Epic 2007 follow up for some Wannabees

Stage 7: Villiersdorp - Kleinmond

Start: Villiersdorp Sport Fields

Finish: Municipal Day Camp Area

Distance: 116km

Ascent: 1990m

Stage 7 results

I took holiday today and went with Thierry on the bike to meet the Epic wannabees.
It was very hot today and they all suffered from the heat as they mainly trained in the cool mornings. Nevertheless they rode very hard and Danie managed to enter the TOP 100 overall. This is unbelievable taking in consideration the many professional and overseas teams taking part in the Cape-Epic.

Weather-wise it’s the best Epic ever and all of them are very glad to ride the Epic. No mechanical problems for the wannabees so far although Dane and Julian had a very bad puncture today costing them 20min to fix it. We saw only happy faces with big smiles and envied them!

Dolphin Mountainbike wins 7th Stage of 2007 Absa Cape Epic

Kleinmond, 30 March 2007: Bart Brentjens (NL) and Rudi van Houts (NL) of Team Dolphin Mountainbike finished first in the seventh stage of today's race with a time of four hours and forty nine seconds. However, Team Bulls, in a fight to the death with Team Cannondale-Vredestein 1, have once again taken the number one overall position with a three and a half minute lead. “I don’t recall ever having raced that fast before.” Says Stefan Sahm (D). ”We let Bart break off and focussed more on sticking to the wheels of Cannondale-Vredestein 1. As my pedal broke off, I thought the race was over. I was devastated. We asked everyone who passed us if they could help with a spare part and finally David George came past and offered me his. It took us some time to replace it. I think all in all, we must have lost about five minutes if not more. Afterwards, we continued with full speed. We had great legs.”

Today, 1 057 riders covered the 116 kilometres from Villiersdorp to Kleinmond with the total climb for the day adding up to 1 990 metres, in the end, presenting one of the most spectacular views of the entire race and a finish line right along the beach.

Bart Brentjens and Rudi van Houts put the hammer down on the first climb, with a precisely planned attack. “I said to Rudi that if we want another stage win, we must break away immediately after the start. We have to be two minutes ahead before we reach the top of the first climb.” says Bart. “Roel and Jakob came after us so fast that it was scary. They had a technical problem on the big asphalt climb. After that, we were on our own. I did a lot of work, in fact, too much work. I was really struggling for the last 20 kilometres. I had also not been feeling too well over the last few days.” He comments on the riding of his opponents: “They seemed to be so afraid of technical problems that they weren't riding smoothly. They were concentrating on not getting a flat tyre and when they finally did, their focus wavered.”

Andrew Mclean (RSA) and Damian Booth (RSA) of Cycle lab clinched another stage win today with a time of four hours and thirty nine minutes increasing their overall lead by three minutes. Team Duravit's Yolande de Villiers (RSA) and Anke Erlank (RSA) continue to hold their leading position, winning yet another stage today with a time of four hours and fifty five minutes. Ivonne Kraft (D) and Nico Pfitzenmaier (D) of Team Maloja-BTS Time for Travel placed first for their second time in the Mixed classification with a time of four hours and forty eight minutes ahead of Team IMC/Mongoose who are still in the overall lead by twenty minutes. Nico says: “Today, we had a very good rhythm and we were very fast. We even passed the leading ladies. The scenery on the 20 kilometre climb up Groenlandberg was mind-blowing. I don't think I will ever forget these stunning views. The Absa Cape Epic presents South Africa at its best. You go through areas that you would never see as an ordinary tourist. Sharing this amazing experience with all riders creates a very strong bond regardless of who you are or where you're from. We all share the same joy and passion.”

One Speed Wonders

At the Absa Cape Epic, one of the overriding topics when it comes to ‘tech talk’, is the discussion over lightweight versus full suspension bikes. There are many pros and cons for both. However, on the rocky climbs this year, dual suspension riders were reassured that they had made the right choice and hard tail users wished they could reverse theirs. Now imagine someone riding this bumpy route with no suspension at all, not even in the front and, to make it worse, using only one gear… A team at the 2007 Absa Cape Epic does just that. Team 23, One Speed Wonders, rides the entire race from Knysna to Lourensford on a single speed bike with no suspension at all. 46 year old Shaun Weber (RSA) from Cape Town and 49 year old Chris Wurster (USA) from New York, have never met before. The got in touch through the Absa Cape Epic online forum, when Shaun was searching for a partner for a single speed team. While Shaun prepared himself on coastal single trails for the Absa Cape Epic, Chris trained in Central Park during the week. To absorb the shocks experienced on the route, their bikes are equipped with fatter tyres that have less tread. Of course, they ride much slower than others, placing them between the 825th and 916th rank in the Men’s classification over the past seven stages, but they came to finish the race and not to win it.

Lead The Way

This year, Toyota have come on board as sponsor of the 2007 Absa Cape Epic presented by adidas. They support the race organisation with twenty one vehicles, mainly off-road models. Toyota also has one team in the race which, according to Ace Dube, spokesperson for Toyota, has been doing quite well. “They've only been two hours behind the champions which is quite a remarkable achievement for them. I'm sure we'll see more teams participating next year.” Dube says that the real spirit of the race is the essence of the Toyota brand values – continuous improvement and endurance. “Just like the Absa Cape Epic, Toyota gives clients what they are looking for, so we are very happy to be part of this race, that epitomises that spirit.”

“The feedback has been fantastic and most of the employees back at Toyota have been following the Absa Cape Epic, not only because we have a team taking part but because it is something different to cricket, rugby and soccer. We are planning to build on this relationship going forward and hopefully it is not just a short term engagement. We will be looking forward as to how we can grow the race and how we, at Toyota, can participate in helping the competition to be a lot bigger than it is right now.” adds Dube.

Grand Finale

Stage eight, the final stage, will see riders covering an exhausting 75 kilometres with a total climb of 1 285 metres. The final day of the 2007 Absa Cape Epic starts in Kleinmond, with riders crossing the Palmiet River on a short and fast tar road, before turning into the Kogelberg nature reserve, riding alongside the Palmiet River on jeep track and over the mountain. Riders will pass through the apple orchards of Elgin and Grabouw as the route works its way to the summit of Sir Lowry pass. Here, riders will be forced to carry their bikes for about one kilometre down slippery rocks that still bear the marks of the Voortrekker wagon wheels. This hike-a-bike section on the Gamtou pass is a national heritage site and special permission has been given for the first time to descend this historic track. After dropping onto the railway line for a fun, bumpy few kilometres, it's into the magnificent Lourensford Wine Estate for the all-new Absa Cape Epic finish, where relieved and exhausted riders will finally cross the finish line.

Riders will be met with great celebrations, as organisers of the race have put together the best finish line party yet. A ceremony will take place awarding riders with their medals and announcing the official results, and thereafter, new and old members of Amabubesi will have the opportunity to revel in the glory of their Herculean accomplishment in one of the most exquisite settings in the world.

