The 2026 Absa Cape Epic couldn't have started much better for South African MTB fans. There are 3 SAFFAs in the 4 elite 'd the 22nd edition with a stage win. Candice Lill and her Swiss teammate, Alessandra Keller, stormed into the lead on the opening day too, but both races remain finely poised heading into the first marathon day, Stage 1, in Montagu.