"I've wanted to take part in the Cape Epic ever since I first heard about it," says Cadel Evans, the 2011 Tour de France winner. Evans can now fulfill his wish on 19 March. His partner is no unknown quantity either: American George Hincapie finished the Tour de France a total of 17 times during his 19-year career as a professional cyclist. As his teammate at BMC, he also helped Evans to win the Tour in 2011.

The two are a perfect match and despite the duo starting in the Masters category, Evans is exercising restraint: "I may be a racing cyclist, but we are competing against far more experienced mountain bikers in this tough race. So we have to be realistic. If George and I harmonize well and no major mishaps happen to us, that would be great."

After all, Cadel Evans was once one of the world's best cross-country riders and can therefore draw on some experience. George Hincapie, on the other hand, is often out and about on his mountain bike. As far as off-road racing is concerned, however, he is a "greenhorn". When asked why he chose the Cape Epic of all things, he laughs and says that Evans talked him into this adventure.

Only a premiere would not be enough for either of them. For both Hincapie and Evans, it is not only the first time that they have competed in a race as a team of two. It is also the first time for both of them to visit South Africa. The only hope for the once successful roadies is that, despite the exertions, they can also enjoy the magnificent scenery around the tough stages.

www.cape-epic.com