CAPE EPIC 2007 - Progress TEAM CAPITAL POLARIS

Stage 5: Barrydale - Montagu
Start: Barrydale Primary School - Finish: Montagu Primary School
Distance: 102km - Ascent: 1590m

TEAM CAPITAL POLARIS
Men Categorie
Time 5:06.38,4
Overall Position 66 in Men category and 109 general
Stage Position 70 in Men Category and 113 general

Saving The Day

So far, the Absa Cape Epic riders from 43 different countries, have cycled a total of 584 kilometres and climbed a total of 9 805 metres. After enduring hardships like falls, fatigue, dehydration, tendinitis, gastro, muscle aches and saddle sores, it is no surprise that many teams have dropped out or didn’t make the daily cut-off time of 5:00pm. Today’s fifth stage saw 1077 of the original 1206 riders at the start line, out of which, 53 were individual finishers (riders who’s team mate pulled out of the race and who are now completing the Absa Cape Epic with a new partner) and 38 blue number board riders (participants who have been swept in one stage and therefore no longer qualify to be an Absa Cape Epic finisher.).

In the first four days of the race, 554 people consulted Medi-Clinic's four race doctors and six nurses. However, this number includes any consultation purpose from getting minor scratches and bruises to cases of serious dehydration or biking injuries. The Absa Cape Epic's medical team was also called out for three consecutive nights, to assist road accidents, non-related to the race. Basil Bonner, head of the Medi-Clinic's team, says, the team is prepared for anything and carries all equipment, such as the Jaws of Life, necessary to assist in such emergencies. Riders are constantly monitored along the route by 25 ECP (Emergency Care Practitioner) marshals and eight paramedics on quad bikes. The medical team's support of the riders' goal in finishing the race, is evident throughout. Yesterday, Lindsay Baker, from New Zealand, who suffered from a mild concussion after a fall, was pleading to continue the stage in order to be a finisher. The medical team deemed her physically able to do so but nevertheless, escorted her right to the end to ensure her safety.

Tomorrow, riders will again be challenged to another gruelling 111 kilometres as the race moves from Montagu to Villiersdorp in the sixth stage of this year’s Absa Cape Epic presented by adidas, with a total climb of 1 565 metres. After a blistering 5km road start through Cogmanskloof, the race heads into the farmlands of the lush Robertson valley. Exiting the farmland, the riders have a scenic 25 kilometres, on tar, before heading up the day's big challenge, a six kilometre hike-a-bike section, followed by open roads and fast descents all the way to the foot of Rooihoogte. The route takes on a tortuous climb to the radio mast above the town, before descending to the finish line in Villiersdorp.