Putney Host 2010 UK Riders

True to form, and not to be outdone, the UK based Andrew Clayton (www.pedalstudio.co.uk) responded to the challenge laid down by our Swiss and Brazilian followers late last year by arranging a 2010 Absa Cape Epic route screening and presentation on 4th February 2010, at the Telegraph pub in Putney.

The evening attracted a number of enthusiastic London mountain bikers and some of the attendees travelled in from as far out as Birmingham. Enthusiasts were treated to an evening which included presentations from Sandro Morelli on Heart Rate training and from Rob Enslin on Nutrition.

Rob and Sandro are both experts in their field and delivered some very valuable advice. Rob, a previous competitor of the Absa Cape Epic who managed an excellent 11th place in the 2005 edition of the race, gave some great practical nutrition tips. The 40 odd riders were then treated to a 15min Absa Cape Epic route presentation and were all glued to the screen as the breath-taking scenes and tastes of what lies ahead were screened. The tough terrain and steep climbs noted by Dr Evil brought on a few gasps with the Dr Evil 3 second slow motion "stare" drawing some good laughs...knowing full well that Dr Evil always has the last laugh!

The floor opened to a presentation on key points and race tips and a description of the typical day at the Absa Cape Epic. This was followed by a number of questions as the evening became more social. It was clear there is a growing core of like minded mountain bikers who enjoy stage racing and incorporate annual holidays with a race.

Issuing a challenge of their own, it would seem the UK based Absa Cape Epic riders are planning some group training weekends prior to the race to be held in Wales - Afan.

Mountain bike enthusiasts from near and far flocked to the Telegraph pub in Putney to watch a screening of the 2010 Absa Cape Epic Route. Seen here, Rob Enslin presents his talk with nutritional tips.