The Swiss combination of Barti Bücher and Esther Süss won this category. Kleinhans and Lüthi finished the 707km from Tokai in Cape Town to Lourensford in Somerset West in 34 hours, 52 minutes and 27 seconds; just less than an hour after the Swiss duo. “To win the stage is just unbelievable. We worked so hard the whole week and we could see that we are getting closer every day,” said Kleinhans. It was a cat and mouse battle for the stage victory Kleinhans said. “We passed them after founding some rhythm and then they caught us again. We didn’t stop at the water point while they did so then we took the lead again. They got to us again, but it was with the portage section where we ran away from them! Then it was just full gas to the finish.” Kleinhans has had his fair share of Epic experiences, but it was Lüthi’s first bite at the apple. Like always she was just smiling the whole time.
The joy of winning the stage and finishing this gruelling race apparent on her face. For Kleinhans this was the best Epic ever. “Everything about it was just amazing. I enjoyed the routes and the race in general. The Epic is getting better every year,” said Kleinhans. “It was nice to be part of the race in this way for a change and not only to make up the numbers. There is always a goal when riding in the Epic, but this time I had a podium goal in mind. Riding with Ariane was great.” And yes. Kleinhans and Lüthi are still getting married this Saturday. Not even the world’s most gruelling mountain bike race could stop that!
