Third stage win for Keller and Lill at the Cape Epic
Another strong performance from Alessandra Keller and Candice Lill at the Absa Cape Epic: the duo from «Team Thömus maxon – Sabi Sabi» have also won the second stage, securing their third stage victory of the race so far.
The stage around Montagu covered 80 kilometres and 1,750 metres of elevation gain and once again presented the riders with major challenges in the form of long climbs and fast sections. Compared to the previous day, the route was less technical but required clever race management and tactical skill.
Keller and Lill started the race in a controlled manner and initially stayed with the group of favourites. Over the first few kilometres, they left the work of leading the race to their rivals, thereby saving valuable energy.
Stage perfectly planned
“The course wasn’t as technical today as it was yesterday, but I enjoyed every minute of it. We were able to save energy at the start because our pursuers were setting the pace. We were then able to use those reserves for our decisive attack and finally break away,” explained Keller at the finish.
Finishing 37 seconds ahead of the runners-up, Courtney and Seiwald (USA/ITA), Keller and Lill once again demonstrated their excellent form and superb teamwork.
In the overall standings, Keller and Lill now lead Courtney and Seiwald by 3 minutes and 31 seconds, and Moschetti and Peretti (FRA/ITA) by 25 minutes and 3 seconds.
The next challenge awaits
Following the first few intense days of racing, the peloton will leave Montagu tomorrow and tackle the next stage. The riders face a demanding route covering 108 kilometres and 1,450 metres of climbing towards Greyton.
With three consecutive victories, Keller and Lill have put themselves in an excellent position. However, the upcoming stages promise further challenges, in which consistency, teamwork and race management will remain crucial.