The 10th edition of the Absa Cape Epic takes place from the 17 to 24 March 2013, and will once again see riders battle the natural elements of South Africa’s harsh mountain biking terrain.

Up for grabs is a prize purse of R1 million  - the largest purse in the world of endurance mountain biking.

The untamed African mountain bike stage race will see cyclists complete 698 km of intense cycling and 15 650m of climbing, starting the Prologue at Meerendal Wine Estate in Durbanville and finishing at the traditional Lourensford Wine Estate.

The Prologue, a common feature in grand road cycling tours, will allow enthusiasts to see teams race against the clock and each other at the Meerendal Wine Estate on the first day of the race.

Lourensford Wine Estate will once again host the finish and the Grand Finale celebrations on 24 March 2013. The Grand Finale will include the Liqui-Fruit Cape Times Vineyard Races (http://www.vineyard-races.co.za/vr/), live entertainment, a farmer’s market, delectable food and wine as well as glorious scenery. Absa Cape Epic vantage points will be accessible to the general public so that all can enjoy the mountain biking action. There will also be a Spur Kids Zone offering fun activities such as a cycling race, jumping castles, games, face painting and more. Entrance is free.

Adventure enthusiasts not participating in the Absa Cape Epic are invited to enter the the Liqui Fruit Cape Times Vineyard Races, which consist of the Vineyard Ride and Vineyard Run. The races promise participants breathtaking scenery and spectacular terrain. The Vineyard Run offers a fun run (6km) and a trail run (15km) and the Vineyard Ride offers a 28 km and 55km race. Interested riders can register online at www.vineyardraces.co.za.  Closing date for entries is 1 March or when entries sell out.