MTB

Absa Cape Epic 2017 Stage 6 - Grand Finale Preview

By Absa Cape Epic

This year the Absa Cape Epic finishes for the first time at Val de Vie and its renowned polo fields – the fourth host for the Grand Finale in the race’s 14 editions. After leaving Oak Valley the finish is just 85km away and the riders have the least climbing to do on any day of the 2017 Absa Cape Epic. They will, however, be well advised to keep some energy in spare for the climb up the Franschhoek Pass after about 40km. That seven kilometre haul rises nearly 400m, marking the last major climb of the 2017 Absa Cape Epic. 

The day begins with a neutral start through Grabouw, takes riders round the Eikenhof dam and then down Viljoen’s Pass. They will also cut through pristine fynbos past Theewaterskloof Dam, where they might want to keep an eye out for the herds of eland crossing the plains.

Then it is over the pass, through some twists and turns around Franschhoek and some small climbs that take you past Victor Verster prison and the iconic statue of Nelson Mandela taking his first steps to freedom.

And finally, 651kms after starting in Meerendal and after 14 550m of vertical gain, the finish line awaits at Val de Vie. 

*The 2017 Absa Cape Epic mountain bike stage race is taking place until Sunday 26 March. Watch the action live on our website www.cape-epic.com