The early bird entries for the 2016 Absa Cape Epic will open at 3pm today and gives the first 100 entrants a place on a first come, first served basis.
Last year early bird entries sold out almost instantaneously.
It is the only way to get into the race on a first come, first served basis, entries will be available online at www.cape-epic.com.
Riders during the final stage of the 2015 Absa Cape Epic Mountain Bike stage race.
Photo: Sam Clark/Cape Epic/SPORTZPICS
The lottery will open immediately after the early bird entries are sold out and will run until May 30, 2015.
Professional riders can apply for a wildcard entry if they hold a valid UCI racing license and have appropriate racing qualifications.
Those riders wishing to support one of the official charities, can buy a charity entry to support a good cause.
Entries are also available for media on request, but are limited.
Cape Epic volunteers receive a guaranteed entry to the following year’s race.
Successful lottery entrants will be notified at the beginning of June, and can start their training programmes in anticipation of next year’s race.
The cost of entry is R59 600 per team.
According to Kevin Vermaak, Founder of the Cape Epic, the early bird entries sell out within seconds as International demand to ride the Epic is growing year on year and the lottery system is the most unbiased way of managing the demand.
The system allows new riders from around South Africa and the world to participate annually.
Next year’s event will take place from March 13 to 20.