Warm regards,

Sonja Gueldner-Hamel

Absa Cape Epic

Media Director

Epic 2007 follow up for some Wannabees

Stage 6: Montagu - Villiersdorp

Start: Montagu Primary School

Finish: Villiersdorp Sport Fields

Distance: 111km

Ascent: 1565m

Stage 6 results

Cannondale-Vredestein 1 Back on Top in 6th Stage of Absa Cape Epic

Villiersdorp, 29 March 2007: Roel Paulissen (B) and Jakob Fugslang (DK) of Cannondale-Vredestein 1 inched back into the overall leaders’ spot, winning the sixth stage of the Absa Cape Epic with a stage time of three hours, forty six minutes and 34.7 seconds. They once again hold the coveted top overall spot with a mere 11 seconds separating them from their closest competitors, German Team Bulls.

“This is such a crazy race”, says Jakob Fuglsang. “It is so highly competitive that each day is a non stop battle. You have to fight for every second and use each and every opportunity to push away. On the other hand that’s what makes it so interesting and exciting. We are all, more or less, of equal strength. And of course, everyone is tired. Roel is pulling me a lot and Karl is pulling Stefan a lot. And when one team puts the hammer down, the other has to follow. So today we decided to attack on all the climbs. We knew, from previous days, that we are the strongest team uphill and that we have a big advantage on the rocky terrain with our full suspension bikes. On each climb we gained about 40 to 50 seconds today. Bart was closest to us on the rocky climb. Rudi was falling behind and that was lucky for us because they could have caught us.”

Silvio Bundi and Gion Manetsch In 3rd Place

Today’s podium saw another new team claim stage honours. Last year’s champion, Silvio Bundi, (CH) and his team partner Gion Manetsch (CH) came in third today in a time of three hours, fifty one minutes and 7.9 seconds. “We didn’t have such a good start into this year’s Absa Cape Epic,” says Silvio. “After the first two days we knew that we would not play a role in winning the overall race. We had a lot of punctures and mechanical problems. Yesterday we decided to have a rest day – if you could call it a rest day when you sit five hours in the saddle. But we took it easy and simply enjoyed the stage. Last night we felt much better so we decided to try for the podium on the last three days. It worked. We caught Shan Wilson (RSA) and Jacques Rossouw (RSA) at the last water point but we had no chance to go with Karl and Stefan. Karl had too much power today. Gion had great legs. Mine were not that good, but good enough to keep up with him.”

Taste of Heaven

No surprises in the masters and ladies races today, with Andrew Mclean (RSA) and Damian Booth (RSA) of Cycle Lab taking the masters stage by two minutes and maintaining their overall lead. „A lot of people told us that we wouldn’t be able to beat Linus van Onselen and Doug Brown” says Andrew Mclean. ”But we believed we would. And we were right. The only time Linus and Doug got away from us was when we got a puncture. Now we hope to maintain our lead all the way to the finish. But you never know - anything can happen in these kinds of races. What is great though, is that we have a good fight going on in the Masters category. Apart from the Men’s, ours is the closest race, which makes every victory even sweeter. I enjoy proving that ‘roadies’ - as mountain bikers like to call us - can ride off-road, too. In fact, on the last day I will wear white socks to greet the road racers out there.” The Absa Cape Epic is Andrew Mclean’s first big mountain bike race. He only got his mountain bike three months ago. “When my mates told me I must do the Absa Cape Epic, they said it is like a road race on dirt roads. Well, that is certainly not true and there is quite a lot of carrying, pushing and walking involved which I didn’t expect.”

As presenter of Supersport’s Super Cycling, Andrew Mclean is approached a lot by other cyclists. His advice for Absa Cape Epic virgins: “You must build up a lot of endurance for this race and you need mental toughness as much as physical strength.”

Anke Erlank Admires Backmarkers

Yolande de Villiers (RSA) and Anke Erlank (RSA) won yet another stage for Team Duravit with an outstanding time of four hours, twenty one minutes and 33.8 seconds, putting them in the strongest position for an overall victory, their time gap being 3 hours and 20 minutes. “I simply cannot get over how people can put themselves through this race, finish after ten hours and then still have to feed themselves, wash their clothes, fix their bikes and so on”, says Anke Erlank. “In fact, having your bike fixed every day gets really expensive for an average guy taking part in the Absa Cape Epic. But that’s the nature of this race. Everything is epic. It is a brag race. You want to brag that you have been there, done that and got the T-shirt. The amateurs are the guys that make it. And in a way I benefit from them because they all buy their equipment and that’s why I have sponsors who can equip me.

Germans Ivonne Kraft and Nico Pfitzenmaier Claim First Stage Win

The Mixed classification saw some changes with Olympian Ivonne Kraft (D) and three times Ironman finisher Nico Pfitzenmaier (D) of Team Maloja-BTS Time for Travel taking the stage ahead of Team IMC/Mongoose who have managed to hold onto their overall lead by 26 minutes. “We finally made it in our third attempt”, says Nico. “For the past two days we built up a good lead and then we had a nasty puncture. On stage four, Ivonne hit a wire that ripped her rear wheel, and yesterday a sharp stone cut her tyre at a river crossing. In both cases we lost a lot of time. Today there were no defects, but Ivonne was feeling a bit sick at the start of the race. She had a sore throat so we decided not to push too hard but to ride at our own pace instead. We still caught a good group up front although we struggled a bit in the flat stretches. The cheering children along the route are really motivating. They get so excited when you touch their hands. Seeing their resplendent eyes gives you so much energy that you forget about your pain and strain. Another energy booster is the stunning scenery. I really enjoyed today’s stage. I rode ahead a few times in order to take pictures. After all, you want to cherish these memories for a lifetime.”

South Africans Come in Strong

Today, riders covered 111 kilometres of lush Robertson farmland, rolling hills, fun descents and torturous hike-a-bike sections on their way from Montagu to Villiersdorp, the total climb for the day adding up to 1 565 metres. Twelve kilometres into the race, the South African Teams, Raleigh MTN Energade 1 and 2, adidas/William Simpson and Exel/Specialized attacked on the transition from the tar to the sand road. “This was not planned,” says Shan Wilson (RSA) who is the only South African rider who won three stages of the Absa Cape Epic over the past three years. “I looked at Mannie Heymans (NAM) and I instantly felt that he was planning to break away. So I said to Jacque, “let’s go with Mannie.” In the end we were four South African teams breaking away. Kevin Evans (RSA) and Brandon Stewart (RSA) were the first we lost as they had a flat tyre. Among the six of us, we shared the work until the second water point when we approached the climb on the tar road. We had achieved a four and a half minute gap. In the hike-a-bike section, our group was broken up. The Europeans are much better runners so Roel and Jakob passed us right then and there. Next we were caught by the Bulls Team and finally, at the third water point, I had to tighten my right cleat and Silvio and Gion passed us. Team Dolphin attacked us on the last tar section before they finished sixteen seconds ahead of us in fourth place. I was a little disappointed but I was also happy to finish in the top five of such a world class field.” Shane is proud that he can now race the big guns in his ‘back yard’ because the Absa Cape Epic is attracting more and more pro riders each year. “I think it’s quite impressive that we still have three South African teams in the top ten this year. Tomorrow is a new day. I will continue fighting. You actually have to put a bullet in my head to stop me. I’m an old school guy and I will fight to the death.”

Stage seven will see riders facing two thirds of the Groenlandberg monster climb before enjoying a long stretch of rolling jeep track through natural fynbos. A gradual climb takes the riders up and over the mountain before they get to enjoy a roller coaster descent into the Lebanon forest area where fire roads and cool shady forests await. After this all-too-short forest section, a quick dip under the N2 ends with breathtaking panoramic ocean views as riders descend into the sleepy coastal town of Kleinmond.

