Karl Platt wins Columbia Grape Escape first stage

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Friday, 04 March 2011 15:56

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German Platt outsprints Evans

Karl Platt (Bulls) won the first stage of the inaugural Columbia Grape Escape today in a nail-biting finish. Hot on his heels was Kevin Evans , followed by team mate David George (both Team 360life).

Hannele Steyn-Kotze (Attix5 Ladies) was the first female to cross the finish, followed by Cherise Taylor (USN).

Winner of the 2010 Absa Cape Epic, Platt had the following to say about today’s race conditions: “Its Africa, it’s hot.” The German is nonetheless quietly hoping for a win. “I’d like to try and keep the leader’s position. If I have the opportunity, I’d like to win the Columbia Grape Escape.”

Approximately 730 mountain bikers departed from Eden on the Bay this morning, traversing an 85km route to Nelson Wine Estate just outside Wellington.

“It’s hot with a capital H. We started at Eden on the Bay this morning in what can only be described as ideal conditions, with Table Mountain as the backdrop. What would normally be considered a stunning day in the Cape has however been tough on the riders, who have been experiencing temperatures in the vicinity of 43’C,” commented CEO of the Cape Town Cycle Tour Trust, David Bellairs.

MD of Columbia Sportswear, Pieter Strobos, is also participating in the Grape Escape. “This is going to become one of the must-do events on the MTB calendar. Today was hot, but the route is well marked and the water points are great. I’m ready for tomorrow’s second stage.

Stage 1 – Race Results

Men:

1^st - Karl Platt (03:03:04)

2 ^nd - Kevin Evans (03:03:04)

3^rd - David George (03:03:11)

Women:

1^st - Hannele Steyn-Kotze (03:32:40)

2^nd - Cherise Taylor (03:35:51)

3^rd – Hanlie Booyens (03:53:05)