Annika Langvad and Kate Courtney join Payson to talk about their experience racing as a team in the 2018 Absa Cape Epic, an eight day stage race in the Western Cape of South Africa spanning over 435 miles. When they teamed up for the race, Annika had won it three years in a row, while Kate was still an up-and-comer on the UCI circuit who had never participated in a stage race, let alone one that has the reputation of being the hardest mountain bike stage race in the world. From the first day, however, they were dominant, and went on to win the overall by 46 minutes. 

In this interview, they talk about their different levels of experience going into the Cape Epic, and how they managed to solidify their team dynamic from the first stage. They talk about mechanical mishaps, brutal press conferences, and their favorite memories from those eight days in the desert. They also talk about Annika’s recent transition to retirement and how she managed to complete a dentistry degree while competing as one of the top mountain bikers in the world. Kate also talks about preparing for the Olympics and staying sane, thanks to her dog, Monty. 

Instagram: @withpacepod
YouTube: Payson McElveen