Standing Alongside CANSA at the Untamed African MTB Race
Cape Town, South Africa – March 2026
The Absa Cape Epic 2026 once again delivered a world-class test of endurance, resilience and human performance across the rugged landscapes of the Western Cape. Known globally as the “Untamed African MTB Race,” this iconic eight-day stage race pushes both elite and amateur riders to their limits through extreme terrain, relentless climbs and unpredictable conditions.
This year’s event opened with a demanding Prologue in Durbanville, where temperatures soared close to 40°C — a powerful reminder from day one that this race is as much about managing the environment as it is about physical performance.
A Week of Grit, Strategy and World-Class Racing
From the start, the competition was intense.
South African duo Matt Beers and Tristan Nortje set the early pace with a strong Prologue performance, while subsequent stages delivered mechanical drama, tactical attacks and constant shifts in momentum.
Standout performances included a decisive Stage 2 victory by Sam Gaze and Luca Schwarzbauer, highlighting the strategic depth of the field.
In the women’s race, Candice Lill and Alessandra Keller established control early and never let it go — combining strength, consistency and smart racing to dominate the general classification.
As the race unfolded, the battle for the men’s title came down to the wire. In a thrilling finale, Beers and Nortjecompleted a comeback to secure the 2026 Absa Cape Epic Elite Men’s title, while Lill and Keller sealed a commanding victory in the Elite Women’s category.
Racing in Extreme Conditions
The Cape Epic is defined not only by terrain and competition, but by the environment itself.
Riders spend hours each day exposed to intense African sun, high temperatures and reflective surfaces. From the opening Prologue to the final stage, UV exposure is constant and cumulative.
It’s a critical but often overlooked factor in endurance sport:
skin protection is performance protection.
Ocean Freedom x CANSA: On-the-Ground Support
In partnership with the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), Ocean Freedom was proud to support rider wellbeing throughout the race.
At key water points and aid stations, riders had access to:
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen for ongoing UV protection
- Anti-chafe balm to support comfort over long hours in the saddle
By meeting athletes where it mattered most — mid-stage, under pressure — we ensured protection was always within reach.
Together with CANSA, this initiative reinforced a shared mission: raising awareness around skin health while delivering practical support in a high-performance environment.
Protection Is Part of Performance
The Absa Cape Epic represents the pinnacle of endurance sport — where preparation, resilience and support systems all play a role in success.
Our partnership with CANSA is built on a simple belief:
Protection is part of performance.
As riders crossed the finish line after eight relentless days, their journey reflected not only physical strength, but the importance of looking after their bodies in every condition.
Looking Ahead
As the 2026 race concludes, Ocean Freedom remains committed to supporting athletes who push their limits in extreme environments.
Because whether on the mountain, in the ocean, or on the trail
endurance should never come at the cost of your skin.
