A coach’s summary - Björn about the 2024 Cape Epic 🇿🇦
Whenever riders take on the Cape Epic, it feels like stepping into a cinematic experience. The atmosphere is reminiscent of iconic movie moments, like the repetitive cycle in "Groundhog Day," where Bill Murray wakes up to the same events, or the dramatic reunion in "Star Wars: A New Hope," when Darth Vader finally meets Obi-Wan Kenobi again. Since 2014, the Cape Epic has been a journey filled with anticipation and heartbreak—always on the edge of victory but somehow just out of reach.
Over the years, I’ve witnessed countless riders, some of whom I coach, finish in 2nd or 3rd place, or face unforeseen setbacks due to illness, injuries, or mechanical failures. It’s been a challenging ride, to say the least. However, this year feels different. The atmosphere has shifted, and it seems like the circle is closing again. We started strong, securing four stage wins and the yellow jersey, with riders consistently making it to the podium. Yet, despite these successes, the ultimate victory still danced just beyond our grasp.
Interestingly, I’ve found a sense of peace with this outcome. The 2024 Epic turned out to be the most challenging yet, as reflected in the data over the last decade. The level of competition was fierce, making every stage feel like a true thriller. Hans Becking and his teammate Aléman delivered an exceptional performance, finishing 3rd overall and claiming two stage victories. Hans’s dedication to preparation was truly inspiring.
On the other hand, my athletes Andreas Seewald and Marc Stutzmann, who race under my guidance with Canyon Sidi, formed a dynamic duo. For Marc, I implemented a different training strategy, taking into account his new responsibilities as a father. We focused on altitude training, cross-country skiing, and heat training, which paid off. Despite facing challenges like illness and knee issues, Andreas proved why he is among the world’s elite riders, showcasing unwavering professionalism and focus.
As we look back on this year's Cape Epic, it’s clear that the journey continues. Each rider's experience adds to the story, and while victory may have eluded us once more, there’s a sense of fulfillment in the progress made and the camaraderie built along the way. The adventure doesn’t end here; it’s just getting started.
