Val de Vie hosts the conclusion of the Absa Cape Epic for the sixth time this year, and if the 2022 finish is anything to go by race fans are in for an incredible time
Africa’s premier lifestyle estate will host the race’s Grand Finale for an incredible sixth time this year, and for local spectators it promises to be another thrilling conclusion to the world-famous event, taking place from 19-26 March.
After one of the most demanding final stages in recent history, teams will embark on a mini tour de Val de Vie as they wind their way to the polo fields and the finish line, where supporters will be treated to mountain biking at its finest.
VIP supporter packages will provide canapés, Méthode Cap Classique and the perfect vantage point from which to watch the final sprint.
On the lawns food stalls and chill zones will ensure everyone enjoys the closing moments of the “Tour de France of Mountain Biking”.
The Grand Finale is a rite of passage that has been hard-earned over eight days of racing on the Western Cape’s untamed trails.
The 78 km Stage 7 takes in 2 700m of climbing, making it one of the toughest Grand Finales in Absa Cape Epic history.
Beginning with a grind to Lourensford Nek, there is climbing from the outset before thrilling single-tracks lead teams through Mont Marie, Eden, G-Spot and the Stellenbosch World Cup Course.
Botmaskop provides the second major test of the day and the final significant climb of the 2023 race. Banhoek and Boschendal’s famed trails then ensure the Cape Epic ends on a single-track high, before the trails of Val de Vie provide a moment for reflection on the previous 658 km.
It is not over until riders cross the line, however, and the final 500 m on the estate’s polo fields are where emotions overcome teams as they’re welcomed by deafening crowds as heroes.
Until last year, the closest-ever finish was at the 2007 Absa Cape Epic, when Karl Platt and Stefan Sahm got over the line only three-and-a-half-minutes before Jakob Fuglsang and Roel Paulissen.
Never before had the lead changed on Stage 7, but Egger and Baum’s determination to win saw them home.
Fans are encouraged to make their way straight to Val de Vie to ensure the riders receive the reception their efforts deserve, and arrive early to secure a prime seat on the pavilions.
For Paarl race fans, there are two spectator points to catch all the action.
Spectator Point 1 occurs at Waterford Wine Estate in the in the Blaauwklippen Valley. This viewing area presents the first opportunity for fans to see the teams race towards their medals, but there is also plenty to do, including wine drive safaris, wine tasting and enjoying a meal at the restaurant.
Dornier Wine Estate serves as Spectator Point 2 on this stage. The estate is itself a mountain biking paradise, forming part of the Winelands Cycling Club trail network.
