A legend of the cricket pitch will be swopping his bat and pads for two wheels and mountain bike trails when he takes part in the 2016 Cape Epic in March.
Former Proteas opening batsman Gary Kirsten will be taking on the grueling 647km race for the first time alongside his friend television presenter Michael Mol.
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“My mate Michael Mol was over for dinner one night and sneakily asked me whether I was keen to do the Cape Epic with him,” said Kirsten.
It took him a while to accept the invitation, but he eventually caved and is now nervously eyeing the route spread out over seven stages.
In recent years Kirsten has become more involved in endurance running, finishing the Two Oceans ultra-marathon and seven other standard 42km marathons.
“Mountain biking seemed to be a natural progression,” said Kirsten.
Last year Kirsten completed the three-day Wines2Whales stage race and often trains on the trails around Table Mountain, and said he hopes to be “fit enough to enjoy the ride.”
Mol, who has finished the Cape Epic twice (2010 and 2013), will be joining Kirsten as part of team Liqui-Fruit, one of the Cape Epic’s official sponsors. Another sporting legend, former Springbok flyhalf Joel Stransky, will also be donning the team Liqui-Fruit colours.
“These acclaimed and respected celebrities all embody the vibrant and colourful image of the brand,” said Liqui-Fruit senior marketing manager Merlin Norman.
“Not only do they personify an active, healthy lifestyle but they are having fun while living life to the fullest. We wish them well for their training over the next few months.”
