When former middle-distance running stars Michael Meyer and Hans van der Veen crossed the finish line at the 2025 Absa Cape Epic, they weren’t just celebrating the completion of one of the world’s most challenging mountain bike stage races—they were demonstrating the power of resilience, teamwork, and the drive to push beyond familiar limits.
The eight-day event, which concluded on Sunday, 23 March, at Lourensford in Somerset West, is a gruelling test of endurance, skill, and mental fortitude. For these two legendary athletes, it marked the next chapter in their pursuit of excellence.
Meyer, the founder and managing director of Stillwater Sports, is well-known for being the visionary behind the Absa Run Your City Series, a collection of popular mass participation 10km races across South Africa’s major cities.
Van der Veen, at 59, is a name etched in South African athletics history, still holding two junior middle-distance records and once running a sub-four-minute mile (3:58) in 1985.
Meyer and Van der Veen’s paths first crossed when they were still schoolboys in George and Oudtshoorn respectively as they competed on the track, but in 2025, they teamed up for the Absa Cape Epic, competing in the Grand Masters category as team “Absa RYC.”
Reflecting on their adventure, Meyer said, “Taking on the Absa Cape Epic was a natural progression for us. Our shared history in athletics has always been about pushing boundaries, and this race offered a new challenge that tested our endurance and teamwork.”
Van der Veen echoed this sentiment, adding, “The transition from track to trail was invigorating. The camaraderie among participants and the stunning landscapes made every gruelling stage worthwhile.”
Their decision to tackle the race was more than just about competing; it was a testament to their shared belief in continuous personal growth and embracing new challenges. Both Meyer and van der Veen have always been known for their commitment to physical fitness, but the Cape Epic provided them with an entirely new way to apply their athletic prowess. From navigating difficult terrain to managing fatigue, they were reminded of the importance of perseverance, not only in competition but in life.
The Absa Cape Epic, renowned for its breathtaking scenery and elite-level competition, was the perfect stage for Meyer and van der Veen to showcase their remarkable journey.
Their success reflects their unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of their own capabilities, and creating opportunities for others, proving that no matter where you start, the pursuit of greatness is limitless.
To hear more about their journey, watch their inspiring story below:
