Advertising agency to ride Absa Cape epic for client

The legendary mountain bike stage race will take place from 23 to 30 March 2014.

Kruger, the owner of an advertising agency and his partner Buter, an advertising executive for the same agency anticipate that the 2014 race will be tough.

The route, which changes significantly each year, will direct 1 200 riders over 14 850m of climbing and across 718km of mountain terrain.

Kruger said, “This year’s route will be full of surprises; it’s going to be a challenge. I tend not to pay too much attention to studying the route; I know I have to get through the race anyway.”

Buter, an Absa Cape Epic newbie said he wants to ride for the pleasure of riding and for the team spirit.

“I’m looking forward to making new friends, the mental and physical challenge and for the feeling of freedom,” he said.

“I’ve wanted to ride the Absa Cape Epic ever since I watched Deon and my brother compete in the 2011 event.”

Kruger said he had had no intention of participating in the 2014 event.

“After having done two previous races I had reservations about whether I wanted to put myself through the pain and agony again, but I couldn’t resist the challenge when our client Prominent Paints agreed to sponsor our entry into the race,” he said.

“I believe it’s the sense of achievement that brings back riders to the race every year. There aren’t many events that will top this race when it comes to dishing out the pain, but when you finish successfully, you’ll want to come back and top your last achievement.”

Kruger said there was no one single element that could ensure a successful race; however, both Kruger and Buter consider having the right partner as an essential.

Buter said, “I think enjoyment and partnership are the two most important aspects for a successful race. If you don’t enjoy the event, even the pain, then the success of finishing the race won’t liberate you.”