With Pace

When Kevin Vermaak left his job in IT to found a brand-new type of bike race, he had no idea how much money he’d lose up front or how successful the resulting event would become. 20 years in, and the Cape Epic is one of the most famous bike races in the world. After leaving it behind in 2016, Kevin began mulling over a new idea — a gravel stage race that explored a completely different part of South Africa. This year, he launched Gravel Burn, a seven-day event in the Great Karoo. It took years for Cape Epic to grow into what it is today, but Gravel Burn attracted some pretty fierce competition from year one, including Tom Pidcock, Ashleigh Moolman-Pasio, Matt Beers, and Lauren Stephens. In this episode, Kevin tells Payson about how a series of globe-trotting adventures in the early 2000s inspired him to start the Cape Epic, why he thinks Gravel Burn has the potential to be even bigger, and the logistics of planning such a remote, multi-day event. He talks about the things he hopes to do better next year, why he’s actually glad that the infamous stage six of the race had to be neutralized, and why he needed nearly twice as many staff members as there were race participants in order to pull the whole thing off.This episode was brought to you by TrainingPeaks and Osprey. Instagram: @withpacepodcastYouTube: Payson McElveen Email: howdy@withpace.cc

Scott Bowden set out two weeks ago to tackle a 580km route across Tasmania. His goal was to beat Payson’s FKT from 2021, but most importantly, he just wanted to finish. With 11,000 meters of elevation, multiple river crossings, all types of weather, and punishing terrain, the route is brutal to say the least, and when Scott found himself struggling to keep his body temperature, he thought about pulling the plug. In the end, he did finish, and he joins Payson to swap war stories. Before discussing the ride, however, they talk about how Scott got there in the first place. He began his cycling career in XC, and even competed in the Olympics in 2016. After transitioning to pro road racing in Europe, however, his career was cut short by several factors caused by the pandemic. After moving back home to Tassie, he started a new chapter, both on the bike and off. This episode is brought to you by MAAP, TrainingPeaks, and Osprey. Watch Payson's new film Crossings: New Zealand here.Watch Crossing Tasmania here. Instagram: @withpacepodcastYouTube: Payson McElveen Email: howdy@withpace.cc

Leni Carrillo, a self-proclaimed "gravel normie" from San Antonio, Texas is the genius behind the HolySpiritofGravel meme account on Instagram. With her lighthearted and extremely specific takes on the world of gravel racing, she brings some much needed levity to a sport that can take itself pretty seriously. In doing so, she's earned a passionate fanbase. Payson caught up with Leni for a little spin and chat the day before the final round of the Life Time Grand Prix, the Big Sugar Classic, to talk about how she got interested in gravel racing, where she gets her best ideas, and what she really thinks about the pros.You can watch this conversation on Youtube here.This episode is sponsored by TrainingPeaks. Go to trainingpeaks.com/withpace and use code CYBER2025 to get 25% off TrainingPeaks Premium before December 1. Instagram: @withpacepodcastYouTube: Payson McElveen Email: howdy@withpace.cc

This week on the show, Payson sits down with Sarah Sturm to talk about the roster for 2026’s Life Time Grand Prix, which was released last week and contained more surprises than all the previous years combined. Payson and Sarah chat about the lengthy list of brand-new riders, the heartbreak and shock of seeing one of the most promising young racers of the past few years shut out of the series completely, and what they think about the controversial changes to the prize money. But first, they talk about why Sarah decided to return to the Grand Prix after a year away and what she’s been getting up to during the off season. This episode is sponsored by TrainingPeaks. Go to trainingpeaks.com/withpace and use code CYBER2025 to get 25% off TrainingPeaks Premium. Listen to Sarah's podcast, Talking Over You on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.Instagram: @withpacepodcastYouTube: Payson McElveen Email: howdy@withpace.cc

Bradyn Lange, a professional cyclist and media rider at Gravel Burn, and Dan Craven, a former pro racer from Namibia and the event's lead moto, discuss the exhilarating chaos of the inaugural Gravel Burn. Bradyn shares his insights from racing sidelined by illness, capturing in-race media. Dan highlights his diverse racing journey, local terrain comparisons, and the adventure ethos that defines the event. They delve into the wild challenges of the course, unique safety considerations, and the vibrant camaraderie among riders, encouraging listeners to explore Namibian bike culture.

Hayley Preen, a top South African cyclist and gravel racer, joins to reflect on a chaotic Stage 6 of Gravel Burn. Strong winds led to a neutralization after a crash involving Swiss rider Andri Frischknecht, prompting discussions on challenging conditions and the emotional impact of the race. Hayley shares insights on the treacherous terrain, her current standing in the general classification, and anticipations for the final stage. She also highlights the unique experience of Gravel Burn and the vibrant wildlife encountered during the race.

Tom Pidcock, a professional multi-discipline cyclist, joins to share his excitement after winning Stage 5 of Gravel Burn. He discusses the challenges of the 2500-foot climb and why he took a break from his off-season for this adventure. Tom also recaps his recent double-header at Il Lombardia and UCI Gravel Worlds, explaining the logistics and race choices involved. He shares fun anecdotes about camping and wildlife encounters during the race, highlighting the unique challenges and thrills of gravel cycling.

Lukas Baum, a professional off-road racer and co-founder of Speed Company, and Georg Egger, his racing partner and co-founder, share their thrilling journey in the world of gravel racing. They discuss the strategic maneuvers that shook up the Gravel Burn stage and the impact of a costly flat tire on Lukas's standings. The duo reflects on their grassroots beginnings, the allure of stage races, and their memorable Cape Epic victory. Lukas also candidly critiques American gravel while revealing insights from their tactical playbook during grueling crosswinds.

Simon Pellaud, a professional cyclist known for his versatility across road, gravel, and mountain-bike events, shares his insights after winning Stage 3 of Gravel Burn. He recounts the emotional impact of witnessing a crash during the race and how it affected his focus. Simon discusses his reasons for racing in multiple disciplines this year and reflects on the tactical moves that secured his stage win. He humorously addresses his consistent second-place finishes and reveals his exciting plans for the next season.

Haley Smith, a professional off-road cyclist and stage racing expert, joins to recap her thrilling experience at Gravel Burn stage 2. She shares her excitement about racing alongside WorldTour pros and reflects on a challenging year as she rebuilt her fitness after long COVID. Haley details the dramatic final sprint for third and the rugged terrain of the Karoo. They discuss the tight competition in the women's field, stage racing tactics, and the growing prize money in off-road events, highlighting the evolution of the sport.