Working as media on an event can be hard arduous work, but as media you’re generally plugged into much of the peripheral information outside of the race hype. As such our deputy editor and lensman became privy to the curious interactions between two epic legends, Christoph Sauser and Stefan Sahm, who provided us with a TREAD exclusive today of their intention to contest an ABSA Cape Epic titile in 2017. – By Dino Lloyd
Photo: Dino Lloyd
So from your discussions it seems clear you’ve made a decision, care to elaborate?
CS: Sure, I’ve taken some time off and now that Karl Platt has equalled my record five wins I now have the goal of six wins. Besides, six is an even number.
SS: I thought I’d be happier taking it easy, but truly, I was more tired after every stage this year than any other year. The media work is demanding.
Why the partnership?
CS: Well it’s actually an obvious choice, Jaro is so focussed on cross country and after the Olympics he might retire. James Reid was a consideration, but while he has a taste for mountain biking he is still a bit young.
SS: The new Bulls setup is such a tight unit already, plus partnering up with Susi means we’ll have a complete focus on what we need. I’ll miss Vincent Durrant’s contributions and calmness but we’ll always be friends.
Photo: Dino Lloyd
What about a second team and support structure?
CS: Well as you know, James Reid and Gert Heyns had to team up at the last minute. Despite the problems they had they have the potential to be a formidable addition that could well with us.
SS: I agree with Susi, James and Gert are strong riders, as long I’m able to race I’m happy.
There’s a lot of sponsors and bike brands involved, how will all this be accommodated?
CS: Obviously there will need to be compromises, but as long as everyone has the same clear goal in mind I don’t really foresee a problem.
SS: Ag we’ll keep similar stock of spares, the Bulls bikes are pretty reliable, clearly we can’t use the e-bike though (laughs)
Photo: Dino Lloyd
Ok so you’re both confident that everything will come together, what about yourselves as team mates?
CS: Well you know the Epic is about consistency, it’s also about adaptability. I’ve adapted from being a downhill racer, to cross country, to marathon and stage racing. Stefan and I speak the same language and it’ll be good to team up with a former pro.
SS: Like Christoph had said, we speak the same languange. We’re both used racing at the high end and winning. Plus we both have a hunger to race again.
Photo: Dino Lloyd
What experiences will be motivating you both going into the 2017 ABSA Cape Epic?
CS: Obviously the motivation for a sixth title, but more than that, the inspiration of my www.songo.info kids from Kayamandi, they are a real inspiration. Also this year’s Epic with Sipho Madalo, I’m truly proud of him and enjoyed our race together.
SS: Just to race again and compete for the win. My Sahmurai Sword has actually taken up so much riding time, it’ll be nice to focus on just riding for a change. This year was difficult with the e-bike and camera, I’d ride all day and then still have to work in the media centre afterwards, it was really tiring. Plus I wont be in the way of any camera shots.
Good luck guys, we’re sure everyone will be watching with interest.
CS: Ja for sure, cheers. See you on the trail.
SS: Thank you, we look forward to it.
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