The Cape Epic is living up to its name so far. The first two days were a rough introduction to the terrain and intense heat for most, and the fallout rate high on the first couple of stages.

If I thought it was hot on day one, then the second day raised the bar. The temperature reached 45 degrees and when even the local riders, supposedly used to such heat are complaining, then you know it’s tough.

Somehow I seem to be coping with the heat, hydration is key and popping Nuun/Zym tablets in each bottle and stocking up on Mule Bars at each feed station has been working well so far. Even so, there have been several comedy moments occurring at several unofficial water stops; streams, rivers and random taps with riders flocking to cool themselves down.

After the first day, the second stage was a complete contrast. Gone were the long fireroads and jeeptracks and instead a course that was mostly singletrack. Some manmade and some natural, it made for a lot more enjoyable day in the saddle and demonstrated just how good the riding in South Africa really is.

Full results and more photos at www.cape-epic.com/live