Ever felt that rush of adrenaline as you navigate a challenging trail, the wind whipping past your face? Mountain biking isn’t just a sport; it’s an experience, a therapy for the soul, as Tarryn Povey so eloquently puts it. And the Absa Cape Epic? It’s the ultimate test of that experience, pushing riders to their limits while showcasing the incredible spirit of community and resilience. Let’s dive into what makes this race so much more than just a competition, shall we?
The PedalForGood Leaders Jersey: Celebrating Women in Cycling
What if a race could celebrate not just speed, but also the grit and determination of everyday heroes? That’s exactly what the PedalForGood Leaders Jersey aims to do. As an official Absa Cape Epic charity, the Pedal Project utilizes mountain biking to empower children from historically disadvantaged communities. And what better way to reinforce that mission than by supporting the exceptional women competing in the Cape Epic, balancing full-time careers, studies, *and* motherhood?
Building on the success of the 2024 edition, the 2025 PedalForGood Leaders Jersey will continue to highlight the resilience of these inspiring athletes. It’s about amplifying their stories, providing recognition, and elevating the visibility of non-professional women competing at the sport’s highest level. It’s not *just* about mountain biking; it’s about building resilience to conquer mountains—both on the race and in everyday life.
The initiative has also received a boost with Pierre Jourdan Cap Classique becoming the title sponsor. Pierre Jourdan recognizes the achievements of this amazing group of women by raising a glass of MCC at the finish line. Moreover, they and La Clé Franschhoek have provided the GC winners with a two nights accommodation at their estate for winners and their partners.
Additional partners like The Hanger Bike Co, Lanzerac Hotel, Dryland and Cool Heat have contributed prizes to increase the rewards for the race.
What does it mean to PedalForGood? Juanita McKenzie sums it up perfectly: “The competition is always fierce between us all… it heightened it and gave us all some more inspiration to dig a little deeper, especially because it was for such a great cause.” Isn’t that what it’s all about?
Hear from the Riders
- Tarryn Povey: “It’s therapy for the soul!”
- Roxy Kemp: “It brings me closer to God… It also teaches me discipline and to work hard. “
- Hayley Smith: “Cycling, in general, has helped me cope through the lowest of lows and gave me the ultimate memories. “
- Juanita McKenzie: “So many reasons! The community, the challenge, the freedom, learning opportunities. It’s one of the best feelings in the world to ride a bike. “
These words echo the sentiment of so many who find solace, strength, and community in mountain biking. It’s more than a sport; it’s a lifestyle.
The Absa Cape Epic: A Constant Test of Resilience
As Jaco van der Linde, Founder of the Pedal Project, says, “Racing the Cape Epic as an amateur in the UCI field is a constant test of resilience.” These women show up, train hard, and compete at an elite level despite the daily challenges they face. The PedalForGood Leaders Jersey exists to acknowledge their efforts and ensure they receive the recognition they deserve.
Supporting the Movement: The Pedal Project
How can *you* get involved and make a difference? The Pedal Project is an official Absa Cape Epic charity and a community-based mental health support program that utilizes mountain biking as a vehicle for empowering children from historically disadvantaged communities. Since its founding in 2020, the initiative has empowered over 400 youth beneficiaries, providing cycling, mentorship, and access to the great outdoors.
Every weekday, 120 children from Maccassar and Strand are taken to ride mountain bikes on the Wine Lands Trail network by the Pedal Project. Along with exercise, the children receive guidance from mentors and are helped to build the tools to overcome life’s challenges. Mountain bikers and fans of the Absa Cape Epic can support the project’s charitable efforts here and find out more by visiting their website.
UCI Teams to Watch at the 2025 Absa Cape Epic
The 2025 Absa Cape Epic is shaping up to be a thrilling race, with a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars vying for the top spot. Let’s take a look at some of the teams to keep an eye on:
- Annika Langvad and Sofia Gomez Villafañe: With Langvad’s incredible record and Villafañe’s recent wins, this duo is a force to be reckoned with. Can Langvad make history with a sixth win?
- Vera Looser and Alexis Skarda: Looser, the 2023 champion, teams up with Skarda, a US marathon mountain bike national champion. They finished fifth last year, and they’re hungry for more.
- Matt Beers and Keegan Swenson: Three-time Cape Epic winner Beers joins forces with gravel guru Swenson. This is a team with immense potential.
But that’s not all! Other teams to watch include Nino Schurter and Filipo Colombo, Georg Egger and Lukas Baum, and Wout Alleman and Martin Stošek. The competition will be fierce, and the action will be non-stop.
The Course: A Grueling Test of Endurance
The 21st edition of the Cape Epic features a course that varies each year, but one thing remains constant: it’s tough. Riders will face more than 600 kilometers of racing and a massive elevation gain of more than 16,000 meters. Dust, gravel roads, rocky climbs, technical descents—it’s all part of the challenge. Are you ready for it?
Check out a livestream of the 2025 Absa Cape Epic prologue above and the details that riders will face.
A closer look at the prologue course, with its sharp climbs, sweeping singletrack, and spectator points, provides a taste of what’s to come. Above, you can get a sneak peak at what to expect.
