Welcome

An Epic Eight Days Ahead 

The Absa Cape Epic is always the highlight of my year. It’s the culmination of more than a year of work from our team – because planning for this edition began long before the 2025 race had even finished. 

But I know the same is true for you. 

Getting to the start line at Meerendal doesn’t happen by chance. It’s taken months of planning, training rides, build-up races and commitment. Early mornings before the sun comes up. Long hours in the saddle. Saying no to dinners, drinks and social plans. And sometimes sacrificing time with family and friends – all in pursuit of standing on that start line. 

Now, all that work is about to be put to the test by the Untamed. 

If you’re an Epic veteran, you know exactly what lies ahead. If this is your first Absa Cape Epic, you’re about to embark on a bucket-list adventure unlike anything else – and our entire Epic Series team is here to support you every step of the way. 

This Rider Manual is designed to help you navigate the week ahead. Inside you’ll find everything from detailed route information to race village maps, daily schedules, and guidance on the many services available to you throughout the event. But if you need assistance at any point, please visit the Race Office in each village – our Rider Services team will be there to help. After a year of answering emails and calls from riders around the world, they will likely even recognise your name immediately. 

Once registration is complete and the racing begins, I encourage you to take in the full Absa Cape Epic experience. The days will be tough, but they will also be incredibly special. Make time to look around, to appreciate where you are, and to reflect on the journey that brought you here. 

These are the moments that make the Untamed so unforgettable. 

On behalf of the entire Epic Series team, we can’t wait to welcome you to Cape Town and share what is about to be an incredible 8 days with you. 

Shannon Valstar 
Race Director of the Absa Cape Epic and Operations Director of the Epic Series