It’s after Stage Two, and Braam Gericke says he’s looking like I lizard. “One of those koggelmanders stretched out in a swimming pool, beer in hand,” he says. Tired, a bit of pain in the muscles, but all fine and happy to be into the business stage of this year’s Cape Epic. It is the second Epic Braam is riding in partnership with Jacques Wentzel.
“You can do all the training, have the best bike and honed talent – but it’s your buddy that counts,” says Braam. “When you get up in the morning after a hard stage and the whole body is creaking, you know you are part of a team, which inspires you to get going. On the route you are talking to each other all the time, handing out advice, motivating and cracking a joke now and again.”
Stage Two was shortened from 102km to 65km due to hot conditions and high temperatures. The riders rode from Hermanus ending in Caledon. The route comprised total climbing of 1 500m, including the quadriceps-crunching 4km Shaw’s Pass which saw an elevation of 220m.
“Yes the route was shorter, but once again very hot and quite a few riders dropped out,” says Braam. “But the spirit among the groups is fantastic and we’d team-up with a few teams and help each other out. That is the spirit of the Cape Epic.”
Once again, spectator support energised team Braam and Jacques. “It is awesome to have your supporters there, but I have to watch out for Jacques – each time he hears his name called out he gets a blast of power from somewhere and sets off like the clappers, leaving everyone in his wake.”
Braam says Team Black Elephant Vintners and Wildekrans Wines are feeling really good. “We are definitely better than we were at this stage last year, and bodies and equipment are in good nick. But the minds are also right. We are really in the zone and amped to get a good finish.”
Last night’s dinner reflected the team’s no-nonsense approach. Steak. Potato wedges and salad. With beer. “Jacques and I believe in real food,” says Braam. “The whole race is about honesty and authenticity, in your approach, preparation and general attitude.”
