 km Stage 4: 105 km Stage 4: 105 km Stage 4: 105 km

10.00 pm 1.00 am 6.00 am 11.00 am 4.00 pm 7.30 pm 8.00 pm

SS6/SS6A/SHD SS6/SS6A/SHD SS6/SS6A/SHD SS6/SS6A/SHD SS6/SS6A/SH2 SHD SS7/SS7N

Premier Repeat Repeat Repeat Repeat Repeat Repeat

30 March 31 March 31 March 31 March 31 March 31 March 31 March

Stage 5: 119 km Stage 5: 119 km Stage 5: 119 km Stage 5: 119 km Stage 5: 119 km Stage 5: 119 km Stage 5: 119 km

10.00 pm 1.00 am 6.00 am 11.00 am 4.00 pm 8.00 pm 8.30 pm

SS2/SS2A/SH2 SS2/SS2A/SHD SS2/SS2A/SHD SS2/SS2A/SHD SS2/SS2A/SH2 SS6/SS6A SH2

Premier Repeat Repeat Repeat Repeat Repeat Repeat

31 March 1 April 1 April 1 April 1 April 1 April 2 April 2 April 2 April 2 April 2 April

Stage 6: 85 km Stage 6: 85 km Stage 6: 85 km Stage 6: 85 km Stage 7: 64 km Stage 7: 64 km Stage 7: 64 km Stage 7: 64 km Stage 7: 64 km Stage 7: 64 km Stage 7: 64 km

10.00 pm 1.00 am 6.00 am 8.30 am 9.00 am 8.00 pm 1.00 am 6.00 am 11.00 am 4.00 pm 8.00 pm

SS2/SS2A/SHD SS2/SS2A/SHD SS2/SS2A/SHD SS6/SS6A/SHD SS6/SS6A/SHD SS2/SS2A/SHD SS2/SS2A/SHD SS2/SS2A/SHD SS2/SS2A/SHD SS6/SS6A/SHD SS2/SS2A/SHD

Premier Repeat Repeat Repeat Live Premier Repeat Repeat Repeat Repeat Repeat 2012 RIDE GUIDE 53

FOLLOW THE RACE.indd 53

2012/01/18 1:07 PM

1 April 2012 Lourensford Wine Estate

7KH *UDQG )LQDOH The last stage of the Absa Cape Epic finishes at the beautiful Lourensford Wine Estate. Not only is it a fitting end to eight incredibly tough days of competition and camaraderie, but it’s also your chance to witness the final battle between some of the world’s best mountainbikers. So, bring along family and friends to welcome these gutsy athletes home. It promises to be a day of adventure – accompanied by great food and fine wine, in a truly superb setting.

Unique hosting opportunity Grand Finale corporate hospitality packages offer guests a day of luxurious enjoyment in celebration of the Untamed African Mountainbike Race. For more information on available corporate hospitality packages so your clients can be part of the world-class entertainment, food and adventure, contact: jon@cape-epic.com

www.cape-epic.com RIDE GUIDE

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The Untamed African Mountain Bike Race THE ABSA CAPE EPIC

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Arrive early – parking available from 5.00 am Cape Times Vineyard races 50 km Vineyard MTB Race – Start time: 7.30 am 26 km Vineyard MTB Race – Start time: 8.00 am 15 km trail run – Start time: 8.30 am 6 km trail run – Start time: 8.35 am

Live entertainment Bike tricks, aerobatics and Freshlyground Kenny Belaey (World Trial Champion) – 10.00 am Aerobatics display – 10.40 am Freshlyground – 14.00 pm

Children’s activities Spur children’s fun ride and Spur Kid’s Play Canyon Spur children’s fun ride – Start time: 9.00 am Kiddies’ Zone – Open from 9.00 am onwards 2012 RIDE GUIDE 55

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If you happen to live outside the province or are stuck at your office desk, you can always follow the action LIVE on www.cape-epic.com.

Rider tracking Follow the riders as they are tracked along the route.Â

Stage results Get current, detailed updates of the riders in each category.

Live info Keep a close watch on the course and race village from the eye in the sky.

Twitter stream Tweets from riders, spectators, supporters and crew.

Daily news Read detailed up-to-theminute news articles. Photo stream Live stream of photos taken by the riders, crew and spectators at the race.

Who to watch Follow this link to view the teams highlighted as top contenders for the grand prize.

Video stream View the latest videos capturing all the drama every day.

Spectator info Find out when and where you can watch each day’s racing along the route.

TV schedule When to watch us on SuperSport.

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Photo gallery Official race photos taken by our team of award-winning photographers.

Grand finale Information you’ll need to come and witness the joy and emotion of riders finishing the Absa Cape Epic.

2012 RIDE GUIDE

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F o r m o r e , c a l l : 0 1 1 8 0 5 1 0 2 8 o r v i s i t w w w. p o l a r. f i / z a

and motivation you’re looking for. After all, why should you have to go it alone.

Success takes commitment and discipline. It’s a journey for body and mind. There’s a member of the Polar family that will give you the inspiration

THERE ARE NO SHORT CUTS TO ANYWHERE WORTH GOING.

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Description & Size: Cape Epic Print Ad 275(h) x 210(w)

7-'5

JOB NO:

WITH EVERY OBSTACLE COMES PERSPECTIVE WEALTH MANAGEMENT • WEALTH ADVISORY • WEALTH PLANNING

As your trusted advisor in wealth management, every challenge we overcome together is in preparation of what lies ahead.

Wise about wealth. For more information please visit www.absawealth.com

Absa Wealth, a division of Absa Bank Ltd, Reg No 1986/004794/06. Authorised Financial Services Provider. Reg No 523. Registered Credit Provider Reg No NCRCP7.

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