No two riders enjoy the challenge of the Absa Cape Epic more than the Ezi-Come Ezi-Gro team of Robbie Rorich and Anthony Baird. But 10 days before the start of this year’s event the two didn’t even know they would be competing in 2018.

The two last rode the Absa Cape Epic together in 2015, the year Robbie did his first event. Robbie rode again in 2016 and 2017 and was eager to maintain his streak. In the months leading up to the race he scoured the social networks but only managed to get an entry 10 days before the start.

He knew of only one person who was likely to take up the challenge that close to the start – his Dusi canoe rat friend Anthony who, in typical #ConquerAsOne style, agreed to ride.

Rorich, a top class trail runner, mechanical engineering student and artist, was one of the youngest riders to ever complete an Absa Cape Epic at age 19.

Although Robbie is a stronger rider, he always allows Anthony to set the pace while Robbie’s unique pink suntan lotion, tousled blonde hair and old helmet have made him a popular figure at the race.

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