Warm regards,

Sonja Gueldner-Hamel

Absa Cape Epic

Media Director

Epic 2007 follow up for some Wannabees

Stage 5: Barrydale - Montagu

Start: Barrydale Primary School

Finish: Montagu Primary School

Distance: 102km

Ascent: 1590m

Stage 5 results

Change In Leader Jersey at 5th Stage of Absa Cape Epic

Montagu, 28 March 2007: 493 Of the original 603 team in the mens, ladies, masters and mixed classifications of the 2007 Absa Cape Epic started the fifth stage today, kicking off at 7.00am in Barrydale with the stage finish line 'only' 102 kilometres away in the picturesque town of Montagu. With a total day’s climb of 1 590 metres, today's stage saw a shake up in the Men's classification with Bart Brentjiens (NL) and Rudi van Houts (NL) of team Dolphin Mountainbike taking their first stage win in a time of three hours and forty one minutes and team Bulls with Karl Platt (D) and Stephan Sahm (D) moving back into the overall leaders' position. They overtook Roel Paulissen (B) and Jakob Fuglsang (DK) of team Cannondale-Vredestein 1 who had, until yesterday, maintained an overall lead since Sunday. Karl says: “I had already accepted the fact that we would finish this race in second place this year but it's awesome to reclaim the overall lead. However, it would have been better to get the jersey one or two days later as three days of battle still lie ahead.”

Bart Brentjens and Rudi van Houts were overjoyed by their first stage win. “In 2005 we won seven out of eight stages”, he says. “Back then it became almost a given to be wearing the yellow leader jersey. This year, with a world class field at the start, it is even difficult to make it onto the podium, which makes a stage victory even more special. So we are very happy about winning today, particularly after not feeling too well this morning as I had some stomach cramps. Although you may consider today’s stage a short leg, we still had to complete 100 kilometres.”

The Attack of Kashi Leuchs and Axel Bult

Today's stage saw a change of mindset of Cannondale-Vredestein rider, Kashi Leuchs (NZ) who felt obliged to support his fellow team mates in Stage 3 of the Absa Cape Epic leaving his riding partner, Axel Bult (NL), behind. “After the controversial discussions about the 3rd stage, we realised that team sport is what this race is all about. Axel and I decided that from now on we would ride our own race and not get involved in team politics which could change the nature of the event. Yesterday we had a very easy day, so last night I had the crazy idea about attacking right from the start. So that's what we did. After five kilometres when we arrived at the first steep climb, we put the hammer down and about five teams followed us. We were in the front all day up until the last three kilometres. Then Axel was 'parked'. You should have heard him wheeze...but this race is really hard for him, particularly being 20 kilograms heavier than everyone else. Besides, he never rode a marathon before, and now he is riding five marathons in five days.” Axel was only informed on Tuesday last week that he would be riding the Absa Cape Epic with Kashi Leuchs to replace Fredrik Kessiakoff. I usually ride CycleCross and Cross Country races. When the course is reasonably flat I can make it onto the podium. I was really intimidated to ride with this guy and hoped to be able to stick on his back wheel for the entire tour.” Instead he was taking the lead in the flat sections today and helped to secure the first podium place for team Cannondale-Vredestein 2 at the 2007 Absa Cape Epic. For Axel, this is the biggest international success to date.

The True Spirit of the Absa Cape Epic

Today, new team mates, Christoph Sauser (CH) and David George (RSA) also kept the pace of the leading group and shared the work with team Dolphin, team Bulls and team Cannondale-Vredestein 2. However, once the finish line was in sight, they backed off to give way to the top five teams in the classification. Team managers and pro riders had agreed to this protocol yesterday, in order not to confuse the public and media as Sauser and George are no longer listed in the classification.

In the Ladies catergory, Anke Erlank (RSA) and Yolandé De Villiers (RSA) of team Duravit took yet another stage win with a time of four hours and nineteen minutes extending their overall lead to almost three hours. Stage winners in the Mixed classification, Yolande Speedy (RSA) and Paul Cordes (RSA) of team IMC/Mongoose claimed their fifth victory in a time of four hours and twenty four minutes while Linus van Onselen (RSA) and Doug Brown (RSA) of team ABSA Masters arrived at the finish line first in the Masters category after four hours and fourteen minutes.

From Strength To Strength

54 Year old, Linus van Onselen, who suffered from a bladder infection on day 1 and was taking anti-biotics until yesterday, finally recovered to normal strength levels. “On the last 25 kilometres, we were riding with the leading Masters team, but of course we had to do all the work while they simply watched us from behind. However, they did give way when we reached the finish line so that we could attain the stage win. Compared to us, I think that Andrew Mclean and Damien Booth make up a stronger pair. But Doug Brown is the strongest team mate I've ever ridden with. He is such an all-rounder, great in the uphills, very strong in technical downhills and pushes hard in the flat sections. I can only assist with being a good climber.” For the past years, Doug and Linus have been competitors in the Veterans category. For this year's Absa Cape Epic, both were looking for the strongest partner and both ended up contacting each other. Linus, who works as a director of Property Management for a private hospital group, started track and road cycling at the age of sixteen. He only converted to mountain biking in 1995. This sport has changed his lifestyle. “Today, I only ride road to get mileage. To me, mountain biking is a much more user friendly sport. Instead of getting up in the dark and riding on the road at 6am, you take your family and go into the mountains at any given time of the day. If it wasn't for mountain biking, I wouldn't have cycled up to the age of 54 and since I'm such a competitive person, and still partake in lots of competitions, this sport keeps me going.” Linus has also infected his family with the mountain biking virus. Together with his wife and his 27 year old son, he has won the family category in the The Cape Argus Pick 'n Pay Cycle Tour, seven years in a row.

Saving The Day

So far, the Absa Cape Epic riders from 43 different countries, have cycled a total of 584 kilometres and climbed a total of 9 805 metres. After enduring hardships like falls, fatigue, dehydration, tendinitis, gastro, muscle aches and saddle sores, it is no surprise that many teams have dropped out or didn’t make the daily cut-off time of 5:00pm. Today’s fifth stage saw 1077 of the original 1206 riders at the start line, out of which, 53 were individual finishers (riders who’s team mate pulled out of the race and who are now completing the Absa Cape Epic with a new partner) and 38 blue number board riders (participants who have been swept in one stage and therefore no longer qualify to be an Absa Cape Epic finisher.).

In the first four days of the race, 554 people consulted Medi-Clinic's four race doctors and six nurses. However, this number includes any consultation purpose from getting minor scratches and bruises to cases of serious dehydration or biking injuries. The Absa Cape Epic's medical team was also called out for three consecutive nights, to assist road accidents, non-related to the race. Basil Bonner, head of the Medi-Clinic's team, says, the team is prepared for anything and carries all equipment, such as the Jaws of Life, necessary to assist in such emergencies. Riders are constantly monitored along the route by 25 ECP (Emergency Care Practitioner) marshals and eight paramedics on quad bikes. The medical team's support of the riders' goal in finishing the race, is evident throughout. Yesterday, Lindsay Baker, from New Zealand, who suffered from a mild concussion after a fall, was pleading to continue the stage in order to be a finisher. The medical team deemed her physically able to do so but nevertheless, escorted her right to the end to ensure her safety.

