races that will help for the epic.

[flyluis]

hi guys.

 

any suggestions on what races to look out for while im getting ready for my first epic next year?

 

thanks!!

[timM]

hi guys.

 

any suggestions on what races to look out for while im getting ready for my first epic next year?

 

thanks!!

The Attakwas will give you a good idea of what a tough stage will feel like!

[Danger Dassie]

I dunno, rather do specific rides to replicate a couple stages in distance/time, think those would help more with the mental aspect. events that don't give you any pre-conceived ideas. Because once you start, it can be a shock to the system.

Could well be wrong in that approach, just going on what worked for me, although we all have different approaches.

Are you going for a result?

[flyluis]

Well we don't wanna just finish, would like to do it in a good time. Yes we will replicate the distance and climbing as much as possible but always nice to do it with that race day feel. Not sure if you get what I'm saying....

Thanks!!

[Shebeen]

hi guys.

 

any suggestions on what races to look out for while im getting ready for my first epic next year?

 

thanks!!

white guys mostly, but in a range of languages.

[Agteros]

white guys mostly, but in a range of languages.

suicide bomber fodder?

[janneman72]

I would say, start with 3 day stage races easiest to difficult if you haven't done any stages races yet like (easy to difficult):

1. Sani2C
   
2. mankele
   
3. W2W
   
4. GR300
   

 

Then go to easier but longer stage races: KKK (5 days), Joburg2C, maybe the Cape Pioneer if you want to practice racing.

Also add a lot of long road training and 3x spinning classes for endurance, cadence and strength purposes eg. kremetart, jock etc

Just a suggestion.

[Gerhardc]

A bit late, seeing that it's done for the year, but apparently the ULTRA LIONMAN at Mabalingwe!!

[flyluis]

thanks guys!!

[V12man]

Try this - 4 days of being on the actual route.

 

http://www.daytrippers.co.za/cape-epic-training-rides.php

 

A good investment for a first epic.

[G-Unit]

Do as many ultras as you can. For me learning to k@k off for 7+ hours in 1 go was the most important thing.

 

The Sabie ultra this year was murderous and helped with the mental toughness that I think most will agree is the most important thing.

 

IMO the 'standard' 3 day stage races don't really get you to that next level.

[kandui]

No event will prepare you for what you experience at the Epic. You won't be able to replicate the nerves, stress, pressure, intensity of the event. If you've got deep pockets then go and ride Trans Baviaans, Pioneer Trek, W2W and Knysna 300 as a lead up, but you can save yourself a lot of cash by getting used to many hours in the saddle. A lot of base training and once 100km plus, off-road not on tar, doesn't phase you, reduce the hours and focus on intervals. 2 months before Epic go down to 8-10 hours/ week, that's more than enough.

Best thing you can do is get used to your partner's habits and foibles, strengths and weaknesses. Communicate all the time while training, and be man enough to admit when your partner is pushing too hard and you are taking strain.

To go back to your original question: Do the Pioneer.

Edited May 24, 2012 by kandui

[KevinG]

2012 was my first Epic and being your first, your nerves will tell you to do more than you really need to. But that's not a bad thing. October/November/December do low intensity long rides. Jan/Feb do higher intensity rides.

If you live in the Cape here are a few suggestions:

W2W is a good starter stage race but a bit early in your training program to give you any indication of fitness level.

Cederberg stage race in January will give you a good indication of how you will handle the heat on the Epic.

Attakwas is an excellent indicator of how you will handle a day of 8 hours. It replicates an average stage of the Epic well.

Knysna 300 is good to test 3 days of proper climbing.

Most important thing while training: Always have fun. As soon as you loose the fun factor you will find it harder to motivate yourself to train. So make your rides enjoyable, interesting and varied. Try train at different locations.

Good luck and enjoy. It will be one of your most rewarding achievements.

[Carmichael]

I am just adding this: amarider 100 miler, trans baviaans, w2w , knysna 300, attakwas. maybe karoo to coast