Kulhavý and Grotts start again at the Cape Epic

Kulhavý, in particular, has always done well in "The Race That Measures All." Of the five starts, the Czech Express has claimed three wins and one second place. "The long-distance events are good for me and I like these multi-stage events," Kulhavý explained after his success in the Untamed African MTB Race.

"The Absa Cape Epic is the queen of stage races and it's also my favorite stage race."

The disappointment of 2019 is still fresh in his memory. After Grotts' withdrawal, Kulhavý was supported by Sam Gaze. However, a crash in the first stage that left the "Kiwi" (nickname for New Zealander) with a concussion meant the pair never really got going. "It's hard to say whether Sam and I would have made a good team or not," Kulhavý reflected. "We didn't really get a chance to try, but I'm convinced of Howie's [Grott's] qualities. He is really strong on the climbs and consistent on the flat stages. That combination was perfect for our attacks two years ago. This year he's also more experienced."

Grott's experience is not just in bike racing. The American experienced a year of personal growth and reflection, which arguably makes him better prepared for the emotional and psychological challenges of the Absa Cape Epic. Grotts explained his retirement from racing in 2019 as follows:

"Last year I experienced burn-out before the season had even really started. So I knew it was time to take a step back and reevaluate my approach to training and racing. I ended up training with the local youth program Durango Devo, and that really helped me rekindle my joy of just riding my bike."

"This year, the Absa Cape Epic will be my biggest race, and the rest will be relatively small in comparison," he continued. "But I'm looking forward to having more time to train and not travel as much. I've also applied to two universities for graduate programs in mathematics. If I were accepted, that would start in the fall."

In 2018, Grotts came into his own as the race progressed. By the time the route crossed Bainskloof into Wellington, he was arguably the strongest rider in the field, even outshining his strong partner. "I think the smoother trails and the amount of climbing worked for me in the second half of the race," Grotts said.

"In the early stages there was a lot of sand and gravel, which is difficult for a smaller guy like me," he added. In 2020, there will again be plenty of sand in the early stages, but the added element will be rocks and stones rather than gravel. These could again be difficult for Grotts, but the two stages in Wellington will suit him perfectly.

During the Absa Cape Epic 2020, the Specialized teams will compete in different jerseys. Kulhavý and Grotts will wear the Ninety One - Songo - Specialized 1 colors, while Annika Langvad and Jenny Rissveds will represent Team 31: Outride. Christoph Sauser and his South African partner, Wessel Botha of NAD Pro MTB, will represent Ninety One - Songo - Specialized 2. However, all teams will still have a link to Sauser's songo.info program as the American bike manufacturer continues its support for the Kayamandi-based education and cycling charity.

"Collaborating with songo.info is a good idea, especially for a big event like the Absa Cape Epic, where we can really help raise funds, " Kulhavý reflected. "I'm glad we can help promote the charity and also serve as a motivator for the kids in the program." For Grotts, the songo.info link is equally important. "Ultimately, my motivation for bike racing has to be intrinsic, but racing to support the songo.info program is definitely one of the most valuable causes," the American emphasized. "Personally, it's very rewarding to see someone discover how great it is to ride a bike."