Tomorrow, riders will again be challenged to another gruelling 111 kilometres as the race moves from Montagu to Villiersdorp in the sixth stage of this year’s Absa Cape Epic presented by adidas, with a total climb of 1 565 metres. After a blistering 5km road start through Cogmanskloof, the race heads into the farmlands of the lush Robertson valley. Exiting the farmland, the riders have a scenic 25 kilometres, on tar, before heading up the day's big challenge, a six kilometre hike-a-bike section, followed by open roads and fast descents all the way to the foot of Rooihoogte. The route takes on a tortuous climb to the radio mast above the town, before descending to the finish line in Villiersdorp.

Warm regards,

Sonja Gueldner-Hamel

Absa Cape Epic

Media Director

THE WANNABEES ARE VIGILANT! THEY RIDE ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THE ROAD AND MAXIMUM TWO ABREAST.

Epic 2007 follow up for some Wannabees

Stage 4: Ladismith - Barrydale

Start: Ladysmith High School

Finish: Barrydale Primary School

Distance: 121km

Ascent: 1285m

Stage 3 results

Better and faster day after day! Our friends are riding tactically perfect by increasing there speed and climbing up in the overall standing when their competitors are getting slower. Their actual overall standing out of 602 teams looks as following

Paul and Jan 48/602
Hannele and Greg 88/602
Danie and Evert 111/602
Dane and Julian 168/602
Billy and Paul 241/602
Ernst and Henri 259/602
Paul and Alwyn 327/602

Ralph Naef and Jose Hermida Win 4th Stage of Absa Cape Epic

Barrydale, 27 March 2007: The fast and furious stage 4 of the Absa Cape Epic presented by adidas kicked off at 7.00am in Ladismith today, with the riders covering 121 kilometres of tarred roads and farm roads, short climbs and a few technical obstacles. They then moved through the Leopard Rock game reserve and passed well known landmark, Ronnie's Sex Shop, where sandy jeep tracks and wildlife were visible. Then the route led onto more rocky terrain for the final 30km into Barrydale. The total climb of the day added up to a total of 1 285 metres.

Team Multivan Merida Biking Team 1 have clinched their first stage win in the fourth stage of the 2007 Absa Cape Epic. Team members Ralph Naef (Switzerland) and Jose Hermida (Spain) crossed the finish line in Barrydale at around 11.00am, having clocked a winning stage time of four hours seven minutes and 52.4 seconds. Their closest competitors, Karl Platt (Germany) and Stephan Sahm (Germany) of Team Bulls came in just nine seconds behind them. “It was our best day today but it was also the toughest because we were pushing so hard from the start to the finish. We actually planned it this way. The South Africans rode a phenomenal race as they maintained their lead up until the final 20 kilometres of the race. We were sharing the lead work within our group today, with Karl Platt (Germany) and Stefan Sahm (Germany) with whom we stayed together up until the finish”, says Naef of today's stage.

Leaders defended after 4th stage

Today’s stage saw all top riders in the Ladies, Masters and Mixed classifications defending their leading positions. Anke Erlank (RSA) and Yolande de Villiers (RSA) of team Duravit came in just 39 minutes after stage winners Ralph Naef (CH) and Jose Hermida (E) of team Multivan Merida Biking 1 in a time of 4:48.01,7. “Compared to the previous days, today was a walk in the park”, Yolande quipped. “There was much less climbing involved, but the terrain was very rocky and sandy so once again our bones are aching. Luckily we caught a nice group along with the Mixed leaders Yolande Speedy and Paul Cordes and we rode well together.” Despite their overall lead time of more than one and a half hours, the two South African ladies are still racing like maniacs. “We push ourselves every day to give our best. We are just too competitive. But I couldn’t have found a better partner. She is the ultimate team mate and has made this Absa Cape Epic my best experience to date”, Anke Erlank adds.

Here We Go South Africa

Kevin Evans (RSA) and Brandon Stewart (RSA) of team Raleigh MTN Energade 1, the Best African Team in the race, took the lead for two thirds of today’s stage impressing not only their fellow countrymen, but also the international pro riders in the field. For over 70 kilometres they maintained a lead between 2½ -3½ minutes. Expectations ran high when the team passed the final vantage point and still had not been caught. The smell of victory was in the air, when suddenly team Multivan Merida Biking 1 and team Bulls overtook them in the final stretch 20 kilometres before the finish. ”When the guys passed us I thought well we can still make it onto the podium. However, when Roel and Jakob overtook us on the last five kilometres, I was devastated. We were riding 25km per hour uphill and all of a sudden those guys were flying past us as if they were riding at 55km per hour. There was nothing we could do. Our legs were revolting, there was simply no power left. Had it been 20 seconds later on the top of the hill, we might have been able to go with them. We didn’t threaten them; they just wanted to defend their lead.” Kevin and Brandon discussed the previous night that they wanted to attack on day 4. “Fortune and favour is with the brave”, Kevin says. “And today was the best day for us to give it try.” They decided that when the guys let them break away, they would give it a go. Later they heard that Ralph had decided not to chase them, but to allow the SA champs their moment of glory. Ralph Naef said he was actually blown away at how long the South Africans could maintain that lead as he was pacing to catch up with them and they never appeared. “When Ralph passed us he encouragingly patted my back and said ‘wow, great job, come on, stay with us’ inviting us to ride along but at that point we were too finished. But it was nice to get that bit of recognition from a world champion.” Now Kevin and Brandon will concentrate on keeping their African leader jersey and riding consistently with the hope of even climbing up a place. “Before the start of the 2007 Absa Cape Epic, no-one believed that we could place in the top ten with such a world class field at the start. So actually we are happy to prove them wrong.”

From asphalt cowboy to mountain goat

Roadie David George (RSA), who teamed up with Mountain Bike World Cup Champion Christoph Sauser (CH), after his partner Rupert Rheeder became sick and withdrew from the race, gave an impressive performance today. The multiple Giro del Capo champion thoroughly enjoyed riding with the world’s best in the off-road category. “At first I was a bit intimidated by the option of riding with Christoph. After all, he is one of the best in his class”, George says. “But the two of us are very similar physically, so we are an evenly matched pair. Of course, he is a much better technician. It was really amazing to ride with these guys. Only when you see and feel what mountain biking is all about, can you improve. Christoph watched me during the ride today and tonight he will give me his feedback.” While all the other pro riders travel from stage to stage with a support crew, David and Rupert have been on their own, even sleeping in tents. Being ‘adopted’ by team Specialized for the second half of the race makes the Absa Cape Epic experience even more enjoyable for David. “Tomorrow I will also ride a Specialized bike. I only got my bike two weeks ago”, he says “I’m not that used to it and might as well change.” Currently having no sponsor gives him the freedom to spontaneous decisions, for instance wearing Christoph Sauser’s team colours during the race. He even considers a mountain biking career. “I’d like to take mountain biking more seriously. I really enjoy it. You need a different kind of power, but it suits my physique. It has to pay the bills, though. But if a team was approaching me with a good offer, I’d be keen to change.”

