The Cape Epic is the largest full service mountain bike stage race in the world. When the event kicks off for the third time on 22 April 2006 in Knysna, spectators along the eight stage route can expect thrilling entertainment, making each day memorable and exciting.
A spectator zone has been identified along each of the stages, allowing spectators an opportunity to cheer the riders on as they make their way towards the finish. All of the spectator vantage points will feature music, an announcer and vendors from the local towns providing light snacks and refreshments.
The spectator points are as follows for each of the stages:
Stage 1: Knysna – Saasveld. Water point 2, Karatara. This point will be signposted from N2, Karatara/Barrington turnoff. Spectators can expect music, and an announcer at this point which is also a nutrition and medical point for the riders.
Stage 2: Saasveld – Mossel Bay. Marshal Point 15, Robinson Pass Road (R328). Spectators need to look out for signs from the N2, Robinson Pass Road turnoff. An announcer, music and light snacks and drinks will be available at this point.
Stage 3: Mossel Bay – Riversdale. Water point 3, Soetmelksrivier. Signs will be posted from the Langenhoven High School, Riversdale. Spectators can look forward to music, an announcer and light snacks. As this is a designated feed zone, it’s the perfect opportunity to support the cyclists.
Stage 4: Riversdale – Swellendam. Water point 3 at Suurbraak. This is in a designated feed zone, so support of the cyclists is possible. Spectators can enjoy the music and an announcer will keep them updated.
Stage 5: Swellendam – Greyton. Water point 2, Tygerhoek. This water point is a nutrition service and marshal point with music and an announcer. Light snacks and refreshments will also be available from local vendors.
Stage 6: Greyton – Hermanus. Water point 1, Greyton/Genendal turnoff. Spectators need to look out for signs from the N2, Greyton / Genendal turnoff. This is a lovely remote area, so take in the scenery and support the cyclists as they make their way through. There will be music and an announcer at this point to keep spectators entertained.
Stage 7: Hermanus – Boschendal Estate. Water point 3, Franschhoek Pass. On the R45 at the base of the Franschhoek Pass, spectators will see the first of the signposts directing them to the water point. This is a designated feed zone with spectacular views to be enjoyed while you listen to the music at this water point.
Stage 8: Boschendal Estate – Spier Wine Estate. Water point at the Vigne à Vigne short course start in Jonkershoek. This is a great scenic area with lunch and drinks available from the shop. There will be music and an announcer as the longer distance riders make their way through and the shorter distance riders get ready for their 32km ride.
Spectators can look forward to additional infotainment at the finish line of each stage. The programme features a line up of world class entertainment including dirt jump riders, the adidas soccer dribbling competition for the local schools, music and the awards ceremony once the top riders have come in.
After this has taken place, spectators can make their way through the Expo area to purchase Cape Epic souvenirs and the chill zone where they can speak to the riders who are enjoying refreshments at the end of the day.
From 17h30, the evening programme commences with local town entertainment, the overall leaders who are awarded their leader jerseys, the regional mayors welcoming the Cape Epic to town, sponsor activities, and an opportunity to view the photographs and TV footage filmed on the day. The Bicycle Empowerment Network (BEN) bikes will also be presented in the evening and mountain bike enthusiasts can stay on to watch the interviews with the day’s top riders.
Spectators, please look out for the Cape Epic 2006 Road Book at the spectator vantage points along the various stage routes. The Road Book is a guide to the event from a spectator’s perspective.
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