The ABSA Cape Epic is legendary and legends are not created in comfort zones. I want this challenge because it’s hard but can be achieved. Because it pushes the limits. The Cape Epic represents the pinnacle of mountain biking achievement, and being a part of it and crossing the finish line would be the ultimate validation of my journey and love for the sport. And because I have unfinished business with the race and this time I’m ready.
My first experience of the Cape Epic didn’t go as planned. I didn’t finish. I made rookie mistakes. It was tough. It hurt. And yes, I was disappointed. But sometimes failure plants the strongest seeds of determination. That moment became a turning point. I could have walked away, but I chose to rise. I chose to train harder, ride smarter, and came back with a fire in my heart.
Because unfinished business is powerful.
Now, I’m more focused, more driven, and more determined than ever. This isn’t just about crossing the finish line. it’s about proving to myself that setbacks don’t define me.
The Cape Epic isn’t just a test of individual strength, it’s a team race. Communication and strategic riding are key. I pride myself on being a reliable teammate: someone who knows when to lead and when to support. The race teaches you to look after your partner even as you manage your own limits. It teaches resilience, empathy, and above all, kindness.
This year I line up with one of the most selfless people I know, Elaine Beytell (I call her the Queen of Munga). She is kind, caring, and always brings a sense of fun to the journey. I’m really looking forward to sharing this experience with her. In a race like this we carry a big responsibility for each other, while also chasing a bigger goal together. My job is to make sure she gets her Amabubesi Medal, and her job is to make sure I get that first medal.
But the real goal? To cross the finish line together, still smiling, slightly dusty, and wondering why we signed up for this in the first place.
Sisterhood is what SheUntamed is all about. During the training camp in Karkloof in 2025, I had a life-changing experience. What I thought was simply a tough day on the climbs,struggling to acclimatize and not being kind to myself, turned out to be far more serious. I felt nauseous and dizzy, and thankfully, I listened to my body and stopped riding. When I got to the hospital, I was shocked to be told I was having a mild heart attack. I felt fine just moments before and was ready to get back on the bike. I ended up in the Cardiac ICU for three days.
The doctors couldn’t find anything wrong and I was told I’m a very healthy person, and the episode couldn’t be explained, however, an infection was suspected. The doctor came one morning said we are crazy to be doing something like the Cape Epic, haha. Although it was a confusing and frightening time, I thought I won’t be able to ride my bike anymore or play sports. I’ve played sports all my life. But something amazing happened: the SheUntamed ladies reached out to me with so much love and support. I was surprised to learn that several of them live with heart conditions. Their stories comforted and inspired me, proof that nothing can stop you from doing what you love.
I was even more shocked and incredibly grateful to be selected for the Cape Epic despite what I’d been through. Absa believed that I could not be tamed, that I am SheUntamed. That experience taught me a powerful lesson that I hope to share with other athletes: (1) listen to your body. It’s not weakness to stop, it’s wisdom, (2) put in the work “rather be prepared for an opportunity and not have one, than to have an opportunity and not be prepared” and (3) There is power in sisterhood. So this for me is more than just a race. It’s a platform to share stories of strength, vulnerability, and the power of perseverance.
Thanks to SheUntamed, I discovered the power of structured training. I truly thrive with structure, and I’m grateful for that introduction. It keeps me focused, helps track progress, and makes it easier to stay consistent.
In preparation for the 2025 Cape Epic, I was coached by Phillimon Sebona, an incredible coach who consistently followed up, made time to ride with me, monitored my progress, and offered valuable advice in many areas.
Unfortunately, soon after the Epic, the SheUntamed coaching program came to an end, and I found myself without a coach.
Still motivated and more determined than ever after the Epic, I attempted to create some structure by reloading my previous training plan on TrainingPeaks. However, without proper experience in coaching or using TP, I quickly became fatigued and overwhelmed. What was I thinking!
Realizing I needed proper guidance, I decided to seek out a new coach and once again the SheUntamed community came through and ultimately chose Samantha Sanders. We’ve been working together well and it’s been a great experience. She’s an excellent coach who provides quick feedback and clear advice. Together, we’ve set some exciting goals, including the Cape Epic, and, more broadly, becoming a well-structured and disciplined cyclist.