The Colour Red

Since March 2006, red has become the colour of the Absa Cape Epic. After a successful first event, Absa Corporate and Business Bank confirmed a three year title sponsorship of the Magical and Untamed African Mountain Bike Race. Life has since become easier for sponsorship manager of Absa, Matt Ellenbogen and his team. “Last year we only had six weeks to plan for the event due to coming on board at a late stage. This year we have had a lot of time to work and plan with the race organisation. We got a lot of activity in place to make the most of one of the top events in the country. The Absa Cape Epic is a new experience for many people. Every time we bring somebody along, we convert them to Absa Cape Epic followers. There's this incredible camaraderie and spirit among the riders and it's just infectious. If you're on the sides watching the teams, you pick up on it, you feel their enthusiasm and their pain. This year we have 12 teams in the race, a mix of pro riders, semi pro riders as well as teams of clients and bankers. We wanted to give our top clients the opportunity to ride the race. In the top end of the group, our Masters team won the third stage yesterday and our pro Mixed team is in the top three. They got a podium finish yesterday so we're very happy. The competition is much tougher this year, but we definitely feel the guys are getting a bit stronger.

Warm regards,

Sonja Gueldner-Hamel

Absa Cape Epic

Media Director

Epic 2007 follow up for some Wannabees

Stage 3: Oudtshoorn - Ladismith
Start: Langenhoven Gymnasium High School

Finish: Ladysmith High School

Distance: 128km

Ascent: 2425m

Stage 3 results

Danie is going hard and is about to enter the TOP 100. The riders were almost immediately faced with fast jeep track through arid, ostrich-filled plains, a mild start to the toughest climbing day of the 2007 event.

Riders Complete Toughest Climbing Stage of Absa Cape Epic

Ladismith, 26 March 2007: The first three days of the 2007 Absa Cape Epic, presented by adidas, have made for arguably the hardest start yet in the history of the race. 81 riders have already received a blue number board, meaning that they can ride the race but cannot be listed in the classification as they did not meet the cut off time in stage two. Nevertheless, spirits are high in the camp, with participants, particularly the top riders, agreeing that this is the best race yet, in terms of organisation, route structure and, most importantly, food.

Riders bid farewell to Oudtshoorn at 7.00am this morning, as they embarked on the third stage, faced with the toughest day of climbing, totalling 2 425 metres. This, after completing yesterday’s gruelling 132 kilometres, considered to be the most physically taxing stage of this year’s race. Weather conditions were perfect today with mild temperatures, clear skies and a slight breeze.

Ruthless Fiellie’s Folly

Today, the Absa Cape Epic route, designed by Leon Evans, took riders from Oudtshoorn to Ladismith through arid, ostrich country. A fast jeep track made for a high-speed start to the day, which was soon replaced by a crawling pace as the riders hit Fiellie’s Folly, a ruthless ascent of 430 metres at an average climb of 14 percent. Riders were then rewarded with one of the most enjoyable descents of the race – 30 kilometres of swift, open riding towards the next looming obstacle cheerfully dubbed the Calitzdorp Crusher. After completing the Crusher’s three steep kilometres of loose, stony track, they descended only to find themselves at the base of another climb up the Huis Rivier Pass. The final 35 kilometre stretch provided exhausted riders, graded, open roads and the exquisite scenery of Seweweekspoort, as they catapulted towards the finish line in Ladismith.

Johann Pallhuber and Rupert Rheeder drop out of race

Team Cannondale-Vredestein 1 clinched their second stage win and maintained their overall lead today as team members Roel Paulissen (B) and Jakob Fuglsang (DK) clocked a remarkable time of four hours, fifty-six minutes and 8.4 seconds. Their closest competitors, Team Bulls, were hot on the leaders’ tracks, coming in only three minutes behind them. With Ralph Naef (CH) and Jose Hermida (E) of Team Multivan Merida Biking 1 and Bart Brentjens (NL) and Rudi van Houts (NL) of Team Dolphin Mountainbike still securing positions in the top five, it’s still anyone’s guess as to who the overall winners will be. Today’s stage also saw the first top riders crossing the finish line without their racing partners. Defending champion Christoph Sauser (CH), Kashi Leuchs (NZ), and South Africa's road legend David George (RSA) received a time penalty of three hours as they left their team partners behind in order to race with the top. “Last night Johann and I decided to ride at our own pace” says Sauser. “I think the last two days have squeezed everything out of him and really pushed his limits. For me it was fun to ride with the leaders today even though I stayed at the back in order not to influence the race.” From tomorrow Christoph Sauser will team up with David George, following today’s drop out of their partners, Johann Pallhuber (I) and Rupert Rheeder (RSA) respectively. According to the rules of the Absa Cape Epic, riders who have lost their team mate during the race are permitted to partner with a new rider in order to complete it. These new teams, however, will not be classified.

Tomorrow, speed skills will come into play as the route eases off on climbing, and beefs up on fast, open road riding. Jose Hermida of Team Multivan Merida Biking 1 says of the race thus far: “I enjoyed today’s stage the most, so far. The scenery, the views and the mountains were beautiful, even if you had to suffer for it. It was one of those days when you are really proud to be a mountain biker because you get to see places that many other people will never see. Of course you see the back of your enemies in front of you too. When we came here, we said we didn’t want to burn the engine on the first day. We want to progress throughout the race and I think we're slowly getting there.”

Team Raleigh MTN Energade 1 with Kevin Evans (RSA) and Brandon Stewart (RSA) defended the jersey of the Best African Team today, placing 9th with a time of 5 hours, 18 minutes and 52.8 seconds. They are now ranked at 7th position overall.

Taking their first stage win in the Masters category were Linus van Onselen (RSA) and Doug Brown (RSA) of Team Absa Masters who came in with a final time of five hours, thirty-eight minutes and 48.2 seconds. They are now eight and a half minutes behind the leading team Cycle lab with Andrew Mclean and Damian Booth.

Team IMC/Mongoose consisting of South Africans Yolande Speedy (RSA) and Paul Cordes (RSA) clinched the top spot today in the mixed classification for the second day in a row, maintaining their overall lead by nearly twenty minutes.

Testing your puncture temperament

Today’s stage saw the ultimate test of mental endurance as the riders experienced a record-breaking number of punctures along the route. In spite of suffering from seven flats, Anke Erlank (RSA) and Yolande De Villiers (RSA) of Team Duravit still won their third stage in a row. The leading ladies were able to gain a lead of 'just' five minutes as opposed to their lead time of 35 minutes in yesterday’s stage. 2006 Ladies Champion, Kerstin Brachtendorf (D) of Team adidas Fiat Rotwild who came in second says of Anke and Yolande: “Those two ladies in front of us are impossible to catch, they are much stronger. Now we just want to focus on defending our second position overall. This year my partner and I had only met at the race. I didn’t know what to expect but I am really impressed by her strength. We compliment each other well.”

Thorns, sharp stones and rugged terrain set the scene for today’s route. Dolphin Mountainbike Team with Bart Brentjens and Rudi van Houts also struggled with five punctures today despite riding tubeless. “We had our first flat half hour into the race. All the back markers passed us. It took us forever to catch up with the front guys. The huge thorns ripped our tyres and the latex milk did not suffice. In the end we ran out of tubes so Silvio Bundi helped us out with his. We also had to stop at the Shimano Tech Zone for assistance and our last flat hit us just 10 kilometres before the end of the race”.

