The Absa Cape Epic is about to begin. For Alessandra Keller, a new chapter in her career starts this Sunday, March 15. The Swiss world-class mountain biker will take part in the most prestigious stage race in mountain biking for the first time. Together with South African Candice Lill, she forms the team “Thömus maxon – Sabi Sabi”.
The Absa Cape Epic is considered the “Tour de France of mountain biking”. Over eight days, the race leads through spectacular landscapes between mountains and bush, and ranks among the toughest and most renowned events on the international MTB calendar.
For Alessandra Keller, this is her first participation in this legendary event and at the same time one of her major goals of the season. The Swiss rider has specifically prepared for the demands of a multi-day stage race and has already spent time in South Africa at the beginning of the year. “The Cape Epic is a race I’ve been dreaming about for a long time. The atmosphere, the course and the format make this event unique. I’m really looking forward to taking on this challenge together with Candice Lill,” says Keller.
Experience meets world-class performance
For Alessandra Keller, this is her first participation in this legendary event and at the same time one of her major goals of the season. The Swiss rider has specifically prepared for the demands of a multi-day stage race and has already spent time in South Africa at the beginning of the year. “The Cape Epic is a race I’ve been dreaming about for a long time. The atmosphere, the course and the format make this event unique. I’m really looking forward to taking on this challenge together with Candice Lill,” says Keller.
An additional advantage: both riders use the same equipment. Since the 2026 season, Candice Lill has also been riding Thömus bikes, which further simplifies coordination of setup and equipment.
Eight days of high intensity
The prologue will take place on Sunday, March 15 in Durbanville, before the first stage starts the following day in Montagu. In total, the riders will cover 707 kilometres and 15,900 metres of elevation gain. Fans can follow Alessandra Keller and Candice Lill via the Cape Epic livestreams on YouTube.