The 2025 Absa Cape Epic is set to be an EPIC week, and you can preview what to expect in the video above. Expect in-depth insight from expert commentators, top-team spotlights, and insider insights.
The UCI Men’s Field: A Clash of Titans
The UCI Men’s field for the 2025 Absa Cape Epic is stacked with talent, featuring National Champions, past winners, and even an Olympic Road Race Gold Medalist. Here are some of the favorites:
- Matt Beers and Keegan Swenson: As the defending champion, Beers has a target on his back. Swenson, a gravel guru, is a formidable partner.
- Nino Schurter and Filipo Colombo: Schurter, a legend in mountain biking, teams up with Colombo, a rising star. Can they conquer the Cape Epic?
- Georg Egger and Lukas Baum: The German duo, known for their aggressive racing style, are always a threat.
Ebudilwe Gears Up for the Challenge
Local Mountain Bike star, Bakang Ebudilwe, is preparing to take part in the Absa Cape Epic Challenge. Ebudilwe said the previous season was challenging since she was getting back to cycling after maternity. This season her focus is on maximizing her performance. She is partnered with Julia Westoby from Mpumalanga.
Conclusion: More Than Just a Race
So, what’s the takeaway? The Absa Cape Epic is more than just a mountain bike race. It’s a celebration of resilience, community, and the empowering spirit of cycling. It’s a testament to the human spirit, pushing individuals to their limits while supporting a great cause. Will you be watching? Maybe even participating one day? The possibilities are endless. What do you think makes an endurance race like the Absa Cape Epic so special?
Gear Up: Your Essential Cape Epic Packing List
Inspired to tackle your own epic adventure, or just curious about what it takes to survive the Cape Epic? Here’s a peek into the essential gear riders rely on. Think of it as a starting point for your own cycling adventures, whether it’s a weekend tour or a challenging stage race. Remember to adjust this list based on the duration of your race, weather forecasts and type of riding.
On the Bike:
- Mountain Bike: Obviously! Full suspension is highly recommended for comfort and control on those rough trails. Ensure your bike is serviced and in tip-top condition before the start.
- Tires: Durable, puncture-resistant tires are a must. Consider going tubeless with sealant for added protection.
- GPS Computer: Essential for navigation and tracking your progress. Load the course maps beforehand.
- Water Bottles/Hydration Pack: Hydration is key! Carry enough water to last between water points.
- Bike Repair Kit: Multi-tool, spare tubes, tire levers, pump or CO2 inflator, chain tool, and quick links. Know how to use them!
Clothing and Protection:
- Cycling Shorts: High-quality bib shorts with a comfortable chamois are essential for long days in the saddle.
- Cycling Jersey: Breathable and moisture-wicking jerseys to keep you cool and dry.
- Helmet: Non-negotiable. Protect your head!
- Gloves: Padded gloves to protect your hands and improve grip.
- Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun, dust, and debris.
- Sunscreen: Apply liberally and reapply often!
- Rain Jacket: Be prepared for unexpected weather.
- Cycling Shoes and Socks: Comfortable and well-fitting shoes and moisture-wicking socks.
Off the Bike:
- Recovery Nutrition: Protein shakes or bars to help your muscles recover after each stage.
- Casual Clothes: Comfortable clothes for relaxing after the race.
- Toiletries: Don’t forget the essentials!
- Charging Cables and Power Bank: Keep your devices charged.
- First-Aid Kit: Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
Beyond the Race: Inspiring Your Own Cycling Journey
The Cape Epic might seem like an unattainable dream for some, but the spirit of adventure and the joy of cycling are accessible to everyone. Here are a few ideas to fuel your own cycling passion:
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Explore Local Trails: Discover the hidden gems in your own backyard. You might be surprised at what you find!
- Join a Cycling Club: Connect with like-minded people and share your passion for cycling.
- Set a Goal: Whether it’s completing a local race, riding a certain distance, or simply improving your fitness, having a goal will keep you motivated.
- Give Back to the Community: Volunteer at a local cycling event or support a cycling charity.
Remember, it’s not about winning or being the fastest; it’s about enjoying the ride and pushing yourself to achieve your personal best. What will *your* epic cycling adventure be?
Share Your Thoughts!
We want to hear from you! What aspects of the Cape Epic inspire you the most? Have you ever participated in a challenging cycling event? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Common Questions About the Absa Cape Epic
What makes the Absa Cape Epic unique?
The Absa Cape Epic is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of resilience, community, and the empowering spirit of cycling. It’s a challenging test of endurance and mental fortitude that attracts both professional and amateur riders.
How does the Pedal Project support the Absa Cape Epic?
The Pedal Project is an official Absa Cape Epic charity that uses mountain biking to empower children from historically disadvantaged communities. They also highlight the achievements of non-professional women competing in the race through the PedalForGood Leaders Jersey.
How can I get involved with the Pedal Project?
You can support the Pedal Project’s charitable efforts by donating through their website and learning more about their initiatives.
The Enduring Appeal of the Cape Epic
The Absa Cape Epic showcases the resilience of the human spirit and the unifying power of community. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, the race offers a unique experience that transcends the boundaries of sport.