Another team that experienced a fair amount of bad luck with flats, was team adidas with top South African female rider, Hannele Steyn-Kotze (RSA) and Downhill World Champion, Greg Minnaar (RSA). “I have never seen a pro change a tyre so slow” Hannele quips, “but Greg never has to deal with this so he has no practice.” However, practice makes perfect, having experienced five punctures in stage two and one today… But ‘critique’ aside, Hannele raves about Greg’s climbing performance: “I invite all people who think Greg cannot climb, to come and watch this guy overtake people in the uphill. If we didn't have such bad luck, we could probably be in the top five in our category. We hope to catch that perfect day when we experience no mishaps. It is also a pleasure to watch him ride downhill. Greg’s riding is so smooth, whether there's a trail or not. There were some guys who tried to follow his line today but they immediately crashed.”

Greg says of himself that he really enjoys this kind of racing. “Downhill is a great sport when you're quick and young but I'll start training now for when I'm 50. Compared to the first year of the Absa Cape Epic the race and the quality of the organisation have improved dramatically. This one feels like a different race, from the route markings to the chill-out lounge to the delicious food.”

The general atmosphere in the tented village was one of palpable relief this afternoon, as the first gruelling three days came to an end. Tomorrow, riders will have a day of relative rest as they ride to Barrydale, over speedy, wide and open roads, with a total climb just over half of today’s massive 2 425 metres.

Warm regards,

Sonja Gueldner-Hamel

Absa Cape Epic

Media Director

THE WANNABEES RESPECT THE TRAFFIC SIGNS AND LAWS AND THEY WEAR ALLWAYS A HELMET WHEN THEY RIDE.

Hi Michel,

Not too sure whether this will get to you but trying for the first time on the blog. Thanks for the info from the Epic. I was sorry to hear that Erna had to bail due to stomach upset as they trained really hard.

See you over the weekend perhaps for a good ride.

Good luck to the other wannabee's still in the epic

John

Epic 2007 follow up for some Wannabees

Stage 2: Uniondale - Oudtshoorn

Start: Uniondale High School

Finish: Langenhoven Gymnasium High School

Distance: 132km

Ascent: 2245m

Stage 2 results

I spoke to Erill and Henri last evening.
There was bad news for Erna and Erill because they had to withdraw from the race. Erna ended up in hospital with a harsh tummy bug. It started the previous day already and was the source of severe dehydration. Nevertheless she wanted to start today but halfway to longest stage Erill decided it was better to stop the race. In the meantime she was discharged from hospital and is recovering at some friends place. I hope we will see her soon back on the bike.
Henri is going strong and his team is climbing up in the overall classification. He said that today’s stage was very rocky and technically difficult with steep climbs and risky down hills on loose gravel. They are confident for tomorrow’s stage.

2nd Stage of Absa Cape Epic Pushes Technical Skills to the Limit

Oudtshoorn, 25 March 2007: After an all-too-short rest, Absa Cape Epic riders set off on the second and longest stage of this year’s race, with the much-appreciated support and encouragement of the Uniondale community. Twelve hundred riders, each donning their team colours, made for a spectacular sight as they gathered at the Uniondale High School at 7.00am this morning for the start of the race.

Today’s Men’s race saw yesterday’s second place team, Cannondale-Vredestein 1, coming in first, with Roel Paulissen (Belgium) and Jakob Fugslang (Denmark) clocking a time of 4 hours, fifty-eight minutes and 24.6 seconds, making them today’s winners and the overall leaders in the race so far. Only three minutes behind them, were yesterday’s winners, Karl Platt (Germany) and Stefan Sahm (Germany) of Team Bulls with a time of five hours, thirty-one minutes and 35.3 seconds. Third and fourth places were clinched by the usual suspects, Bart Brentjens (Netherlands) and Rudi van Houts (Netherlands) of Team Dolphin Mountainbike and Ralph Naef (Switzerland) and Jose Hermida (Spain) of Team Multivan Merida Biking 1, respectively.

After yesterday’s brutal first stage, today riders completed the longest route of this year’s race, covering the endless 132 kilometres between Uniondale and Oudtshoorn. The first 40 kilometres followed the meandering Kamanassie River and gave riders the opportunity to steel themselves for the back-breaking Kamanassie Reserve – 35 kilometres worth of tough off-road riding. The exquisite scenery of the reserve carried riders through as they battled a 12 kilometre ascent up loose, rocky jeep tracks, the distance compounded by a full 800 metre climb. The route then cut through the Buffelsdrif Game Reserve, treating riders to their first glimpses of game – elephant, rhino and buffalo. Once at the high point for the day, 1 300 metres above sea level, riders had a short respite before being blindsided with the ironically named Stairway to Heaven – a hellish 1 kilometre stretch, climbing a massive 169 metres. Their technical skills were then pushed to the limit by a steep, loose and treacherous downhill track, taking them towards the final 50 kilometre stretch into Oudtshoorn. Potentially a fast and fun road race-type section, cross winds made this final sweep merciless, as some riders began to suffer from dehydration.

Today’s Masters winners and overall leaders were South Africans Andrew Mclean (RSA) and Damian Booth (RSA) of Team Cycle Lab, with Linus van Onselen (RSA) and Doug Brown (RSA) of Team Absa coming in second. Top South African female riders, Anke Erlank (RSA) and Yolande de Villiers (RSA) of Team Duravit came in at just over six hours securing the stage win and the coveted overall leaders position, with a time advantage of almost one hour.

Yolande Speedy (RSA) and Paul Cordes (RSA) of Team IMC/Mongoose successfully defended their leader jersey finishing in 20th place overall with a time of 5 hours, 53 minutes and 11,3 seconds. Ivonne Kraft (Germany), who placed 7th at the last Olympic Games, and her team partner, Nico Pfitzenmaier (Germany), used the technical stage today to move up one place to second position in the overall ranking.

Warm regards,

Sonja Gueldner-Hamel

Absa Cape Epic

Media Director

Epic 2007 follow up for some Wannabees

Stage 1: Knysna - Uniondale

Start: Knysna Waterfront

Finish: Uniondale High School

Distance: 101km

Ascent: 2660m

Stage 1 results

The 1st Stage of Absa Cape Epic Heralds Start of Best Race Yet

Uniondale, 24 March 2007: The 2007 Absa Cape Epic presented by adidas got off to a sufficiently gruelling start today, with the 1206 participating riders completing the first leg-crunching stage of the eight-day race. Hundreds of supporters gathered at the Knysna Waterfront to see riders set off on the first leg of the race at a chilly 7.00am.

The men’s race ended in a thrilling sprint-finish, with Team Bulls and Team Cannondale-Vredestein 1 vying for first place in the last few metres of the stage. Winners, Stefan Sahm (D) and Karl Platt (D) came in at 4:01.16,1, just 0.5 seconds ahead of Roel Paulissen(B) and Jakob Fuglsang (DK), whose official time was 4:01.16,6. With this somewhat unexpected result for first place, the remainder of the top five reads like a who’s who of mountain biking, with Ralph Naef (CH), reigning UCI World Marathon Champion, and team mate Olympic medalist Jose Hermida (E) coming in third, last year’s Absa Cape Epic winner Silvio Bundi (CH) and Gion Manetsch (CH) fourth and Olympic Gold medallist Bart Brentjens (NL) and Rudi van Houts (NL) fifth.

