What an unforgettable experience! The Absa Cape Epic 2025 brought together cyclists from across the globe to conquer one of the toughest mountain bike races in the world, and we were there, supporting them every pedal of the way. From the race villages to the rugged trails, our team was right in the heart of the action, cheering on our riders and proudly highlighting the incredible work we’re doing with rural children in the Western Cape.
This year marked the 12th year the Anna Foundation’s had the privilege to be part of this world-renowned mountain biking event. From heartwarming welcome cards to an exciting play park for children, our involvement this year was a testament to the power of sport, education, and community upliftment.
Play Park Brings Smiles at the Absa Cape Epic
One of the biggest highlights this year was the Anna Foundation Play Park, a dedicated space for children at the race village during the final three days of the event. Despite some rainy weather, the area was filled with laughter as kids enjoyed face painting, soft play equipment, a reading and colouring corner, and a jumping castle. The Play Park provided a safe and fun environment for children while parents and spectators soaked up the atmosphere of the world’s premier mountain bike stage race.
Inspiring Future Cyclists
For the Anna Foundation’s young learners, watching professional riders tackle the challenging Cape Epic routes was a powerful experience. Many children, who are part of the foundation’s 3R’s Programme (Reading, Running, and Right-ing), were thrilled to see world-class athletes up close.
To add a personal touch, the children handmade welcome cards for all 1,450 Cape Epic riders, each featuring a colourful drawing, an encouraging message, and a QR code linking to the foundation. Many riders shared their appreciation on social media, further spreading awareness of the Anna Foundation’s work.
Fundraising and Community Support
The Cape Epic was also a key fundraising opportunity. The foundation’s “Spin-to-Win-or-Donate” activation stand at the Meerendal, Fairview, and Lourensford race villages engaged spectators while raising essential funds. Additionally, Team Trial Lawyers 4 Anna Fdn, represented by Ryan Baker and Tigran Guledjian, took on the grueling challenge in support of the cause, helping to secure private donations.
Bikes for a Brighter Future
This year’s event also saw significant collaborations that directly benefited the foundation’s learners. Crisis Response Network (CRN) donated 40 boxes of food, helping to support children in rural communities.
Meanwhile, the IRONMAN Foundation, Absa Cape Epic, and Avalanche Bicycles donated 49 bicycles, giving young riders the opportunity to participate in their own “Mini Absa Cape Epic” at Polkadraai Bike Park. The children even got to ride alongside mountain biking legend Hans Becking, making for an unforgettable experience.
As the foundation looks ahead, the focus remains on empowering rural children through sport, education, and life skills—one pedal stroke at a time.
Looking forward
As we wrap up another successful year at the Absa Cape Epic, we reflect on how grateful we are for this continued partnership. The Cape Epic provides us with a unique platform to share our mission with a global audience, and we are already looking forward to future collaborations.
Thank you to the Cape Epic team for having us again this year, and thank you to all who supported the Anna Foundation throughout this unforgettable journey. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of children, one ride at a time!
We have several team entries available for the 2026 Absa Cape Epic event! If you are considering checking this epic adventure off your bucket list, choose to make your ride more meaningful by riding in support of education in the winelands and get in touch by emailing Carla Briers, Anna Foundation Marketing and Communications manager here or call 021 885 1922.