Masters on a mission: Cape Epic Stage 5


Michael Finch |

Today was an incredible mountain bike route (87km/2100m) and one that would be admired by all who love this sport.

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It has absolutely everything you want in a great stage; steep climbs, tricky terrain, gnarly downhills, power-sapping single track and a glorious atmosphere. Quite the contrast to yesterday.

A day perfectly suited to Shaun and I and one we were licking our lips for. In saying that, it all went south for me. Our goal was to start a bit slower as it was a profile of 20km straight up. Needless to say, we went out a bit too fast –  well too fast for me that is. After 31 minutes, we had only completed 5km and I was heaving. My legs decided to show me who was boss and they downed tools and gave me a toffee! By the 11km mark, I was blown and we only had around 77km and around 1600m of climbing to go…..oh dear!

Sadly for Shaun, he had a day where patience was required and all we had to do was manage our way around the course. Oak Valley is still one of my favourite places to ride as the varying landscapes and the unbelievable trails and tracks that have been designed here require huge accolades as its truly spectacular. Some rain fell overnight and we all celebrated the precipitation  this morning. It helped pack down the dusty trails and helped the treacherous descents.

I was so dejected by the time I crossed the line, I didn’t give my Lads of the Village mates who came to support me a friendly enough embrace. I was so disappointed with my performance that I didn’t even get to appreciate the support that this race generates and it was a good wake up call. We are after all middle-aged men riding bikes because we love it!

So tomorrow, we will be out there for close on 7 hours and make sure we love the bike. At least we had one of the best dinners I’ve had in years. If you are looking for a laid back vibe with unbelievable meat dishes like pulled pork, ribs, braised beef and chicken wings, make your way to The Hickory Shack just off the N2 and the vibrant Jay will be happy to welcome you to his magical eatery. The Queen stage awaits and I need to go to sleep. Good night

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