“This is my inaugural Absa Cape Epic and the first time that Karl and I ride together in a team race”, says Stefan Sahm. “I can hardly believe that we won the first stage, neither one of us expected it. And to be the first to put on the leader jersey at the 2007 Absa Cape Epic is very special. I’ve really enjoyed the ride today, the scenery was gorgeous. But I had to push hard to keep up with Karl. He was the stronger one.” The overwhelming display of emotion when Stefan and Karl had crossed the finish line could not be denied. “For us this victory is very important”, Karl explains. “We have formed a new team with new sponsors who are very motivated to work with us and now we can give something back. Of course, there was also a bit of luck involved, too because we we’ve been riding together with Roel and Jakob and then won the sprint finish.”

The first stage challenged riders to a total of 101 kilometres with 2 660 metres of climbing. The initial 50 kilometres saw over 600 two-person teams moving through lush indigenous forest, with 660 metres of ascent in just the first 20 kilometres. Teams then headed north, leaving the shade of the forest behind them, to complete the remainder of the route under the harsh Klein Karoo sun, with the major test of the day still to come. On reaching the water point at the base of the Prince Alfred’s Pass, teams were faced with an exhausting climb of 14 kilometres and 272 metres up the Pass, topped with a false crest 2 kilometres short of the full height. It was here that team Cannondale-Vredestein 1 put the hammer down and attacked. Team Bulls and team Dolphin with Bart Brentjens and Rudi van Houts were the only ones able to sustain the pace. While the top riders played race tactics in the gruelling ascent, tired legs were tested in the back of the field in the final stretch to Uniondale with the loose and twisty historic Wagon Trail leading riders into the town to the finish line.

Defending Masters champion Linus van Onselen (54) of team Absa had a bad start into the race experiencing cramps but a great deal of support from his team mate, Doug Brown (46), who used to be one of his strongest competitors in previous years. “The end of the race was a dry, long and difficult climb,” explained Linus at the finish line. “The last climb was made even more difficult by loose stones that prevented me from getting a rhythm. But I always say it's not how you start, it's how you finish.” Linus and Doug finished third today with a five and a half minute delay.

The leading Ladies team, Duravit, with Anke Erlank (RSA) and Yolande De Villiers (RSA), rode a phenomenal race today finishing in 33rd position overall and just 44 minutes after World Cup Champion, Roel Paulissen. Yolande is a mother of three and works full time, training early mornings and late at night. Anke felt that the strength of her team partner had pulled her through today’s race at a time when she had ‘no legs’.

Once in Uniondale, riders were met with hundreds of community supporters, mostly children, proudly waving hand-made flags. Even more spectacular for first timers to the Absa Cape Epic was the first sighting of the tented race village; a regimental spread of more than a thousand tents, dining marquees, masseuse stalls and mobile homes. The energy was at fever pitch as local and international media swarmed on and off the field seeking interviews with the top riders from all over the world.After a re-fuel and rest, riders will set off at 7.00am tomorrow morning, to face the second stage, spanning from Uniondale to Oudtshoorn. This leg will see riders covering 132 kilometres and 2 245 metres of climbing, complete with the ironically named Stairway to Heaven – a brutal one kilometre section that climbs 169 metres at over 22 per cent.

Warm regards,

Sonja Gueldner-Hamel

Absa Cape Epic

Media Director

The following extract comes from the A.A. Magazine, The Motorist

1. BE ALERT
- Be aware and ride defensively.
- Be prepared to manoeuvre for safety.
- Beware of parked cars. The car could be about to pull out into the traffic, or someone could open a door.
- Watch for cars entering from driveways. Most bicycle collisions occur at intersections - be extra careful and always use hand signals.

2. BE SEEN
- Make sure that drivers can see you - make eye contact with them.
- Be predictable - signal your turns and point left or right.
- Use lights and reflective clothing when riding at night.

3. BE EQUIPPED
- Always wear a helmet.

4. BE SAFE
- Traffic signs and laws apply to cyclists too - obey them.
- Ride in single file on the left-hand side of the road.
- Ride at least one metre from the curb so you can move around road hazards.
- Do not weave in and out of traffic or around parked cars.
- Use the appropriate lane. For example, do not ride in a left-turn only lane if you are going straight through the intersection.
- Never cycle while under the influence of alcohol.

Tuesday, March 20, 2007

We have had a great response from everyone that we have asked in the last week to be part of this dream that Hanno and myself have; to help our disabled people enjoy the only sport they can participate in. It is privilege to be able to play sport.It is special for us social sportsmen to be able to participate in the same events as the professionals. Events like the Cape-Epic and therefore Evert and I are going to enjoy every momentThe support for this trust in the last week has been overwhelming. at the moment friends, colleagues and friends of friends have pledged a total of R30 000. And it seems that if we can manage a top 50 even more. MAD make a differnce has made a telling contribution and we take our hats off to the vision of Francois Pienaar, Deon Huysamen and friends.Christoff Sauzer, world cup mountain bike champ and last year's winner has met with Hanno and have given him spezialized cycling gear and will spent time with him.Thanks to Thys Lombard and Michel de Clippel for media support.

Danie Morkel

http://hannoburger.blogspot.com/

DistrictMail 22/03/2007 10:22 AM - (SA)

Winner of 24 hour solo race to ride Cape Epic

At least 20 mountainbikers from the Helderberg will be among the 1 086 cyclists riding in the 2007 Absa Cape Epic, an 886 km cross country route held over eight days from Knysna to the Lourensford Wine Estate in Somerset West.

A total of 42 nations will be represented at this now world famous event and riders from as far as Brazil, Canada, Norway, Hong Kong and Australia will join in this unique event - including Olympic gold medallists, world champions and reigning UCI World Cup champions (riders must compete in teams of two).
The Epic has within four years become not only the largest full-service mountain bike stage race in the world, but also, globally the most televised bike event of all time.
Riders will complete a total climb of 15 045 metres - the equivalent of riding nearly twice up Mount Everest and pass through pass through a number of national parks, five Cape Nature Reserves and vast tracts of protected terrain.
One Somerset West cyclist who will be riding in the race is Dane Walsh, who himself has a number of impressive titles to his credit. Among these are winner of the Dirtopia 24 Hour Solo Endurance Ride - 37 laps of a 7,5 km through the night and finishing at 09:00, plus an excellent Cape Argus time of 2:47.
Dane said he and his riding partner, Julian Conrad, have been training hard for the Epic but will definitely not be racing, but riding it to enjoy it and the whole experience of the event. "We have been training since December and put in around 6 000 km in training for the race with an average of 15 to 16 hours a week (two hours every morning and two hours every evening).
"I have done most of my training on a road bike, basically because I'm a road cyclist. Myself and Julian will be happy to average between six to seven hours a day and finish in around 43 hours if all goes well. It is total concentration every metre of the way and one little slip in concentration could result in a fall and the end of the race.
"The top guys will average about four hours a day and finish in about 32 hours." He says that entering the race, paying his entry fee, getting a partner to ride with and getting a training programme all happened very quickly.
"At the beginning of November I got a training programme from Erica Green (who has represented South Africa in Mountainbiking at two Olympic Games) and the Sports Science Institute. We stuck to the programme and I believe it has gone well. I didn't really change my diet - I just ate a bit more carbohydrates."
Dane said Maverick Cycles would be providing back-up for five local teams in the form of a gazebo etc. Tents, food, water and masseurs will all be provided by the organisers at each stop over point.
The riders will average around 100 km a day for the 8 days before starting in Knysna on March 24 and finishing at Lourensford Estate on Saturday, March 31.
The first stage between Knysna and Uniondale will test riders with a gruelling 2 660 metre climb and Kevin Vermaak, director and founder of the Epic, said this is one the wildest routes to date.
Dane said that during one stage most of the riders, "except for the professionals" will have to carry their bikes up a 6 km jeep track which should take about an hour.
"I'm very excited to be riding this race and really looking forward to it. I think we're well prepared physically and emotionally and will be happy to finish in one piece in around 43 hours. If all goes well and I enjoy the ride - who knows, I may be back to race the Epic next year."

