Schoeman said she looked forward to her first attempt at the world's premier mountain bike stage race, while partner Stransky would be making his sixth Cape Epic appearance.

"I am nervous and excited at the same time," Schoeman said on Thursday.

"The Cape Epic is one of those events that has to be on anyone that is passionate about cycling's bucket list.

"We are so privileged to have an event of this magnitude right on our doorstep. I've been wanting to do it for a long time."

The multiple Cape Argus Cycle Tour winner said she would address her relative inexperience as a mountain biker by putting in extra hours of training.

"At the moment I am doing a lot of base mileage, but mostly on the road. I have road nationals and Cape Town Cycle Tour before the Cape Epic, but any long hours on my bike will benefit my fitness."

Stransky said there was something about the race that kept him coming back for more punishment.

“The Cape Epic is completely addictive, probably because it is so tough and also because the route changes every year," said the 1995 Rugby World Cup hero.

"It is an opportunity to thoroughly test your body and mind -- more so the mind -- against the harshest terrain. The fact that you endure proper suffering certainly ensures a greater feeling of satisfaction at the finish.”