South African hopes for success in the 2013 Absa Cape Epic received a significant boost this week when Philip Buys and Matthys Beukes were confirmed as partners for next month’s race.
In a show of selflessness, Beukes’ team, Contego, agreed to release their star marathon racer to partner with Scott’s Buys for the eight-day race.
Buys is thrilled at the prospect of teaming up with Beukes.
“My plan, since I joined Scott, was to always do this year’s Cape Epic. But I was prepared to skip it if I couldn’t find the ideal team-mate.
“It’s a tough eight-day race against the world’s best riders. You don’t just pick anyone to partner with,” said Buys.
“Matthys and I raced as team-mates at the Nedbank Sani2c three-day race a few years ago and it was apparent then that we have similar riding styles and strengths.
“I believe we’ll be very well matched and I look forward to racing at the highest level with him.”
Buys has completed three Cape Epics, while this will be Beukes’ first appearance.
“None of my previous Cape Epics were super serious. I raced in a back-up team always, so the pressure was low.
“My best finish was 14th overall. I was also quite young. I’ve matured physically and mentally since then. I’m ready to give it my best shot.” – supersport
