Shan Wilson (left) and Bas Peters (right) in action in the Absa Cape Epic. Photo: Sportograf/Absa Cape Epic
South Africa’s Shan Wilson, who won the masters’ category in 2010, will participate in his 10th Absa Cape Epic from Sunday.
Wilson, 46, has an impressive stage win history, finishing first in seven of the eight stages in the master’s section in 2010.
Seasoned cyclists from all over the world will tackle the demanding eight-day mountain bike adventure from Citrusdal to Lourensford Wine Estate. It stretches over 698km with 15 650m of climbing.
Wilson, who has represented South Africa at four World Marathon Championships, has 21 stage wins to his credit – four of them in the elite category.
He was the first South African to win a stage in the Cape Epic and the first to finish on the podium overall.
Wilson started mountain biking ‘a very long time ago’ and is a business owner. Through the years, he says, he managed to train for the event even though he had family and work commitments.
“It’s easy with dedication and focus. It all depends on how badly you want it.
“I’ve participated in the Cape Epic since its inception and made many new friends.
“Every pedal stroke in passion or hate has been truly memorable in different ways. I’d have to say my first stage win is probably the most memorable moment.”
His toughest Cape Epic was when he won the masters category. “I had a broken shoulder and an animal partner, and felt every rock or bump on the track resonate through my shoulder.”
To the question of his funniest moment, he jokingly says that ‘there’s nothing funny about the Epic’. The worst part for him is stage one.
His riding partners over the last nine years included Jacques Rossouw, Brandon Stewart, Andrew Maclean, Boss Peters and Walter Platzkummer.
He competed in two events each with Rossouw, Stewart and Maclean. This year he’ll be riding with dynamo Rourke Croeser as team JAG Nando’s.
“I’m still trying to work out why I keep coming back for more. I train very scientifically and Andy Lambert takes care of all my dietary requirements, which helps a lot.”
