Absa Cape Epic MTB Stage Race: The Prologue

See 1200 of the globe’s best mountain bikers race against time for a starting position in the world’s most televised MTB stage race

Billed as the most televised and one of the biggest international mountain bike stage races in the world, the Absa Cape Epic is as gruelling as it is popular. And while the cycling race itself is not for the faint of heart, the Prologue promises to be an epic jol for MTB enthusiasts, Absa Cape Epic supporters and simply anyone looking for a fun Sunday afternoon out with the family.

Previously hosted at Meerendal Wine Estate in Durbanville, the 2015 Prologue will rather kick-start the adventure from the foot of Table Mountain, at the University of Cape Town (UCT), this year on Sunday, 15 March 2015.

As the precursor to the eight-day trek across the Western Cape, this limit-pushing contest sees athletes participate in a time trial that will determine their seeding for the first stage of the competition.

The Prologue course will take riders along trails on the slopes of Table Mountain National Park, while UCT’s rugby fields will be transformed into a festival hub. This main staging ground will host a smorgasbord of festivities and live entertainment, but there will be specific vantage points to see all the on-route action.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE 2015 ABSA CAPE EPIC PROLOGUE AT UCT

CHEER FROM GREAT VANTAGE POINTS: The time trial for amateur teams will start at 6:45am, and those for the UCI Women will start at 10:30am and the UCI Men start at 12pm. Spectators keen to get an early start to the day are most welcome to support their favourite team from one of the two designated vantage points: Newlands Picnic Site and Tafelberg Road at Dead Man’s Tree. Do note that no smoking is allowed anywhere in Table Mountain National Park, and attendees are requested to obey the marshals at all times and not to litter.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT: Internationally recognised Belgian trials rider and multiple world champion Kenny Belaey will show off some of his sick skills to audiences at the pop-up track at the festival grounds. But instead of us telling you about how cool he is, check out his stunts in the video below.

LIQUI-FRUIT PUMP TRACK: Plus, if you’re keen to show off your very own two-wheeled skills, there will be a constructed pump track at the main hub. There will be bikes available to use (for free) to tackle this quick and easy route. Do note that indemnity forms must be signed in order to participate.

GREAT GRUB & AN UBER CHILLED-OUT ZONE: Of course, those who prefer to stay put at the fair ground and still watch the action unfold can head to the Chill Zone (it comes complete with a bar) and check out the live TV coverage on the massive screens. Aside from the big screens and even bigger action, attendees can also grab some yummy nosh from the on-site food trucks, vendors and the Spur pop-up eatery to satiate hungers of all sizes.

LIQUI-FRUIT KIDS ZONE: Of course, no family-friendly event is complete without a little something for the kids. Located right next to the Chill Zone, the kiddies’ area provides a secure spot where kids up to the age of 12 years can play to their hearts’ delight. With puzzles, bubbles, hula hoops, face painting, and more, there is more than enough to keep your precious bundle occupied.

ENTRY TO THE 2015 ABSA CAPE EPIC PROLOGUE AT UCT

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

So bundle up the whole family for an awesome day of fun in the sun. The first team of amateur riders starts at 6:45am and the pro riders hit the track at 10:30am. The event will wrap at around 2pm.

Photo Credit: Images courtesy of Sam Clark, Greg Beadle, Karin Schermbrucker and Warren Elsrom.

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