Absa Cape Epic MTB Stage Race: Grand Finale

Watch the fight for first place and celebrate the whole lot of endurance competitors at the finishing line at the Meerendal Wine Estate

It’s the final countdown! That’s right folks, the 2015 Absa Cape Epic teams are set to conjure that second wind to place in the top ranks and cross the finishing line as heroes, and supporters and cycling enthusiasts of all kind are invited to come watch the fight for first and take part in an off-the-hook grand finale celebration at the Meerendal Wine Estate in Durbanville on Sunday, 22 March 2015.

Aside from keeping an eye out for all the sporting action, spectators at the end point can also enjoy a number of activities. With a farmer’s market, wine sales and tastings, a pump track, loads of kiddies activities and, of course, a selection of great grub vendors, the final event promises to be even grander than its Prologue counterpart.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE 2015 ABSA CAPE EPIC MTB STAGE RACE: GRAND FINALE

SEE THE FIGHT FOR FIRST PLACE: Naturally, the only way to greet these champion riders is with a grand gesture. And so approximately half an hour before the first riders come into view, a skydiver will touch down on the finishing line to announce their arrival. Attendees can expect the leaders of the pack to arrive at around 11am – listen out for the thundering sounds of the tracker helicopter. As for the audience vantage point, the route includes a permanent pump track with a chill zone that provides spectators with a great view of the Absa Cape Epic riders as they make their final descent to the finishing line.

FARMER’S MARKET & CELLAR SALES: While waiting for the throng of riders to arrive at the finishing line, visitors can browse stalls stocked with fresh produce and country-style fare at the farmer’s market (it will be open from 9am). What’s more, the Meerendal Wine Estate’s cellar will also be open for tastings and purchases from 9am.

LIQUI-FRUIT KIDDIES BIKE RACE: Youngsters are known to have oodles of energy, and what better way to expend that boundless liveliness than with a mini-race of their own. Kids between the ages of 6 and 12 years can sign up via Dirtopia.co.za and take part in one of three routes that all conclude at the same finishing line that the Absa Cape Epic riders will cross. 

LIQUI-FRUIT PUMP TRACK: Similar to the one at the Prologue event, the constructed Liqui-Fruit Pump Track provides adrenaline junkies of all ages the opportunity to test their two-wheeled vehicle skills. Access to the track and the use of the bikes are free, and those keen to show off their skills need only sign an indemnity form in order to participate.

ACTION-PACKED LIVE ENTERTAINMENT: If you missed out on seeing internationally renowned Belgian multi-time world champion trials rider Kenny Belaey showcase slick tricks at the Prologue event, then best you get down to the grand finale to  see his killer biking moves. Not to mention, attendees can check out a downhill MTB exhibition on the day and can also see local cover band Me and Mr Brown on stage.

GREAT GRUB & AN UBER CHILLED-OUT ZONE: As was the case at the Prologue, attendees can check out all the live action on the big screens in the Castle Lite Chill Zone (it will also have a bar) and grab a bite to eat at one of the food vendors and trucks (think: shwarmas, burgers and pizzas).

LIQUI-FRUIT KIDS ZONE: Not forgetting the very little ones, the Liqui-Fruit Kids Zone is part and parcel to this family-friendly event. In very close proximity to the Castle Lite Chill Zone, this kiddies’ area is chockfull of fun things to do for children up to the age of 12 years. Kids can build puzzles, get their faces painted and even get their pics snapped at the photo booth station, which comes complete with a costume section.

ENTRY TO THE 2015 ABSA CAPE EPIC MTB STAGE RACE: GRAND FINALE

Access to this event is gratis, mahala and for free!

The gates open at 8am and the first riders are expected to cross the finishing line at around 11am. The day-long event will wrap up at approximately 5pm.

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Have a squiz at our overview of March events to find out about more hot happenings taking place during the month.
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