Lourensford Vigne a Vigne race report

Lourensford Vigne a Vigne race report

The curtain call for the ABSA Cape Epic has become an institution for us lesser mortals. With a challenging route and a strong field, the racing was fiercely competitive.

The weather was perfect for riding with slightly overcast conditions. The non-seeded start was refreshing and simple as the first part of the route would serve as a natural seeding mechanism. Soon riders were being passed and others were flying through to the front. 

The first 15 km of the route consisted of about 500 meters climbing on good graded roads with a brief, but enjoyable stretch of single track. The next 5 km offered a brief respite for the tired legs. Being a slow starter, I rode within myself on the first climb to get the legs warmed up. At 20 km the big climb of the day took us high onto the slopes of the Helderberg with a 17 km climb of 700 meters. I started reeling in riders on the big climb and with good legs kept working hard throughout the race. Some great sections of singletrack broke up the big climb and the legs were ready to kick again once we left the singletrack sections. I was fortunate to not be held up a lot in the singletrack sections and consolidated the gains made on each climb in the singletrack. 

From 37km the race took us down the slopes with a few undulating climbs in-between. The last section of singletrack was just reward for a hard days riding. With a few back markers on the 26km route on the trail, the racing was interesting going into the orchards on our approach to the finish. 

I finished strongly on the race. As always the ride was a tough but enjoyable one. The route was well marked with warnings at any potentially dangerous sections, but I did unfortunately pass a few riders that got caught on some of the tricky sections. I stopped briefly at the second water point at 37 km. The Epic volunteers on duty was helpful and enthusiastic. After a hard week working on the Epic we got awesome service. The finish area was simply incredible. Careful not to intrude on the Epic riders moment of glory, we finished in the far corner of the venue. Hot showers, ample ablution facilities, a wide range of drinks and food at the finish venue and the incredible vibe of the Epic makes this a must-do for those not brave enough to tackle the Epic. 

In closing I would like to congratulate all the riders who completed this year’s edition of the ABSA Cape Epic, This year’s race was described by the Pro’s as the hardest Epic yet. Well done to everyone who stood on that podium to receive their T Shirt and medal.