The 2014 Absa Cape Epic, pegged Africa’s most challenging mountain bike (MTB) race (read first-timer Angus Powers’s Cape Epic Experience and learn how he trained for the race), set off from Meerendal Wine Estate in Durbanville, Cape Town yesterday (Sunday, 23 March)., taking riders through an eight-day adventure through the Western Cape.

The 718km route, which includes 14 850m of climbing, is sure to be tough as nails for local and international mountain bikers.

Both riders of two-person teams are expected to reach the finish line on Sunday, 30 March at Lourensford Wine Estate in Somerset West.