The Absa Cape Epic is well known as the pinnacle of elite mountain bike racing and as a test of fortitude for hundreds of amateur mountain bikers who enter to challenge themselves on a route ridden by the very best in the world. 

Hidden in amongst the best and those here for a test, though, are a handful of riders who have excelled around the world in other formats. In 2017, the 2011 Tour de France winner Cadel Evans participated alongside George Hincapie.

Now, in 2025, the 2016 Olympic road race champion, 2017 Paris-Roubaix winner and two-time stage winner at the Tour de France Greg van Avermaet is in town to pursue a dream he’s had for 21 years. 

“It has been a dream of mine to race at the (Absa) Cape Epic since the first race was announced,” said Van Avermaet after completing Stage 2 of the 2025 edition. “This race is something that has always appealed to me, but I was busy with my road career. Now I have the time and I am happy to be here.” 

Van Avermaet, who finished ahead of both Matt Beers and Keegan Swenson at last year’s UNBOUND Gravel race in the United States, has turned his attention to gravel racing of late (he also competed in the 2024 Gravel World Champs). But the Absa Cape Epic has always been on his mind.  

“After my road career, it was always my plan to do some off-road riding, and that’s what I have been doing with the gravel racing. And now I am here for a real mountain biking challenge.”

From road to cobbles to gravel, Van Avermaet has ridden it all. Yet such is the magnitude of the Absa Cape Epic challenge, that even an experienced campaigner can still find the racing hard. “It’s different and it’s difficult! I mean, we have nothing like this in Belgium, so it’s very hard to prepare for a race like this. What also makes it unique is the team aspect. You have to be very aware of your partner all the time - and make sure that you are pacing the ride well. Add the steep climbs and technical descents and you have a recipe for really fun, exciting riding. And the trails - wow - the trails are so good. I’ve really enjoyed riding them so far.” 

It’s not just the riding that has impressed Van Avermaet. He’s been enjoying the overall experience too. “Everything has been excellent. The race village, the camping, the racing, the atmosphere with the spectators. I am having a great time and I am so happy to be here!”