This year will see Annika Langvad riding with road World Champion and Boels–Dolmans Women’s WorldTour teammate Anna Van De Breggen, in what is likely to be one of the most powerful women’s teams in the history of the Absa Cape Epic. They will ride in the colours of Investec-Songo-Specialized.
In an unfortunate turn of events, American cyclist Howard Grotts, has announced his withdrawal from the 2019 Absa Cape Epic after falling ill over the past couple of weeks. Twice U23 World Champion and Stellenbosch World Cup victor, Sam Gaze, will now be partnering with Jaroslav Kulhavy in defence of the Absa Cape Epic title for Investec-songo-Specialized. “I am obviously disappointed that I won’t be racing with Howie for this year’s Absa Cape Epic,” Kulhavy said from his home in the Czech Republic, as he prepares to fly out to South Africa for the big race, which starts in 10 days in Cape Town. “We had a really good race last year and we were hoping to build on that. But it’s important for Howie to take the time now to recover completely so that he can be healthy for the rest of the season.” “Sam is a super talented rider and I am excited to see what he can do in this type of race. We have been teammates for the past four years so we know each other well. I’m looking forward to the new challenge with Sami in Africa!”
Alan Hatherly will be partnering with fellow South African and training partner, Matt Beers from Team NAD Pro MTB. The
NAD pairing will be racing in support of Kulhavy and Gaze but will also have their eyes on the coveted African Jersey, awarded to the best-placed African team after eight gruelling days of racing.
Finally Christoph Sauser will ride with Simon Andreasson, in the role of mentor. The pair ride for Investec-songo-Specialized with aim of providing Simon with valuable racing experience. With Sauser’s race pedigree and experience and Simon’s talent, they could still provide the field with a few surprises.
Annika Langvad and Jaroslav Kulhavy will be riding striking custom-painted S-Works Epic frames, equipped with SRAM’s range topping XX1 Eagle 12 speed drivetrain, and ultra lightweight and strong Roval Control SL 29 148 wheels. Suspension will be taken care of by the race ready 100mm RockShox SID WC fork with Brain Technology paired with the RockShox Brain shock. This bike is perfectly equipped to handle everything the Absa Cape Epic can throw at it.
In support of songo.info, Specialized will once again be donating both Annika Langvad and Jaroslav Kulhavy’s custom painted S-Works Epic race bikes, as ridden in the 2019 Absa Cape Epic to raise funds for the charity.
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