Short and filled with loads of purpose built single track, the Prologue is the first test for man and machine for the week to come.

Rolling off the start ramp, the route takes riders through (yes, through) the historic Manor House after which a surprising twist awaits before facing the challenging single track climb up "Stairway to Heaven" to the top of Dorstberg, a mountaintop boasting magnificent 360 degree views of world famous landmarks such as Table Mountain, Robben Island and Cape Point.

Pressed for time, teams will have to forgo sight-seeing as they dive straight into a rugged, Renosterveld lined trail that descends into the quarry and adjacent Hoogekraal farm, where sweeping singletrack forming part of the Tygerberg Mountain Bike Club trail system lies in wait. Well bermed turns make for a fun roller coaster descent as the route ultimately heads back through steep vineyards and a steady climb past dairy fields onto the picturesque Meerendal Wine Estate, finishing off with some more singletrack and ensuring riders finish the first day with big smiles on their faces.