After 20 successful years, Christoph Sauser ended his career in late 2015. Anyone thinking that the cyclist from Sigriswil has since put his feet up would be mistaken. In fact, this year he narrowly missed a sixth victory at the Cape Epic!  

You ended your career well over a year ago now, but once again you’ve figured among the leaders in this most eminent of mountain bike races. In your view, what are the most important factors that have once again brought you so far after ending your career and which contribute to success?  

Definitely, great passion and the challenge of wanting to win the Cape Epic once again. My one-year break helped a lot in this, as I was able to recharge my batteries and motivation. It was also motivating to cycle seriously with "my" training group in Stellenbosch.

Furthermore, it was also important for me to motivate our kids for my South African foundation songo.info, to raise awareness and keep our sponsors happy.

You can look back on a long career and you witnessed and shaped its development. How have demands on cyclists and equipment changed over time?  

The wheels have got bigger, the handlebars wider! If I compare pictures of my first Cape Epic years with today, it is the visual changes which stand out. In addition, today I cycle a gear ratio with only one chain ring at the front and 12 gears at the back, as well as Specialized Brain suspension at front and rear, which automatically locks and unlocks itself.

Your speciality was marathons. What are your three most important training tips for (amateur) mountain bikers wanting to compete in a marathon this year?

Work on your weaknesses, make the training varied and go with the weather, not against it!

In longer races, meals play an increasingly important role. Can you explain to us what you ate and drank during each of your cycling marathons?

For each breakfast, there’s porridge with Nutella. 45 minutes before the race start, Sponser Activator and, during the race, Sponser Oat Bars, Sponser Long Energy Gels and Sponser Long Energy Drink Mix (5 % protein). Straight after the race I have a recovery drink.

Foto: ZVG