The Absa Cape Epic has now passed the halfway point, and teams are starting to adjust their race plans. Stage four, around the Greyton area, was shorter than the previous 140 km stage, covering 87 km. However, it was still very demanding, with several tough climbs and little time to recover.
Mark Bonnici and Luke Borg from Epic Team Deloitte were once again the first Maltese team to finish, completing the stage in 4:58:57.
Borg said the stage was still challenging but easier than the day before. Better weather and sunshine towards the end also helped lift their spirits as they continue to recover from recent illness.
He said it was a beautiful stage with rolling hills. Although shorter, it had more climbing than the previous day but felt like a small break overall.
Team Gaudos, made up of Stephen Grima and Brandon Sultana, finished in 5:04:24. They described it as a true mountain biking stage with great trails, plenty of climbs and descents, and some muddy sections.
Grima said the stage was shorter but still tough. He added that the team is focused on staying consistent and finishing the race rather than just chasing positions.
He said the main goal is to cross the finish line and earn the medal.
The team is also aiming to join the Amabubesi Finisher Club, which is for riders who have completed the Absa Cape Epic at least three times. The name means pride of lions and members receive a special medal, certificate, and access to a dedicated area at the finish.
Grima said this is a long term goal and they hope to become the first Maltese team to achieve it.
Team Kalamba Racing, made up of Etienne Bonello and Marie Claire Aquilina, also delivered a strong and controlled performance. The stage started quickly, with riders pushing hard through dusty conditions.
The route combined fast sections with very steep climbs, including a difficult section known as the UFO climb.
The team made a smart tactical decision to skip the final feed zone to gain time on a nearby rival. They finished 21st on the stage and remain 22nd overall.
Bonello said staying positive was very important, and he used his experience from last year to keep encouraging his teammate throughout the race.
Attention now turns to the Queen Stage, which is expected to be the toughest part of the race. Riders will face a 134 km route from Greyton to Stellenbosch, with 2,750 metres of climbing.
Although this stage offered a chance to recover slightly, teams will need to be ready for another very demanding day.
Epic Team Deloitte (Luke Borg & Mark Bonnici) is sponsored by Deloitte with additional support from Foster Clark Products, Akkura, Visit Malta with further support from , Nduranz, The Cyclist and Wheel Wizard.
Team Gaudos (Stephen Grima & Brandon Sultana) are supported by Extra Karte, Visit Malta, SG Woodworks Ltd, Raico, National Gypsum Limited Malta, Wurth Malta, Pitre Hardware, Lourdes Opticians, JV Pharma, A. Caruana Enterprises Ltd and Xlendi Supermarket.
Team Kalamba Racing (Etienne Bonello & Marie Claire Aquilina) are sponsored by Kalamba Games, with further support from Garmin and Visit Malta. Technical partners include 226ERS, Ascend Creative Studio, BBB Cycling, IDMatch Bikefit Lab, The Sports Medics, Tristar Travel, and Würth.
