A Trail of Two Halves
In 2022, the Absa Cape Epic explores the trails of Greyton like never before. It begins with a day backloaded with singletrack; thus, the opening kilometres of Stage 3 are characterised by the other Absa Cape Epic essentials: heat and dust. Sapping climbs and rolling descents soften the legs for the rocky mountain singletracks in the second half of the stage. Long kilometres of farm dual track will ensure a blistering pace early in the stage, before the rocky Greyton singletracks enforce a change of tempo. In the second half of the stage, the trails flow into each other as they rise and fall along the Riviersonderend Mountains. A final twist sees the teams climbing from within sight of the finish line to reach the trail head of the day’s final singletrack. Concentration is the name of the game and those who roll the dice with high speed and high risk jeopardise their Absa Cape Epic finisher medals.
FAST FACT
Greyton was established in 1854 is known as the “Green Heart of the Overberg” thanks to the residents’ efforts to make it environmentally friendly.
Greyton’s trails have long been a favourite of the Absa Cape Epic and the town has hosted the race on 5 previous occasions.
If the heat arrives as predicted, river crossings may become the highlight of the stage for teams.
Dusty faces are somewhat of a guarantee in Greyton in March.
Esther Süss leads the women’s field to the crest of one of Greyton’s many leg-sapping climbs.
Teams will enjoy fast and relatively flat starts in Greyton on Stages 3 and 4. Stage 5 is another story completely.
Route Director's Tip
Any weather is possible, but expect heat and dust. While the opening half of the stage is mild in Absa Cape Epic terms, the second half is a different story completely and your ability to ride on varying surfaces will be tested. Be prepared for a variety of riding surfaces – rocky, sandy, rutted – on the way back to the race village. And save some gas for the final twist in the tail.
