It’s hard to believe that 2024 marks two decades of the Absa Cape Epic. In the blink of an eye, twenty years have passed, and the race has grown from strength to strength and is now one of the premier tests of endurance on the planet, writes Geoffrey Lee, Chief Executive Officer Product Solutions Cluster, Absa Group Limited.

While the proverbial highlights reel is exhaustive, a huge point of pride for all associated with the Absa Cape Epic is the award-winning #SheUntamed initiative. Launched in 2019 to promote women participation in the race that measures all, #SheUntamed embodies Absa's commitment to empowering women, fostering inclusivity and breaking down barriers within the cycling realm. This year, Absa set the bold goal of assembling 20 all-women teams as part of Team Absa, and we are also dedicating a session of the Epic Trippers to women riders.

Our ambition to being an active force for good in society doesn’t stop there. Together with the official charity partner of the Absa Cape Epic, ILoveBoobies, we are providing over 1 000 free breast examinations to South African women during the course of the Absa cycling race calendar.

Fellow riders, as the world looks to a brighter future after a turbulent few years, the Absa Cape Epic is more relevant than ever. Endurance, performance, balance and self-reliance will be on full display during the race. These skills transcend the sport and are the cornerstone of success in any walk of life.

So, whether you are riding, organising, supporting or simply enjoying the elite performances, pause for a moment and truly ‘take in’ all the excellence that you are about to witness. I encourage you to make the most of the legendary Western Cape hospitality and natural beauty - riders and fans will experience historic and scenic towns in the province, many of them off the beaten tourist track. Since 2004, we have proudly visited 40 towns as part of the race.

From an Absa perspective, as we further embrace a human-centred approach to banking, as evidenced through our reimagined brand and business positioning - ‘Your story matters’ - initiatives like the Absa Cape Epic are the ultimate embodiment of our commitment to making a meaningful contribution in society. We look forward to many more years of continued success.

As we head towards the starting line, I would like to wish you all a safe and fulfilling Absa Cape Epic. I would like to also give a special mention to Hannele Steyn, our last lioness standing. Hannele is the only women who have completed all 19 Absa Cape Epics and is now gearing for her 20^th race.

I look forward to welcoming you all at the start, but more importantly, celebrating with each and every one of you at the finish.

Good luck and enjoy the African sun.