Cape Epic countdown

Christoph Sauser (Swizterland)

Christoph Sauser (Swizterland) (Image credit: Mikkeli Godfree)

The Cape Epic off road stage race will kick off its fourth edition this weekend. Racers from 42 nations will contest the 886km course from Knysna on Saturday, March 24 to Lourensford Wine Estate in Somerset West on March 31. They will compete in teams of two in one of four categories -- Men, Ladies, Mixed, and Masters -- and will climb 15,045 meters. A new route is designated every year.