Christoph Sauser and Jaroslav Kulhavy win the prologue of the 2013 Absa Cape Epic mountain bike race at Meerendal Wine Estate in Durbanville outside Cape Town, South Africa, on Sunday. Photo: Karin Schermbrucker/Cape Epic/SPORTZPICS
The 10th Absa Cape Epic kicked off with a 22km prologue at Meerendal Wine Estate in Durbanville, South Africa, on Sunday and for the third year in a row Christoph Sauser emerged in yellow.
This year he won alongside Olympic gold medallist Jaroslav Kulhavy in 55:10,1.
They were followed by Multivan Merida’s José Hermida and Rudi van Houts in 56.17,1 with the Italian/German combo Marco Fontana and Manuel Fumic (Cannondale Factory Racing) third in 56.34,2.
Fourth was Alban Lakata and Robert Mennen of Topeak Ergon Racing in 57:03,6 with four-time champion Karl Platt and Urs Huber of the Bulls in fifth in 57.18,7.
“I knew Jaroslav was going to be strong, but he was a powerhouse,” said Sauser of Burry Stander-Songo.
“We had perfect team harmony and did a good job. We have similar riding styles and take it slow in the corners and fast on the flats.
“Our bikes were amazing as we could sit and just ride. It was very emotional for me and when the spectators shouted Burry’s name, I had goodsebumps.”
“It was amazing and I enjoyed it. We were in good shape for today. I enjoyed the prologue and feel excited about the next week,” said Kulhavy.
Esther Süss and Jane Nuessli of BMC Wheeler won the women’s category in 1:08.21,6 ahead of Sally Bigham and Milena Landtwing (Topeak Ergon) in 1:10.19,2.
The South African/British duo of Yolande Speedy and Catherine Williamson (Energas) finished third in 1:11.56,4 with South Africans Hanlie Booyens and Ischen Stopforth (Pragma Volcan Ladies) fourth in 1:15.22,9.
“This was my first race of the season and I’m really happy with how it went,” said Süss.
“Jane and I work well together and hopefully we’ll recover for tomorrow. We’ll see how it goes. At least I know where I stand.”