Bite sized version of Epic

For those who seek a bite-sized version of the Absa Cape Epic, the Cape Times Vigne à Vigne, a one-day mountainbike race, will be taking place on the last day of the Absa Cape Epic on the Lourensford Wine Estate.
For a more sedentary day there will be beer gardens, wine tastings, helicopter flips and entertainment for kids and adults throughout the day.
Corné and Twakkie of The Most Amazing Show will provide a little something for the ladies before South Africa's hottest jazz sensation, Goldfish, perform. Platinum and track-side hospitality suites are available for corporate block bookings, where breakfast, canapé's, lunch, tea and drinks will be served.
While the elevated platinum suites overlook the finish line, the track side suites are positioned right next to the final chute for the finish line, to provide spectators with an eye-level view of the winners as they come in.
Both of the packages include free entries into the Cape Times Vigne à Vigne and a day of fine dining to follow, while the platinum suites include helicopter flips over the region and the track side suites offer exclusive luxury showers and massage services.
For more information on the finish line party, entering the Cape Times Vigne á Vigne or booking a suite, visit www.vigne-a-vigne.com or www.cape-epic.com. For more information on the route and the race, visit www.cape-epic.com.

Hi Everyone,

Well not too much going on at the moment. Pretty good turnouts over the weekend taking into account that the Argus is a thing of the past.

Tomorrow, (Wed 21/3) is a public holiday so there will be a ride at 6.30am from Waterstone.

Turning point in the morning temp as well. Well on our way into Autumn, so dress accordingly, and the lights thing becomes more and more important.

The next couple of weeks will be rustig and then it’s time (believe it or not) to start looking at the DC. We will keep u informed.

For many the MTB season has arrived and it’s their time to really enjoy the “Off Road” challenges.

Quite a few in the Basin are going on the “EPIC Cycling Holiday” starting this Sat, enjoy.

Dis al vir nou,

Ons sal oor 10 dae of so weer gesels.

Goedgaan,

Ek.

Wannabee's Argus Results

Click on it for full view

If you want to publish your result send me an email mdcsport@hotmail.com

Vergelegen Medi-Clinic
Dr. Daniel Morkel

EPIC 2007

Dear friends, colleagues

My cycling partner, Evert Meintjies, and I have been entered for the 2007 Absa Cape Epic Mountainbike Race.

This is an international, 900km mountainbike stage race. It takes place in March 2007. It will take us eight days to complete the race that follows some of the roughest and most inaccessible routes between Knysna and Lourensford Estate in Somerset West. During the race all teams are responsible for their own bicycle maintenance along the way. Over five hundred teams will be taking part. As you can imagine, this event receives wide media coverage.

The international participants competing in this event are worldclass and winning the event is certainly not an option for us. Our goal is to give a good account of ourselves and our reward will be the satisfaction of preparing for and finishing an endurance event of this magnitude.

We have been cycling 15 to 16 hours per week, starting at 04h30 in the mornings in preparation for the event. Although it is a privilege to participate in this event, our families and colleagues make great sacrifices to enable us to participate.

So much time and effort goes into the preparation and participation in this event and we both feel that the effort could be of benefit to someone else, especially since our participation was made possible by Polaris Capital

A good friend of ours, Hanno Burger, is a 12 year old boy suffering from a debilitating disease called Dystonia. I have known him since his birth and he is a very talented and very pleasant young boy who for the past 2 years has been affected by this neuromuscular disease. At this stage he is paralysed in his lower limbs and is therefore unable to walk. He uses a wheelchair or crutches to get around. Despite his disability, he is an extremely pleasant and positive young fellow.
His credo is Hou Aan Nooit Nooit Opgee ( Hang on, never, ever give up)
He would love to have a special wheelchair to participate in wheelchair races, which is the only sport he can participate in at this stage of his illness. These specialised hand-driven wheelchairs are expensive and he will need about R40 000 to purchase one. He will need further funds if he qualifies for surgery at a later stage.

We are therefore challenging our friends and colleagues to make a donation for Hanno's wheelchair. It is also Hanno’s wish that the Hanno Burger trust fund will be of benefit other disabled sportsmen. He recently won the first handcycle race that he entered. At this event the conditions of wheelchairs and lack of decent equipment was distressing to him and that is where he would like to make a difference.

There are two ways you can participate.

The first is you can pledge a certain amount per kilometre that we complete (last year it was 920km for myself and 720km for my partner. This year the race is 880km long.

The other is to pledge money based on the position we achieve in the race and thereby challenge us to try our best for a great cause. We will give everyone regular updates via email

The money can be deposited in the following trust account:

Hanno Burger Trust
FNB Stellenbosch
Branchcode: 20-06-10
Account number: 62121852968 - cheque account

Please email me your pledge so that we can follow-up and also so that we can add your email address to our buddy list to give you regular updates.

Regards

DANIE MORKEL

danie@danmorkel.co.za

Argus pics

Send me your argus pics and I will put them on the blog
mdcsport@hotmail.com

Morning,

What a brilliant day yesterdays Argus turned out to be. One could not have asked or wished for better conditions and weather.

Well, I was pretty sceptical going into this one for various reasons and of course Murfy(Murphy) played his part with me at number 99 going into the start chute, but other than that everything went off according to plan.

Many thanks for all the calls and SMSs received before the race and afterwards.

In all the years that we have been involved with training and the Argus I have never had such positive feed back with regards to results.

Virtually without exception it would appear that all had PBs and that is awesome to say the least. I don’t have all the results yet but from Ronnie (being the oldest Wannabee I think—who rode a 3hrs 32m at plus 70) to Tony Owen who although suffering from a nasal/chest infection rode a PB and Alie as well. To Jenny, Wendy, Mandy, Ina and Lourene, Sanette/Henry (all sub 4hrs), Jack Ack who once again cracked a sub 3hrs, young Wynand at 15 doing a sub 3hr ride and and and…. I have left many out I suppose, but will cover them when I get the results. Petie who did a 3hrs and some secs. How close can one get? Anton on his MTB bike and LOVED it. Well done to Dom, Allister and Desray (sy wat so baie gekla het en nie fiks was nie het die hele tyd op my agterent gesit.)

The weeks morning rides have come to an end and the week/end rides start time will as from now be at 6.30am.

On the down side several had to withdraw because of illness one of those being Anton. Next time my man.

Ryan had to withdraw from the Giro on Fridays Vissershok Stage due to bad planning on my part and mechanical problems. N duur les om te leer. So much time, effort and money goes into the preparation of certain events en ai dis hartseer vir almal, ongeag waarin jy deelneem. BUT VASBYT. Next Year!!!!!

Don’t forget to go into the Wannabee Blog.

Go well and once again many thanks,

Erna en ek.